Wisdom teeth are the third molars located in the very back of your mouth that are the last four teeth to erupt through the gums. You have two on the bottom row and two in the top row. Wisdom teeth typically start erupting in your late teens or early twenties. Some patients experience complications with their wisdom teeth, such as infections, overcrowding, or only partial breakthrough. When complications occur, you dentist may recommend that you meet with an oral surgeon about having them removed.
Dr. Chris Tye is a qualified Grapevine oral surgeon who serves patients in the Colleyville, Southlake, Keller area. To schedule your wisdom teeth removal consultation, contact our office today online or by calling (817) 552-3223.
When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
Wisdom teeth removal is typically necessary if teeth have failed to erupt and are impacted or partially impacted. They may also need to be removed if they are causing pain, overcrowding, dental misalignment, or develop an infection.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are two types of wisdom teeth removal procedures. The type performed will depend on whether your teeth are impacted or erupted. In cases where the teeth are fully above the gums, a simple extraction can be performed. Dr. Tye will first loosen the tooth and then grasp it with forceps to lift it from the socket. If wisdom teeth are impacted, your procedure will require more complex techniques. An incision will be made along the top of the gums and soft and hard tissue will first be removed so Dr. Tye can access the tooth. He will then loosen the tooth and lift it from the socket with forceps. Gauze will be immediately applied to stop the bleeding and the socket closed with incisions.
Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Painful?
Both simple and complex wisdom teeth removal are performed under IV sedation with a local anesthetic to provide optimum comfort. During the procedure you will feel nothing and be completely relaxed. After the procedure is completed you will be given pain medications to help minimize any discomfort and swelling.
What Are Dry Sockets?
Once the wisdom tooth is removed, the area left behind is known as a socket. Dr. Tye will place gauze over the socket and have you bite down to slow the bleeding and allow a blood clot to form. When a blood clot fails to form or is dislodged, this is known as a dry socket and can be very painful. To avoid this from occurring, it is imperative that you follow your post-op instructions carefully. Instructions may include:
- Not drinking from a straw for several days
- Not smoking during the recovery period
- Keeping the area clean with proper oral hygiene
- Taking medications as prescribed
Should An Oral Surgeon Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
Although some general dentists are trained in simple tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal is typically more complex and should be performed by an oral surgeon. An oral surgeon, such as Dr. Tye, has a higher level of education, more experience, and a better understanding of the anatomy of the teeth and jaws.
Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you are looking for a Grapevine oral surgeon to perform your wisdom teeth removal, contact our Colleyville, TX practice today online or give us a call at (817) 552-3223 to book your appointment.
