Wisdom Teeth Extraction Oral Examination
With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Khayat can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctors are trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.
Please explain the reasons for removing my wisdom teeth.
If your third molars do not have enough space to fully emerge in your mouth, it can lead to various issues. It is recommended to remove impacted wisdom teeth before their roots are fully developed, which can happen as early as 12 or 13 for some patients, while others may not need removal until their early twenties. Problems tend to arise more frequently after the age of 30 if wisdom teeth are not removed. Some potential issues that can arise from not removing your wisdom teeth include:
Infection:
Pericoronitis, a localized gum infection, is the most common clinical issue we encounter. When there is not enough space for the wisdom tooth to fully emerge, the surrounding gum tissue can become inflamed and infected, leading to recurring pain, swelling, and difficulties with chewing and swallowing.
Cyst Formation:
Non-infectious diseases can develop due to impacted wisdom teeth, such as cysts which are fluid-filled "balloons" in the jaw bone that can destroy surrounding bone and teeth if left untreated. It is important to remove wisdom teeth during the teenage years to prevent complications like tumors, although these are rare.
Possible Crowding:
Having impacted wisdom teeth can lead to crowding of your teeth, especially in the front, particularly the lower front teeth. This is often seen after a patient has had braces. There are various reasons why teeth may become crowded after braces or in early adulthood, with retained impacted wisdom teeth being one possible factor. Even if you are not currently experiencing any issues, it is recommended to have them removed to prevent potential long-term damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw bone.
Adjacent teeth may be damaged.
Insufficient space to clean around the wisdom tooth can lead to negative effects on the tooth in front, the second molar, such as gum disease, bone loss, and decay.
What are the consequences of not having my wisdom teeth removed during my teenage or young adult years?
As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.
What occurs during the day wisdom teeth are extracted?
Most individuals choose to be sedated during the removal of their wisdom teeth to avoid experiencing the procedure. Anesthesia options will be discussed during your consultation to ensure your comfort during outpatient surgery. Our office staff is trained and experienced in providing various types of anesthesia in a safe environment with modern monitoring equipment. Regular inspections are conducted by the Board of Dental Examiners to ensure the safety and quality of our Surgical Care Team, office facilities, and doctors.
On the day of your procedure, you will receive medications to reduce post-operative pain and swelling. We recommend having a parent or responsible adult accompany you to the office and stay with you for the rest of the day. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, with a total office visit time of around 90 minutes. Advanced medical techniques allow for rapid healing and minimal discomfort after wisdom tooth removal, with state-of-the-art sterilization and infection control measures in place.
It is crucial to fast for at least 6 hours before your surgery (excluding necessary medications with a sip of water) to reduce the risk of complications. Eating or drinking anything before surgery may lead to anesthesia-related issues. If you do not follow these guidelines, your procedure may need to be rescheduled. Pain medication prescriptions can be filled in advance for your convenience. During the procedure, we will ensure your comfort and administer local anesthesia before you head home to rest.
Stitches, if needed, will dissolve on their own in 3 to 5 days, and any gum swelling or discomfort should subside within a few days. After the local anesthesia wears off, you may require prescription pain medication. We recommend starting with non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen before moving on to other pain medication if needed. Clear liquids are recommended for your post-operative diet, avoiding dairy products to prevent nausea and vomiting.
If you are prescribed antibiotics and take birth control pills, be aware that the effectiveness of the birth control pills may be reduced, so take appropriate precautions.
How much does it cost to have a wisdom tooth removed and is it typically covered by insurance?
The cost of your treatment will be based on various factors, such as the complexity of tooth removal and the type of anesthesia needed. The surgeon will assess your x-rays, conduct an examination, and recommend the most suitable anesthesia during your consultation. Please note that insurance coverage for surgical procedures varies among providers. Our office staff will assist you in maximizing your insurance benefits for your treatment.
Before surgery, what should I do if I have any questions?
At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Wisdom Oral Surgery & Dental Implants Office Phone Number408-723-4080 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.
