Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Carrollton, TX
Adding Space to Your Smile
Wisdom teeth are also referred to as third molars, and they are not necessary for food consumption anymore. In fact, they can actually be harmful to your oral health and overall well-being. Known to erupt during late adolescence or early adulthood, these teeth tend to cause much pain, resulting in patients requiring wisdom tooth extractions in Carrollton. At Epic Family Dentistry, our team is here to deliver the exceptional care individuals need to avoid continued discomfort and instead embrace healthier smiles. Call us if your wisdom teeth are beginning to erupt.
Why Choose Epic Family Dentistry for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Dental Insurance Welcome
- Dentist with Specialized Training to Ensure Comfort & Safety
- Sedation Dentistry Available
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are those that form toward the back of the mouth and were once necessary for early civilizations to consume coarser, denser foods like wild game. As time passed and changes to diets and human facial structure occurred, these teeth became more of a nuisance because of the lack of space inside the mouth.
Often, they erupt when a patient is between the ages of 16 and 25, but not all individuals experience difficulties. Some wisdom teeth erupt with no issues; however, for most, removing them is necessary, especially if potential infection or damage is a likely risk.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed. Some erupt through the gumline and have ample space, so they don’t press onto nearby teeth. But for those who are not so lucky, a dentist may recommend tooth removal for one of the following reasons:
- An infection is forming that puts nearby healthy teeth at risk for damage
- A cyst forms near the wisdom tooth
- These teeth are impacted beneath the gumline and press against healthy teeth (when impacted, these teeth tend to be at an angle)
- Wisdom teeth have partially erupted and made it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene
What to Expect From the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
How a person’s wisdom teeth erupt will determine how they should be removed. During a consultation with our team, we will examine a person’s mouth using X-rays and other diagnostic imaging techniques. This will help us to get a closer look at the positioning of the wisdom teeth and how best to approach their removal.
If wisdom teeth have partially erupted, we can use specialized instruments that are designed to lift and gently loosen each tooth until they detach fully from their sockets. If impaction is the reality, these teeth will be removed carefully as part of a surgical procedure. Incisions will be made to access each tooth, removing them in sections to avoid damaging the bone.
Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction
There are several steps a person must take after undergoing wisdom teeth extraction. It is strongly encouraged that individuals abide by the instructions provided to avoid the potential for a dry socket or other potential complications (i.e., increased pain, swelling, bleeding, etc.).
Some key tips to remember include:
- Using a cold compress to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Applying gauze to the surgical sites to try and reduce bleeding and encourage blood clots
- Avoiding straws and vigorous rinses, as too much pressure can result in dry sockets
- Waiting to engage in any kind of strenuous activity for at least the first week
- Not practicing unhealthy habits such as smoking or consuming excessive amounts of alcohol
- Getting plenty of rest the day of the procedure
- Taking necessary medications prescribed by a dentist or those that are over the counter