Third Molar Extraction
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are typically the final teeth to develop in the human mouth, appearing between the ages of 17 and 21. Unfortunately, many people experience issues when these teeth emerge due to a lack of space in the jaw. In most cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended to prevent problems such as crowding, gum infections, tooth decay, periodontal disease and cyst formation. Early removal can save you from pain and complications down the road.
At Alpine Surgical Arts in Boise, ID, Dr. Haghighi and Dr. Rowan, both board-certified surgeons, specialize in wisdom tooth extractions. With years of experience and a compassionate team, we are dedicated to providing a positive and comfortable surgical experience. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
Why Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Not everyone will experience problems with their wisdom teeth, but for most, extraction is necessary due to space constraints and the risk of complications. The best time for wisdom tooth removal is typically in the early to mid-teen years, as recovery is generally faster, and the teeth are less developed. However, wisdom teeth can still be removed at any stage of adulthood.
Your dentist will monitor the development of your wisdom teeth at routine checkups and refer you to an oral surgeon when extraction becomes necessary. If you're experiencing any discomfort, pain, or swelling between visits, reach out to us for a consultation.
Sign Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
Many patients experience symptoms when their wisdom teeth begin to emerge, including:
- Pain or Discomfort: Severe pain in the back of the mouth is a common sign that your wisdom teeth may be impacted, erupting at an odd angle, or causing damage to neighboring teeth. This discomfort can radiate into the jaw, neck, and ears.
- Irritated Gums: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause the surrounding gum tissue to swell and become tender, leading to difficulty cleaning the area properly or even gum disease.
- Limited Jaw Movement: If wisdom teeth are crowding a nearby tooth or causing misalignment, you may find it harder to open your mouth fully.
- Bad breath or bad taste: Bacteria can accumulate around impacted teeth, leading to an unpleasant taste in your mouth and persistent bad breath.
- Sinus Congestion: Upper wisdom teeth can put pressure on the sinus cavities, leading to congestion, sinus pain, or headaches.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon at Alpine Surgical Arts. Dr. Haghighi and Dr. Rowan are experienced oral & maxillofacial surgeons who can evaluate your wisdom teeth and create a treatment plan to restore your oral health.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery
Before your wisdom tooth extraction, you will receive a comprehensive consultation from one of our board-certified oral surgeons who will assess your oral health, review your medical history, and discuss the symptoms you may be experiencing. They will take the time to answer any questions you may have and explain the surgical procedure in detail, including any pre-surgical preparation.
On the day of your procedure, anesthesia will be administered to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the surgery. The type of anesthesia used will depend on your specific case and the complexity of the extraction. IV sedation is commonly used for wisdom teeth extraction, as it allows patients to be in a sleep-like state during the procedure, with minimal awareness of the surgery itself. You may drift in and out of sleep and will likely have little to no memory of the surgery afterward.
For wisdom teeth that have already erupted through the gums, a straightforward extraction with dental forceps will be performed. This type of extraction is typically quicker, as the tooth is more accessible. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or partially covered by bone, a more involved procedure is necessary. Your oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth, and in some cases, it may be necessary to split the tooth into sections or remove a portion of the surrounding bone. Once the tooth has been successfully removed, sutures will be placed to close the incision and promote healing.
Following the surgery, you will be provided with clear recovery instructions to help you heal properly and avoid complications. These instructions will outline how to care for the extraction sites, what medications to take, and how to reduce swelling. Preventing dry socket, a condition in which the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, is a key aspect of post-surgical care. Your oral surgeon will advise you on what to avoid, such as smoking, drinking through a straw, and rinsing your mouth vigorously, as these actions can interfere with healing.
Recovery times vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the oral surgery procedure. While some patients feel ready to resume normal activities within a few days, others may need a bit more time. Common symptoms after surgery include swelling, soreness, and some difficulty opening the mouth. These symptoms should gradually improve over time. Pain can be managed with prescribed medications and by using ice packs as directed. By following your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, you can expect a smooth recovery and return to your usual routine within a few days to a week.
Your Anesthesia Options
Depending on your procedure, you will receive one of the following forms of anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Hear From Our Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I prevent swelling after wisdom teeth extraction?
Swelling is a natural part of the healing process after a wisdom teeth removal procedure, but there are steps you can take to minimize it. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek, near the surgical area, for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24-48 hours can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Elevating your head while sleeping, by using extra pillows, can also decrease the swelling. It’s essential to avoid activities that could increase blood flow to the area, such as strenuous exercise, bending over, or heavy lifting, during the initial recovery period. Swelling typically peaks around the third day post-surgery but should gradually subside after that. If you experience swelling that worsens or does not improve after a few days, contact your oral surgeon, as this could indicate a complication.
2. How long should I wait to brush my teeth after wisdom tooth extraction?
It's recommended to avoid brushing your teeth for the first 24 hours after surgery to prevent disturbing the surgical site. After that, you can begin gently brushing your teeth, but be cautious around the extraction areas. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid vigorous brushing, which could dislodge the blood clot necessary for healing. When rinsing your mouth, use a gentle swishing motion with warm salt water (starting 24 hours after surgery) to clean your mouth without irritating the extraction sites. Continue brushing the rest of your teeth normally but take extra care to avoid the surgical area for at least a week or until your surgeon advises otherwise to avoid dry socket.
2. Can wisdom teeth removal cause sinus problems?
Yes, it’s possible for the removal of wisdom teeth, particularly in the upper jaw, to cause temporary sinus issues. The roots of upper wisdom teeth are often close to the sinus cavities, and in some cases, the removal of these teeth can create an opening between the mouth and the sinus. This can lead to symptoms such as sinus pressure, congestion, or even a sinus infection. Most patients will only experience mild symptoms that resolve on their own with proper post-operative care. Your oral surgeon may recommend specific instructions, such as avoiding blowing your nose or sneezing with excessive force in the first few days after surgery, to allow the sinus area to heal properly. If you notice prolonged or worsening sinus symptoms, contact your oral surgeon for further evaluation.
4. How do I know if I have an infection after wisdom teeth removal?
Signs of infection after wisdom tooth removal can include persistent pain that worsens over time instead of improving, swelling that continues beyond the typical healing period, and the presence of pus or a foul taste in your mouth. Additionally, a fever, chills, or increased redness around the extraction site may indicate an infection. You might also notice difficulty opening your mouth or a sensation of heat around the affected area. If you suspect an infection, it's essential to contact your oral surgeon immediately. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend further treatment to address the infection before it worsens.
Finding Better Smiles in Boise and Meridian, ID
When you come to Alpine Surgical Arts, you come to a practice that provides exceptional care by combining years of experience with compassion. Our offices in Boise and Meridian are ready to welcome you and guide you toward the smile you’ve been dreaming of. Contact our office to learn how oral surgery can help change your life while enhancing your oral health.