Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. The term “wisdom” stems from the idea that the molars surface at a time typically associated with increased maturity or “wisdom”.

In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.

There are several types, or degrees, of impaction based on the actual depth of the teeth within the jaw:

Soft Tissue Impaction: The upper portion of the tooth (the crown) has penetrated through the bone, but the gingiva (gum) is covering part or all of the tooth’s crown and has not positioned properly around the tooth. Because it is difficult to keep the area clean, food can become trapped below the gum and cause an infection and/or tooth decay, resulting in pain and swelling.

Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth has partially erupted, but a portion of the crown remains submerged below the gum and surrounding jawbone. Again, because it is difficult to keep the area clean, infection will commonly occur.

Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth is completely encased by jawbone. This will require more complex removal techniques.

Reasons to remove wisdom teeth

While not all wisdom teeth require removal, wisdom teeth extractions are most often performed because of an active problem such as pain, swelling, decay or infection, or as a preventative measure to avoid serious problems in the future. If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present, and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur, including:

  • Damage to nearby teeth: Second molars (the teeth directly in front of the wisdom teeth) can be adversely affected by impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in tooth decay (cavities), periodontal disease (gum disease) and possible bone loss.
  • Disease: Although uncommon, cysts and tumors can occur in the areas surrounding impacted wisdom teeth.
  • Infection: Bacteria and food can become trapped under the gum tissue, resulting in an infection. The infection can cause considerable pain and danger.
  • Tooth Crowding: It has been theorized that impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on other teeth and cause them to become misaligned (crowded or twisted). This theory isn’t universally accepted by all dental professionals, and it has never been validated by any scientific studies.

Wisdom teeth examination

As with any dental procedure, your dentist will want to initially conduct a thorough examination of the wisdom and surrounding teeth. Panoramic or digital X-rays will be taken in order for your dentist to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if a current problem exists, or the likelihood of any potential future problems.  The X-rays can also expose additional risk factors, such as deterioration or decay of nearby teeth. Early evaluation and treatment (typically in the mid-teen years) is recommended in order to identify potential problems and to improve the results for patients requiring wisdom teeth extractions. Only after a thorough examination can your dentist provide you with the best options for your particular case.

What does the removal of wisdom teeth involve?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, generally performed under local anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia by a specially trained dentist in an office surgery suite. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be released with post-operative instructions and medication (if necessary), to help manage any swelling or discomfort.

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I have been going to surprise dental care for over 10 years. The office is always very clean the staff very friendly and accommodating.
I love my dentist there, she's very gentle professional and does great work!

Dr Jenny Wang DDS did my veneers 10 years ago and they still look beautiful, Have had no problems whatsoever and I still get compliments and people want to know Who did my veneers !

I also had two implants there And had no problems. I have heard horrific stories about implants but mine worked very well never having to go back for any reason.

I, without any hesitation would recommend this dentistry In surprise Arizona, and I give them full marks.

Marina F.

I have been Dr. Wang's patient for about 10 years, I have very positive experience with staffs and hygienist. They are very professional, friendly and make me feel very comfortable going to the dentist. Dr. Wang is the best dentist I ever had, she gives painless shots and she is extremely knowledgeable of dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. My husband and I have great dental care with Dr. Wang.

Laura. A.

Dr. Wang, I am one of your dental patients' and have interfaced with your complete staff on numerous occasions, from the administrative staff to the dental specialists, and I find them all outstanding in every respect. I have traveled from the east coast to the west coast, Europe and Asia and have had dental work performed in many dental facilities, and if I could rate them, your office, Surprise Dental Care, would received the top rating.
You talk to me in a polite and caring manner. You do this by questioning me and making sure I am ok all throughout the process. this ensures me that you care about my aches and pains while the dental work is being performed. The hygienist Karen is certainly the best I have ever encountered to date.
Dr. Wang, please convey my appreciation to your team of experts for a job well done, above and beyond the call of duty.

Jeff . C.

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We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.