Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Jefferson Hills, PA
Wisdom Tooth Extraction provided by Dr. Kenneth Poleski
in Jefferson Hills, PA at Poleski Family Dentistry
 Maintaining optimal oral health involves navigating various dental milestones, and one significant event is the eruption of wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge during the late teenage years or early twenties.
While some individuals experience a smooth eruption of these teeth, many encounter wisdom tooth complications that necessitate wisdom tooth surgery and removal. Wisdom teeth removal is indeed an oral surgery, but rest assured it is not a complicated one and you will be on the road to recovery in no time. Wisdom teeth removal is a common and fairly simple procedure.
If you have any concerns about your upcoming wisdom teeth removal, our dentist, Dr. Kenneth Poleski here at Poleski Family Dentistry is going to help you out and make sure you can rest easy before your procedure. Once you gain a better understanding of what is involved with wisdom teeth removal, you can plan accordingly.
Exploring Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars found at the back of the mouth. These teeth no longer serve an essential function in modern dentistry. Early humans required additional molars and larger jaws to handle the demands of chewing hard plants, roots, and raw meat. However, nowadays, we consume softer and cooked foods, making wisdom teeth become unnecessary.
Wisdom teeth often pose problems due to their late eruption and limited jaw space. Most people have four wisdom teeth. These teeth are located two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. However, not everyone develops all four wisdom teeth, and some individuals may not even develop any wisdom teeth at all.
Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal
There are several reasons why you may need your wisdom teeth removed. The most common among these include impaction and to prevent overcrowding.
Impaction
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there isn't enough space in the jaw for them to fully emerge. This can result in partial or full entrapment beneath the gum line and can cause a lot of wisdom tooth pain.
Misalignment
Wisdom teeth may emerge at odd angles, causing misalignment with neighboring teeth. This misalignment can affect the bite, cause discomfort, and make proper oral hygiene challenging. This misalignment can also undo any previous orthodontia work.
Crowding
Limited jaw space can lead to crowding, exerting pressure on adjacent teeth and potentially causing pain and shifting of the teeth.
Infection and Decay
Positioned at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are more difficult to clean, making them especially prone to bacterial buildup, infection, decay, and gum disease.
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure typically performed by an oral surgeon or an experienced dentist like Dr. Poleski. The process involves several steps:
Consultation and Examination
A comprehensive examination, often including X-rays, will be conducted to assess the wisdom teeth's position and condition. Based on the findings, the need for dental extraction is determined.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is administered to ensure a painless experience. The type of anesthesia used depends on factors such as extraction complexity and patient preference.
Incision and Surgical Extraction
If a wisdom tooth is impacted, an incision is made in the gum tissue to access the tooth and underlying bone. The tooth is then carefully extracted, sometimes requiring subdivision (breaking up of the tooth into smaller pieces) for easier removal.
Closure of the Extraction Site
After extraction, the site is cleaned, and sutures are placed to promote proper healing.
Recovery from Extraction and Aftercare
Patients will receive post-operative care instructions from us, including how to manage swelling, pain, and bleeding. Prescribed medications may be provided to aid recovery.
After surgery, it is common to feel a little groggy, but you probably will not be in much pain right away. As the medication wears off, you might feel increased levels of pain. This is to be expected and is not an alarm for any serious issues.
Aftercare Tips for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Follow Post-Operative Instructions
Be sure to adhere to instructions regarding diet, oral hygiene, and medication usage for a smooth recovery. Expect to only want to eat soft foods for a couple of days.
Manage Swelling and Discomfort
Apply cold compresses and take pain relievers as directed to alleviate swelling and discomfort. You can apply ice packs to your jaw on the outside of your mouth, which can help alleviate any swelling and the associated pain.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Continue gentle oral hygiene practices, being sure to avoid the surgical site while keeping the rest of the mouth clean.
Watch for Complications
Monitor for signs of complications like excessive bleeding, persistent pain, or infection, and seek prompt dental attention if needed.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments allow the dentist to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns you may have.
Use Prescribed Medications
Take prescribed medications, including antibiotics and pain relievers, as directed to prevent infections and manage pain.
Apply Ice Packs
Use ice packs on the cheek to minimize swelling during the initial 24 hours after extraction.
Protect the Blood Clot
Avoid actions that may dislodge the blood clot, such as drinking with a straw, vigorous rinsing, or touching the surgical area.
By following these aftercare tips diligently, patients can promote healing and minimize complications after wisdom tooth extraction.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common and necessary procedure aimed at alleviating discomfort, preventing complications, and maintaining oral health. Understanding the reasons for extraction, the extraction process, and proper aftercare empowers individuals facing this procedure to approach it confidently and ensure a smooth recovery.
If you're experiencing wisdom tooth-related issues or considering extraction, contact Poleski Family Dentistry to discuss your situation and schedule a consultation. Taking proactive steps toward oral health today can lead to a brighter, pain-free smile tomorrow.
Schedule a Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Jefferson Hills Today!
For questions about wisdom tooth extraction or other dental concerns, schedule a consultation with our experienced team at Poleski Family Dentistry. We're here to address your concerns and provide personalized care for a comfortable extraction experience. Call us at 412 813-3131 to begin your journey to optimal oral health today! |
