Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Dallas, TX

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

The last three molars in the back of your mouth are known as your wisdom teeth. They got their name since they typically come out later in life when a person is “wiser” with age. Interestingly, however, most humans no longer require these final molars.

Since we process and cook our foods, we have a softer diet that doesn’t need us to grind as much. Our jaws have also become much smaller than in the past, meaning some people don’t even have enough room in their mouths to accommodate their wisdom teeth. If left alone, they can end up causing issues later on.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

It’s actually a misconception that wisdom teeth always need to be removed; some people do have mouths that are big enough to accommodate the extra molars. However, wisdom teeth do need to be removed if they become impacted or cause any of these symptoms:

• Pain in the back of your mouth
• Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
• Stiffness or pain in your jaw
• Constant sinus issues
• Overcrowded or crooked teeth
• Cysts near the wisdom teeth
• Repeated tooth infections and cavities

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Your wisdom tooth extraction will be performed in a certain way depending on how it’s positioned in your mouth. During your initial examination, our team will assess your situation and determine the proper approach for removing it. We’ll first completely numb your mouth and provide you with a sedative to keep you relaxed. Then, we’ll either separate the wisdom tooth from your gums with an instrument known as an elevator or we’ll divide your tooth into pieces to surgically extract them one piece at a time. Our team will walk you through the details of your procedure before starting, and you’ll have specific guidelines on how to prepare for your visit.

Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After your wisdom teeth are removed, you should make time to relax for the next couple of days. Keep your head elevated and use an ice pack at regular intervals to lessen swelling. When you eat, stick to soft foods only and chew with the other side of your mouth. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water while your mouth is recovering. If you’ve been prescribed any pain medicine, follow the instructions carefully; missing a dose could make it harder to soothe the pain later on.