Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Each year, millions of Americans undergo wisdom teeth extraction, which is a preventive measure that can make more room for your permanent teeth and reduce the risk of future oral health problems. At Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Danbury, Southbury, and Ridgefield, Connecticut, dental implant specialists Roger Badwal, DMD, MD, and Anthony Camillo, DMD, regularly perform wisdom teeth extraction to restore patients’ chewing abilities and comfort. Call Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons today or book an appointment online to find out if wisdom teeth extraction is right for you.

What is wisdom teeth extraction?

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery for many dental patients. During treatment, the team at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons pulls the teeth at the very back of your mouth from their sockets. Wisdom teeth extraction protects your remaining teeth, while reducing the risk of future problems.

The team understands that wisdom teeth extraction can be stressful, so they strive to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, beginning with the consultation.

Who can benefit from wisdom teeth extraction?

The team at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons might recommend wisdom teeth extraction if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Pain at the back of your mouth
• Food or debris stuck in your wisdom teeth
• Gum disease around your molars
• Cavities
• Cyst at the back of your mouth

You might also benefit from wisdom teeth extraction if you have crowded teeth that are difficult to brush and floss.

At what age should someone undergo wisdom teeth extraction?

The team at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons performs wisdom teeth extraction on adults and teens. However, they typically recommend undergoing treatment in your early 20s, when your wisdom teeth start breaking through the gumline. During this stage, your teeth are still forming, so they’re easier to remove.

What does wisdom teeth extraction involve?

The team performs wisdom teeth extraction during an outpatient procedure. First, they perform an oral exam and take a series of oral X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. Next, they numb your mouth with a local anesthetic or use IV sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the process. They expose the wisdom teeth at the back of your mouth with small incisions.

When your wisdom teeth are visible, the team loosens and removes them. Then, they clean your empty socket, stitch the incision closed, and move you to a recovery room for observation. Once the anesthetic wears off, a friend or family member can drive you home.

What is recovery like after wisdom teeth extraction?

After wisdom teeth extraction, it’s important to take it easy and get plenty of rest. The team at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons suggests:

• Avoiding strenuous activity for 72 hours
• Placing ice on your cheek to ease swelling
• Keeping your surgical sites clean
• Brushing your teeth
• Taking any medications as prescribed

Your mouth should feel back to normal within a week. If you develop a fever or symptoms persist, contact Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons immediately.

Call Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons today or book an appointment online to learn more about wisdom teeth extraction..