What Your Oral Surgeon Can Do With Your Wisdom Teeth
Posted on 3/3/2025 by San Tan Oral Surgery
Wisdom teeth are the four permanent adult teeth located at the very back corners of your mouth, two on top and two on bottom. They typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, earning the nickname "wisdom teeth" because they arrive later than other adult teeth.
While some people's wisdom teeth erupt without issue, many others experience problems like:
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Impaction: When a wisdom tooth doesn't have enough room to erupt fully and remains trapped in the jawbone.
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Crowding: When wisdom teeth push against other teeth, causing misalignment and potential damage.
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Pain: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing.
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Infection: Food and bacteria can get trapped around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to infection.
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Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors in the jawbone.
If you're experiencing any of these problems, it's important to see an oral surgeon. An oral surgeon is a dental specialist who has additional training in surgery of the mouth, jaws, and face. They are experts in diagnosing and treating wisdom teeth problems.
What to Expect During a Wisdom Teeth Consultation
When you visit an oral surgeon for a wisdom teeth consultation, they will first ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will then examine your mouth and take X-rays to get a better look at your wisdom teeth.
Based on the examination and X-rays, the oral surgeon will discuss treatment options with you. In some cases, they may recommend monitoring your wisdom teeth if they are not causing any problems. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing other issues, they will likely recommend extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction: The Procedure
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure that is typically performed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth. They will then carefully remove the tooth and stitch the incision closed.
After the procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Your oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your mouth and manage any pain.
Following Up After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
It is important to follow up with your oral surgeon after your wisdom teeth extraction. They will monitor your healing and check for any signs of infection. They will also provide you with instructions on how to care for your mouth and avoid complications.
Restoration Dentistry: Replacing Missing Teeth
If your wisdom teeth needed to be extracted, you may be interested in replacing them with dental implants or bridges. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in your jawbone. Once the implants have healed, artificial teeth can be attached to them. Bridges are prosthetic teeth that are attached to your natural teeth or dental implants.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems if they are impacted or not properly aligned. If you are experiencing any problems with your wisdom teeth, it is important to see an oral surgeon. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. After your wisdom teeth are extracted, you may want to consider restoration dentistry options to replace the missing teeth.
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About Us | Dental Implants Gilbert, AZ | San Tan Oral Surgery If you have recently been told you need oral surgery, you have come to the right place. Call San Tan Oral Surgery to schedule your initial consultation today! San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 \ (480) 604-2592 \ santanoralsurgery.com \ 3/21/2025 \ Page Phrases: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ \
Wisdom teeth are the four permanent adult teeth located at the very back corners of your mouth, two on top and two on bottom. They typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, earning the nickname "wisdom teeth" because they arrive later than other adult teeth.