Third Molar Extraction for a Healthy Smile
Third molars, also called wisdom teeth, are the last set of permanent teeth to develop, usually coming in between the ages of 17 and 21. However, most adults do not have room for four more molars. Due to the lack of space and the oral health problems wisdom teeth commonly cause, most dental experts recommend extracting them before complications arise.Dr. Sherban is an experienced, board-certified oral surgeon at The Regional Center for Dental Implants & Oral Surgery. He practices a wide scope of oral surgery procedures, including wisdom teeth removal, for patients of all ages. Contact our practice in Johnson City, TN, today to schedule a consultation if you or your child needs wisdom teeth removal.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?
Wisdom teeth removal is a very common oral surgery procedure. That’s because wisdom teeth cause oral health issues for many people. Since these molars are way in the back of the mouth, it can be harder to clean, resulting in tooth decay or gum or periodontal disease.
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they are trapped below the gums and cannot erupt normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause issues like pain, cysts or tumors, damage to nearby teeth, and gum disease.
As a preventive measure, most dental health professionals recommend removing wisdom teeth before they erupt, while they are still developing. The early to mid-teen years are an ideal time to get wisdom teeth removed, but they can be removed after they have fully developed too.
What Are the Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impaction is a common complication of wisdom teeth. There are different types of impaction:
- Soft tissue impaction: The tooth is stuck in the gum tissue and is either partially or completely below the gums. It is not stuck in the jaw bone.
- Partial bony impaction: A part of the tooth is stuck in the jaw bone, while the other part of the tooth is stuck in the gum tissue.
- Complete bony impaction: The tooth is completely stuck in the jaw bone. It cannot erupt through the gum tissue.
Regardless of the type of impaction, an impacted wisdom tooth cannot erupt properly and must be surgically removed. Your oral surgeon will take 3D scans of your face and jaws to create a plan for how to remove impacted wisdom teeth.
Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth
The following symptoms may indicate the presence of wisdom teeth:
- Red, swollen gums in the back of the mouth
- Jaw pain
- Gums that are sore or bleed easily
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Every oral surgery treatment starts with a consultation with Dr. Sherban. During this first visit, Dr. Sherban will assess your oral health, review X-rays, take 3D scans, and determine a treatment plan that is right for you. Anesthesia options will also be discussed at this time.
Your surgical procedure will take place in one of our state-of-the-art surgical suites. Anesthesia will be administered, and once you are comfortable, the surgery will begin.
If the wisdom teeth are above the gum tissue, they may be extracted like any other tooth extraction. If they are impacted, your surgeon will make an incision in the gums to expose and remove the tooth. Sutures will be placed if necessary, and you will rest comfortably in our office until the anesthesia has worn off and you are ready to go home.
In general, the procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Our practice will provide you with post-operative instructions to follow to ensure you have an optimal recovery.
Types of Anesthesia
Our practice offers several types of anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort.
Hear From Our Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the right time for my wisdom teeth to come out?
Many people get their wisdom teeth removed during their early or mid-teen years, when the wisdom teeth are still developing. This is to prevent oral health complications that commonly occur with wisdom teeth from arising. However, wisdom teeth may be removed at any time. Please contact us to schedule a consultation.
How much does it cost to have wisdom teeth removed?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal is determined by several factors, such as your insurance, how many teeth need to be removed, the type of anesthesia selected, and the complexity of your surgery. You will be provided with an estimated cost during your consultation appointment.
What is recovery after wisdom tooth removal like?
We will send you home with post-operative instructions to follow. It has important information for a smooth recovery, such as what to do for the first 24 hours, salt water rinses, when to resume normal activities, and foods to eat while you recover.
What is dry socket?
A dry socket can happen after a tooth extraction. It is a painful condition that is the result of the blood clot dislodging from the empty tooth socket. To prevent dry socket, please follow our post-operative instructions. If you think you may have dry socket after wisdom tooth extraction, please contact our office.
Compassionate Care With Innovative Treatment Options
The Regional Center for Dental Implants & Oral Surgery offers the latest technology and personalized treatment plans to make every experience exceptional. Our practice in Johnson City, TN, provides oral and maxillofacial surgery services to patients of all ages throughout Northeast Tennessee, Western North Carolina, and surrounding areas. Contact our practice today to learn more about our practice, the services we offer, or to schedule an appointment.