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Viva Smiles Family Dental in Georgetown, TX
Viva Smiles Family Dental
Viva Smiles Family Dental in Georgetown, TX
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Home › Dental Services › Restorative Dentistry › Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom Teeth Removal
A man holding a wisdom tooth after extraction, wincing and holding his jaw due to impacted wisdom tooth discomfort.Wisdom teeth are also known as the third molars. These are the last set of teeth to develop in the mouth. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may experience pain, overcrowding, or other dental problems that necessitate their removal. Understanding why wisdom teeth may need to be removed, how the procedure works, and the potential consequences of keeping them can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?


Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most adults have four wisdom teeth - one in each quadrant of the mouth. However, some individuals may have fewer or even none at all. These teeth were useful to our ancestors who had larger jaws and a diet that included rough foods like raw meats and roots. However, modern diets and smaller jaw structures often leave little room for these additional molars, leading to complications when they begin to emerge.

Reasons for Needing Wisdom Teeth Removed


Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but there are several reasons why a dentist or oral surgeon may recommend extraction:
•  Impaction: If the wisdom teeth do not fully emerge from the gum line, they can become impacted, leading to pain and infection.
•  Overcrowding: Limited space in the jaw can cause wisdom teeth to push against existing teeth, leading to misalignment.
•  Infection and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of gum infections and cavities.
•  Cyst Formation: In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially causing damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.


Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Removal


Wisdom teeth extraction is different from a regular tooth removal because these molars are often larger, deeply rooted, and sometimes impacted beneath the gums. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
•  Consultation and X-rays: Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if removal is necessary.
•  Anesthesia: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the extraction.
•  Surgical Removal: If the tooth is impacted, the surgeon may make a small incision in the gum, remove any obstructing bone, and extract the tooth in sections to minimize damage.
•  Stitching and Recovery: Stitches may be placed to aid healing, and gauze will be applied to control bleeding.


Can I Keep My Wisdom Teeth?


If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and not causing any dental issues, you may be able to keep them. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays will help monitor them to ensure they do not cause problems in the future. However, it is crucial to maintain proper oral hygiene to prevent infections or decay.

What Happens if I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed but Choose to Keep Them?


If you opt to keep problematic wisdom teeth, you may experience:
•  Persistent pain and discomfort due to impaction or crowding.
•  Increased risk of infections, as bacteria can accumulate around partially erupted wisdom teeth.
•  Tooth misalignment, potentially requiring orthodontic treatment.
•  Damage to adjacent teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease.


If you suspect that your wisdom teeth may be causing issues, be sure to contact us to schedule a thorough evaluation. Timely removal can prevent complications and help maintain your overall oral health.


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