Wisdom Teeth Extraction Services in Whitby, ON
The Modern Mouth & Wisdom Teeth Extraction Services
If you’re an adult and still have your wisdom teeth, there’s a good chance they’re causing problems or will cause problems in the future. That’s why the Whitby extraction dentists at Dentistry on Dundas recommended having your wisdom teeth removed as soon as possible. Wisdom teeth extraction services can help treat or address problems caused by wisdom teeth. Keep reading to learn why it might be best to have these problematic teeth removed and how our talented extraction dentists can easily remove them.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth. They typically appear in their late teens or early twenties. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, with one located at the back of each corner of the mouth. These teeth were historically useful for our ancestors who had a diet consisting of tougher, harder-to-chew foods. However, in modern times, wisdom teeth often pose more problems than benefits.
Problems Caused By Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of issues due to their late eruption and limited space in the mouth. Some common problems associated with wisdom teeth include:
- Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they do not fully emerge from the gum line. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Crowding: When there is insufficient space in the mouth, wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the surrounding teeth, leading to misalignment and crowding.
- Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be challenging to clean properly. This increases the risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation, and periodontal (gum) disease.
- Cysts and Tumors: In some cases, wisdom teeth may develop cysts or tumors, which can cause damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Signs That You May Need Wisdom Teeth Extraction Services
While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth extracted, there are signs you should always look out for if you still have yours. Signs that you may need wisdom teeth extraction include:
Pain or Discomfort
Persistent or recurring pain in the back of your mouth, jaw, or surrounding areas can be a sign of impacted or infected wisdom teeth. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing pain.
Swelling and Redness
Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the gum line in the back of your mouth may indicate an infection or inflammation caused by partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth.
Difficulty in Opening Mouth
If you experience difficulty or discomfort when opening your mouth fully or when chewing, it could be due to pressure or impaction caused by wisdom teeth.
Crowding or Shifting Teeth
Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, causing crowding or shifting of teeth in the mouth. This can lead to misalignment, bite problems, or the need for orthodontic treatment.
Sinus Issues
Impacted upper wisdom teeth can sometimes cause sinus problems, including sinus pressure, congestion, or recurrent sinus infections.
Gum Problems
Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums in the area where wisdom teeth are erupting or impacted can indicate the need for extraction.
It’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the best course of action regarding wisdom teeth. They can assess the condition of your wisdom teeth through dental examinations and X-rays and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as extraction, if necessary.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
Dentistry on Dundas understands you may not be thrilled at the idea of having your wisdom teeth removed, even if they’re causing painful problems. Rest assured our wisdom teeth extractions are as fast as possible and virtually painless. Here’s what you can usually expect during wisdom teeth extraction:
Initial Consultation
Before undergoing a wisdom teeth extraction, you’ll schedule an initial consultation with a qualified dentist at Dentistry on Dundas. During this visit, your Whitby extraction dentist will assess the position and alignment of your wisdom teeth using X-rays and discuss the procedure in detail.
This consultation also allows you to ask any questions or address concerns you may have. If you’re feeling nervous about the procedure, don’t worry. We can offer sedation dentistry options for patients who are jittery, resistant to local anesthetic, or those who are in for a long procedure.
Preparing for the Extraction
Once you’ve decided to proceed with the extraction, your Whitby extraction dentist will provide you with pre-operative instructions. These instructions may include fasting for a certain period before the procedure, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
Local Anesthesia
During the wisdom teeth extraction procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic. Local anesthesia numbs the specific area around the tooth, while general anesthesia induces temporary unconsciousness.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your dentist will begin the extraction process. Extracting wisdom teeth usually involves surgical extraction, which involves making an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. In some cases, the tooth may be extracted whole, while in others, it may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. Your dentist will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Closing the Incision
After the tooth has been successfully removed, your dentist will clean the extraction site and may place dissolvable stitches to aid in the healing process. The incision is then closed to promote proper healing and prevent infection.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following the extraction, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative aftercare instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed pain medication, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Avoid strenuous activities, smoking, and consuming hard or sticky foods during the initial healing phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, wisdom teeth extraction is not usually painful during the procedure itself. Your extraction dentist will administer an anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free. You should also talk to them about your options for sedation dentistry beforehand. However, some discomfort and swelling may occur during the recovery phase, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your dentist.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, although they are relatively rare. These may include infection, dry socket (a condition where the blood clot in the extraction site dislodges or dissolves), nerve damage, or damage to adjacent teeth. Your extraction dentist will take all necessary precautions to minimize these risks and ensure a safe procedure.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, misaligned, or causing issues such as pain, infection, or overcrowding, it’s generally recommended to have them extracted. Failing to remove problematic wisdom teeth can lead to more significant oral health problems in the future, including damage to adjacent teeth, gum disease, and the development of cysts or tumors. It’s best to consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable course of action for your specific case.
The recovery time after wisdom teeth extraction can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes about seven to 10 days for the initial healing process. During this time, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, and mild bruising. Full healing, including the closure of the extraction sites, may take several weeks. Your dentist will monitor your progress and guide you throughout the recovery period.
Call Dentistry on Dundas for Painless Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Don’t delay addressing your wisdom teeth concerns. Schedule a consultation with Dentistry on Dundas by dialing (905) 666-1555 and discuss whether or not you’d benefit from wisdom teeth extractions with one of our Whitby dentists. You can also book an appointment online by filling out the contact form below and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly. Dentistry on Dundas serves new and returning patients from Whitby and surrounding areas such as Oshawa, Ajax, and Courtice, ON.
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