Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Tucson, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop at the back of the mouth. When there is not enough room for them to erupt properly, they may become impacted, partially erupt, or grow at an angle. This can contribute to pain, swelling, infection, difficulty cleaning the area, or damage to nearby teeth.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. At Simply Smiles Dentistry, we evaluate the position and condition of your wisdom teeth and discuss whether extraction is appropriate for your oral health and long-term needs. Our team can explain your treatment options, what to expect during the procedure, and how to prepare for recovery.
Wisdom teeth extraction is available at Simply Smiles Dentistry in Tucson and the surrounding area. Most patients who need wisdom tooth extraction are in their young adulthood. Call us today at (520) 979-3880 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
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Understanding Wisdom Teeth Extraction
“Wisdom teeth” is the colloquial term for the third set of molars that sit in the back of the mouth. They are called such because they come between the more “mature” ages of 17 and 21. The emergence of wisdom teeth can be uncomfortable, even if they are emerging correctly. Wisdom teeth do not always necessitate extraction. On the contrary, properly aligned wisdom teeth may assist in chewing.
However, if there is no adequate space for the wisdom teeth to emerge or if the teeth are coming through in the wrong position, they may become impacted (or trapped in the jaw or under the gums). This may cause cysts, damage to neighboring teeth, gum disease, infection, pain, tooth, decay, and tumors. A dentist needs to monitor the patient’s wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. Teeth that are healthy, properly positioned, functional, and easy to keep clean may sometimes be monitored instead of extracted.
What to Know Before Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth extraction is commonly performed and generally safe when carried out by qualified doctors. However, like any other surgery, it does carry a small risk of complications. These include bleeding, dry socket, and infection. Our team will do everything we can to minimize these risks even further. However, patients should contact our office immediately if they find themselves experiencing any of the following symptoms after their extraction:
- Absent or dislodged blood clot at the extraction site after surgery
- High temperature
- Yellow or white discharge from the extraction site
- Persistent pain and swelling
- Persistent, heavy bleeding that does not subside over time
- Throbbing pain in the gum or jaw
- Unpleasant smell or taste in the mouth
Most potential complications following wisdom teeth extraction are easily treatable when reported to the doctor.
“Wisdom teeth extraction is commonly performed and generally safe when carried out by qualified doctors.”
Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The first step to wisdom teeth extraction begins with an initial consultation. During this time, patients should be open and honest with their doctor about their entire medical history. This includes but is not limited to sharing any health problems they may have, any medications and supplements they may take regularly, and any lifestyle choices that may influence the success of the surgery. The consultation is also a good time for patients to assuage their anxieties by asking any questions about the procedure.
“The first step to wisdom teeth extraction begins with an initial consultation.”
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What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Generally, wisdom teeth extraction begins with the doctor injecting the patient with a local anesthetic to numb them to the pain of the procedure. The doctor will then cut into the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone, making sure to remove any bone blocking access to the tooth root. Depending on how severely impacted the tooth is, the tooth may be divided into sections to be removed little by little.
After extracting the tooth, the doctor will clean the extraction site of any debris. Afterward, the wound may or may not need stitches, and the doctor will pack gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and to aid in the formation of a blood clot.
The exact approach depends on how your wisdom tooth is positioned. A fully erupted tooth may be easier to remove than an impacted tooth that is trapped beneath the gum or bone. Your dentist will explain the procedure recommended for your specific tooth before treatment.
“After extracting the tooth, the doctor will clean the extraction site of any debris.”
Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Patients should expect to rest for the remainder of the day following their wisdom teeth extraction. Though regular activities can be resumed as soon as the day after, patients should refrain from any strenuous activity for at least a week following their procedure. Otherwise, they run the risk of overexertion and dislodging the blood clot. Our team will provide patients with a customized recovery plan for their specific procedures.
