What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth generally begin to surface in the late teens to early twenties. Many times they become impacted as they develop, growing sideways into the other teeth or angled forward. Wisdom teeth may come through the gum line or may stay set in the jaw. Teeth that are only partly through the gum can be difficult to clean and care for, which can lead to other problems.
When Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are commonly removed for:
- Impacted teeth
- Prevention of changes in the alignment of the other teeth, including during orthodontics
- Cysts, tumours or abscesses
- Partial eruption, which can lead to an operculum, a flap of gum over the tooth
Most extractions are done as a preventive measure to safeguard against changes in the alignment of the teeth or more serious complications. Oral surgery is typically done when the patient is young because the roots have not yet set in the jaw. Once the teeth are anchored, removal is more difficult and recovery takes longer.
Simple Wisdom Tooth Extraction
In a simple extraction, a local anesthetic numbs the area, but does not make you unconscious. The tooth is lifted using an elevator and removed with forceps. Your dentist works slowly so the tooth does not break during removal. This kind of extraction is done for teeth that have already come through the gum.
Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
In a surgical extraction, oral sedation may be used in combination with nitrous oxide, which leaves you relaxed but conscious. An incision is made to help with removal, and the tooth is often sectioned to make it easier to remove. This is done for teeth that have not come through the gum, or for teeth that have complications, such as large or curved roots. Tooth extractions are typically handled by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon on an outpatient basis, and your dentist will advise whether yours can be done in our office or whether a referral is best. Learn more about sedation dentistry.
Patient Experience
Your experience depends on how complicated the extraction is. Every procedure begins with a consultation, where you are shown any current or possible problems with your teeth along with a plan. Whatever type of anesthetic is used, you will have numbness, and possibly some difficulty chewing or speaking afterward, but this is temporary. A surgical extraction takes more time to heal, and inflammation is generally greater, so you may be given instructions for managing pain and swelling.
Before Your Visit
- Share your medical history, medications and allergies.
- Follow any instructions about eating, drinking or medications before treatment.
- Arrange a ride home if you will have sedation.
- Plan to rest for the rest of the day, and stock soft foods.
- Bring your insurance information, if you have it, and let us know if you feel anxious.
After Your Treatment
- Your dentist will give you a list of foods to avoid and how to care for the wound during recovery.
- Bruising around the face or blood oozing from the wound is normal and resolves in a few days.
- Avoid smoking for the first 24 hours, and avoid activities that can loosen the blood clot, such as drinking through a straw or rinsing your mouth out hard.
- Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others need a follow-up visit to be removed.
- Watch for warning signs. A dry socket generally heals by itself, but consult your dentist to speed healing and to rule out infection. Nerve injury is often temporary, but contact your dentist as soon as possible if you notice numbness that does not go away. If your procedure damages prior dental work, tell your dentist.
- Call us if you have swelling that increases, fever, severe pain or bleeding that does not stop. Trouble breathing or swallowing needs emergency care, so go to the nearest hospital or call 911.
Costs, Insurance and Payment
We provide a free estimate and bill all major and government insurance plans directly where coverage applies. Our fees follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. If you are not covered, instant financing with easy monthly payment plans is available.
Why Choose Heritage Valley Dental?
- A gentle, calm approach to extractions
- Laughing gas and sedation options for anxious patients
- A free estimate and second opinions
- Same-day emergency appointments if you are in pain
- Open seven days a week in South Edmonton
