No one looks forward to having their wisdom teeth removed, but for many people, it’s necessary to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether your wisdom teeth have emerged and are causing dental problems, such as pain, or you’d like to prevent oral health concerns from developing later, the trusted team at Walnut Creek Dental is here for you. Here’s what you should know before scheduling a consultation to remove wisdom teeth. 

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What is a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that are located in the back of your mouth. For most people, wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of oral health problems when they emerge, including pain. For this reason, most people have them removed through a procedure known as a wisdom tooth extraction.

Why Would You Need to Get a Wisdom Tooth Pulled?

Your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed for one of several reasons:

  • They’re impacted, which can lead to pain or infection.
  • They’re coming in at the wrong angle, causing pain or surrounding teeth to shift.
  • They’re decayed or have gum disease.
  • There’s no room in your mouth for them.

Even if you’re not currently experiencing symptoms from your wisdom teeth, having them removed could be beneficial to prevent dental issues from developing in the future that require extensive dental treatment.

Wisdom Tooth Surgery

You can remove your wisdom teeth right in our office. Here’s what you can expect from undergoing oral surgery with one of our experienced dentists:

  • Preparation: Discuss any questions or concerns you may have with the dentist prior to the surgery, including your medical history. Prior to your surgery, it’s very important to follow the dentist’s guidelines for eating, drinking, and taking medications. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home from the surgery.
  • During Surgery: Your surgery should take about 45 minutes. First, the dentist will sedate you (either with nitrous oxide through a mask or with anesthesia through an IV in your arm). Then, they will numb the surrounding area of your mouth. Next, they will remove the tissue and bone surrounding the tooth, as well as the wisdom tooth itself. Finally, they will carefully close the incision with stitches.

What is the Recovery Time of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Your recovery time after a wisdom tooth extraction will depend on the condition of your mouth and the number of teeth you had removed. In most cases, it can take up to 6 weeks to completely heal, however, you could resume normal activities the next day if you feel up to it.

What Should You Avoid After a Wisdom Teeth Surgery?

During the first 24 hours after surgery, be sure to avoid:

  • Strenuous exercise
  • Using a straw
  • Eating hard or chewy foods
  • Alcohol and tobacco
  • Brushing near the incision

Explain the Potential Risks of a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

While problems from having your wisdom teeth removed are rare, potential risks include:

  • Infection
  • Dry socket

The best way to prevent these issues from occurring is to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care of your incision while it heals.

Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The cost of removing wisdom teeth will depend on how many teeth you have extracted and your dental insurance coverage. Please contact our office for information on what your dental insurance plan includes.

Walnut Creek Dental: The Best Choice for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you’re in need of a wisdom tooth extraction, the experienced dental team at Wisdom Creek Dental is here for you. With our state-of-the-art equipment, progressive techniques, and compassionate service, we are committed to providing exceptional care to each of our patients. Contact us today to schedule your free wisdom tooth extraction consultation.