What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth are the final two teeth that commonly develop during the late teen years of a patient’s life. Located in the rear corners of both arches, wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, frequently don’t have enough room to grow effectively. Because of this, wisdom teeth usually require removal to ensure overall oral health. Third molars might also be impacted (trapped beneath the gum tissues or bone) or misaligned, causing several dental concerns. Dr. Walker and associates offers wisdom teeth extractions for Schertz, TX patients to enhance oral health and protect against future dental problems. If you or someone in your family have aching or impacted wisdom teeth, schedule an exam at Savannah Smiles Dental Center to learn about your treatment options.

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What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extractions?

Wisdom teeth extractions in Schertz, TX at Savannah Smiles Dental Center provide both functional and aesthetic benefits, including:

  • Relieves pain and discomfort
  • Reduces risks of teeth crowding
  • Helps avoid damage to neighboring teeth
  • Minimizes risks for jaw issues, cysts, oral disease, tumors, and more
  • Offers sedation options to make the procedure more comfortable
  • Improves oral health

Are You a Candidate?

Generally, wisdom teeth removals are recommended for people who are between the ages of 17 – 25. Not all patients’ wisdom teeth will automatically need removal; however, having impacted wisdom teeth in the mouth could cause further possible dental concerns in the future. Our doctors will generally suggest wisdom teeth removal for adults and teens with:

  • Gum irritation (pericoronitis), cheek puffiness, or TMJ aches
  • Improper space for effective molar eruption
  • Totally or partially impacted third molars within the gum tissues or jaw
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Any development of a cyst in the jaw
  • Decay on the wisdom teeth or patients who have difficulty keeping the wisdom teeth plaque-free

What Can I Expect from Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Savannah Smiles Dental Center performs wisdom teeth extractions while our patients are under local anesthesia, but this procedure can also be combined with oral-conscious or IV sedation techniques to increase comfort. Most cases of wisdom teeth removal call for a surgical technique, like when the teeth are impacted, have bent roots, or are strongly situated in the jaw. When Dr. Walker and associates creates an incision in the gums to get to the tooth, she may split it into a few segments, which offers a streamlined removal. Depending on your unique situation, each of the wisdom teeth may be extracted during a single session. Sutures are usually applied afterward to protect the removal sites and encourage the healing process. You will then be given post-operative tips to follow over the next few days.

What Are Tooth Extractions?

At Savannah Smiles Dental Center, we make every effort to conserve and maintain your teeth; however, teeth that are damaged or decayed beyond repair might have to be extracted. A simple extraction takes out a tooth that is visible above the gumline. A surgical extraction removes a tooth that hasn’t erupted above the gumline. Surgical extractions are frequently performed to remove impacted teeth, like wisdom teeth, that do not have enough space to fit into your mouth. Dr. Walker and associates provides different sedation methods, such as nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, which can help you stay comfortable during your treatment. If you think you may need a tooth extraction or other dental treatment, call our Schertz, TX office today to schedule an exam.

How Are Tooth Extractions Performed?

Tooth extractions are performed in our office using local anesthesia to numb the area near the tooth being removed. Different types of sedation may be used, depending on the degree of the extraction and to help keep you relaxed in case you have any anxiety. To complete a simple extraction, our doctors will loosen the tooth using a special device known as an elevator before removing it. A surgical extraction entails making incisions in your gums to get to the tooth. If needed, the tooth may be broken up into smaller pieces so it can be removed. Once the tooth has been removed, the incision in your gums will be closed up. Antibiotics or pain medication might be prescribed afterward.