Wisdom Teeth Extraction for Patients
Unlike their name, wisdom teeth don’t make us smarter. In fact, these large third molars can cause many problems, including pain, dental crowding, cyst formation, and an increased risk of gum disease. These molars are the last permanent teeth to grow in, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately for most of us, by this time, both our upper and lower jaws have a full set of teeth and no room for four more molars (one on each side of the upper and lower jaw).
At Northern Texas Facial & Oral Surgery, we use X-rays to see your visible teeth as well as monitor the progress of wisdom teeth growing below the surface of your gums. If we notice the teeth have nowhere to grow into, our surgeons can remove your wisdom teeth in a safe, minimally invasive procedure. Please call today to schedule a consultation for your child or yourself if you never had your wisdom teeth removed or if you feel pain at the back of your jaw.
Impacted wisdom teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t fit well within your tooth and jaw structure, they are called impacted wisdom teeth. This means there is no space for them to break through the gumline like other growing teeth.
When these large teeth begin to grow in, they can become encased in tissue. Encasement in gum tissue is called a soft-tissue impaction, while encasement in bone is called a bony impaction. If left alone, these conditions can cause pain, swelling, and infection. The issue is so common that most Americans need to have the wisdom teeth removed, and the standard procedure is very simple and safe.
Will wisdom teeth extraction impact my appearance or comfort?
Fortunately, wisdom teeth are the last molars in the back of your mouth and removing them doesn’t affect your smile, appearance, or dental function (ability to eat, speak, etc.). On the other hand, wisdom teeth that make it through gum and bone without getting stuck often emerge into a mouth that doesn’t have room for them, crowding existing teeth and impacting the look, feel, and function of your smile.
Because crowded teeth are harder to clean, the risk of tooth decay and gum disease increases.
If you would like to learn more, read an eBooklet about wisdom teeth management published by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
Extractions at Northern Texas Facial & Oral Surgery
The surgeons at Northern Texas Facial & Oral Surgery recommend that children entering their teen years receive an X-ray evaluation by a dentist, orthodontist, or oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine the location and condition of wisdom teeth. Early intervention to remove wisdom teeth that are likely to become impacted can prevent future discomfort, promote rapid healing, and pave the way for a healthy smile. Wisdom tooth removal also aids in orthodontic treatment by creating space in which permanent teeth can emerge or be moved into their ideal arrangement.
Helpful Articles
NTFOS, with the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness, has provided the following articles to help boost consumer education and awareness about dental implants. For many, placing dental implants is major decision and investment. These resources will help our patients make informed and confident decisions about dental implants.
Wisdom Teeth Management
This article addresses the seriousness of impacted wisdom teeth, some of the common problems that can occur and what to expect for wisdom teeth removal surgery. View the article (PDF)