Complications following wisdom teeth extraction are rare as long as patients follow this plan. However, patients should contact us immediately if they are experiencing any of the following:
- Blood or pus in nasal discharge
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Excessive bleeding
- Fever
- Foul taste in the mouth
- Persistent numbness or loss of feeling
- Pus in or oozing from the socket
- Severe pain that does not subside
- Swelling that does not subside after two or three days
“Though regular activities can be resumed as soon as the day after, patients should refrain from any strenuous activity for at least a week following their procedure.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions? Look Here
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. Some wisdom teeth are healthy, properly positioned, fully erupted, functional, and easy to keep clean. In those situations, extraction may not be necessary. Your dentist can evaluate your wisdom teeth with an examination and appropriate imaging and recommend whether removal or monitoring is the better option.
How much does wisdom teeth extraction cost?
The cost depends on the number of wisdom teeth being removed, their position and complexity, and the type of anesthesia or sedation used. After evaluating your teeth, our team can explain the recommended treatment and expected cost before your procedure. Ask about current consultation, insurance, and payment options when you schedule your appointment.
How long does wisdom teeth extraction take?
The length of the procedure depends on how many wisdom teeth are being removed and whether any are impacted. A straightforward extraction may take less time than a surgical extraction involving an impacted tooth. Your dentist can give you a more specific estimate after examining your wisdom teeth and reviewing your imaging.
Will I be able to drive myself home after wisdom teeth extraction?
This varies from person to person and the type of anesthesia used. Some patients who were only under a local anesthetic may feel alert enough to drive back home after their procedure, while some may not. However, those who have undergone general anesthesia will need to make arrangements for someone to drive them to and from the operation.
Can I go to work or school after wisdom teeth removal?
Many patients need some time to rest after the procedure, especially during the first day. Your recovery will depend on the complexity of the extraction and how you respond to treatment. Your dentist will provide instructions about when you can safely resume work, school, exercise, and other normal activities.
Will I be in pain after wisdom teeth extraction?
You should expect some pain and discomfort following the procedure. However, this is generally manageable through administering ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. The dentist may prescribe you antibiotics, depending on the severity of your procedure.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth extraction?
You may not have much of an appetite after getting your wisdom teeth extracted. Still, it is essential to stay hydrated and eat well. Since you do not want to dislodge your blood clot or stitches, stick to soft, low- or no-chew foods for the first few days. Refrain from eating anything hot or hard. Do not drink from a straw or slurp too vigorously from a spoon.
How old do I need to be to have my wisdom teeth extracted?
Wisdom teeth can be extracted at any age, depending on the severity and type of impaction. However, complications are less likely in younger adults.
Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from my wisdom teeth extraction?
You should exercise caution to avoid dislodging your blood clot or stitches for the first week. This means avoiding smoking, spitting, drinking from a straw, or anything else that might disrupt your healing.
Get the Care You Need for Your Wisdom Teeth
Whether you’re experiencing pain, dealing with an impacted wisdom tooth, or simply want to know whether your third molars should be removed, an evaluation can help you understand your options. Our team can assess your wisdom teeth, explain the recommended treatment, and answer your questions about the procedure and recovery.
Dental inlays and onlays
Root Canal and Crown to Save a Cracked tooth
Routine Dental Procedures
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Dental Terminology
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is a substance that medical professionals administer in various forms (gas, injection or pill) that helps patients not feel pain or sensations during surgical operations.
Asymptomatic Wisdom Teeth
Asymptomatic wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that show no symptoms of irritation, inflammation or overcrowding the mouth that deem extraction.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
A wisdom tooth that does not have enough room to fully erupt into the mouth and becomes trapped beneath the gum, bone, or another tooth.
Cysts – Fluid Filled Sacs
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can also contain gas or puss and can occur anywhere on the body, even in or around the mouth/teeth.
Dry Socket
A dry socket can occur after pulling a tooth out and seeing white bone in said socket. Other symptoms of dry socket include bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Oral Surgery
Oral surgery is a type of surgery that focuses on the mouth, jaw, gums or teeth. Oral surgery can repair, enhance or correct multiple issues in the mouth.
Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis refers to the inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the crown of a partially-erupted tooth.
Third Molars
The third molars are also known as the wisdom teeth and typically require removal in order to prevent pain and other issues in the mouth.
Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Wisdom teeth impaction occurs when the wisdom teeth are under the gums enough that an individual cannot reach them with a toothbrush.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2023
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2023
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2023
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