Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most people are recommended to have their wisdom teeth removed during their young adult years, because there is usually not enough space in the mouth for wisdom teeth to fit. Wisdom tooth removal is just one of many services we offer at Hale Family Dental.
Why is it necessary?
Wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. A common reason to have wisdom teeth removed is if they become impacted, which means they are trapped under the gum surface and can’t erupt, which can be painful. Other reasons to have them removed are:
there is not enough space in your mouth for them
they are causing cavities or gum disease
they are developing at a wrong angle
What is the procedure?
A wisdom tooth extraction should take about 45 minutes or less. Your oral surgeon will give you a local anesthetic to numb your mouth. You can also choose to have IV sedation to help you relax, general anesthesia to put you to sleep, or both.
If your wisdom teeth are visible, your oral surgeon will loosen the tooth and then use forceps to remove it.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, the surgeon will make a small incision in your gum to get access to the tooth and might need to cut through bone tissue. After removal, he or she will stitch the incision site closed so it heals quickly. They may also place gauze pads around your gums to soak up the blood.
How can I prepare?
Before your extraction procedure, talk to your oral surgeon about:
any health conditions you have
medications you use
questions you have about the procedure
what type of anesthesia you prefer
After the procedure
Plan to rest for the remainder of the day after your surgery and avoid strenuous activity for at least a week. Eat only soft foods for the first 24 hours and avoid chewy, spicy, hot, or hard foods.
Feel free to contact Hale Family Dental if you need to have your wisdom teeth removed. We will be happy to answer your questions.