Wisdom teeth removal is one of the more common types of Oral Surgery in Vancouver WA. Sometimes these teeth can be extracted without surgery, but impacted teeth need more specialized attention. Impacted wisdom teeth occur relatively frequently since the molars are large and many mouths simply are not large enough for those teeth.
Age Considerations
Most people who have the third molars removed do so as young adults. Their general dentists as well as practitioners of oral surgery in Vancouver WA typically recommend this if there is any distinct sign that the teeth will cause problems in the future. Early removal prevents problems like infection, cysts and cavities.
Problems With Impaction and Partial Growth
All of these issues tend to be more prevalent with the third molars than with other teeth. Sometimes wisdom teeth only grow in partially, which can allow bacteria to grow in gaps in the gum tissue around them. They are so far in the back that they are difficult to care for properly. In addition, they often push other teeth out of alignment as they grow in. Impacted teeth can grow in very unusual directions instead of coming straight down or up. X-rays may even show them in a total sideways position.
Fully impacted wisdom teeth and those that have stopped coming in after growing in part of the way require surgery for their removal. Patients may have general anesthesia before the procedure; oral surgeons may prefer this so the patients don’t experience discomfort and remain completely still. Even with impacted teeth, the operation is not a long one. Patients who have had general anesthesia or oral sedation will need a ride home afterward, as the tranquilizing effects linger to a certain extent.
Aftercare
The procedure can be completed at a practice such as Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry, which provides general dental care and oral surgery. Afterward, the patient can reduce swelling and discomfort by applying ice packs on the face. Prescription pain medication might be welcomed for a few days, although the sedating effects may only be acceptable at night. Gently rinsing the areas with warm salt water, beginning the next day, can reduce inflammation and speed healing. You can also connect them on Facebook.
