Extracting a wisdom tooth is a standard oral surgery used to remove a problematic wisdom tooth.
When a wisdom tooth is impacted or lacks enough space to erupt from the gums, it can cause severe pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and gums. When you consult a dentist with these complications, they may recommend that the tooth be extracted.
Sometimes, a wisdom tooth is removed before it erupts to protect your oral health and prevent potential complications. Wisdom tooth extraction is an invasive dental procedure that must be performed correctly to avoid possible complications like damage to surrounding teeth and infection.
The process of wisdom tooth extraction can be intimidating for some people. Therefore, you must consult with a skilled dentist. At Washington Dental, we offer safe and reliable dental care services for all our clients in Carson, CA.
An Overview Of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Your wisdom teeth are the third or last molars to grow in the adult tooth set. These teeth are located at the back of your mouth and typically develop between seventeen and twenty-five years old. Not all individuals grow wisdom teeth. Dentists consider wisdom teeth vestigial, and research shows they are not necessary for modern oral function.
Because these molars grow later in life, there is often not enough room on the jaw for proper eruption. As a result, wisdom teeth may erupt partially, erupt in the wrong direction, or remain under the gums, causing swelling, pain, and pressure on surrounding teeth.
For this reason, dentists often recommend removing these teeth before they erupt. Routine dental visits allow early detection of impacted wisdom teeth during adolescence, which helps protect the surrounding teeth and prevent complications.
Reasons For The Extraction Of A Wisdom Tooth
Your dentist may recommend extracting a wisdom tooth during routine exams or when symptoms occur. Common reasons for extraction include:
- Impacted tooth: The tooth fails to erupt fully from the gums.
- Crooked eruption: Wisdom teeth may erupt sideways due to limited space.
- Gum disease: Impacted teeth can trap food particles that inflame the gums.
- Cavities and tooth decay: Poor positioning allows bacteria to accumulate.
- Severe pain: Pressure on the gums and jaw causes discomfort.
- Orthodontic concerns: Wisdom teeth can shift surrounding teeth and affect alignment.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure
During the initial consultation, the dentist performs an exam and may take x-rays to assess the location and condition of the wisdom teeth. If the tooth is painful, impacted, or poses a risk to surrounding structures, extraction will be recommended.
Before the procedure, you must disclose medical conditions and medications to ensure safety. The extraction process includes:
Because wisdom tooth extraction is surgical, anesthesia is used to manage discomfort. Options may include local anesthesia, sedation anesthesia, or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the procedure.
After numbing the gums, the dentist will:
- Make an incision in the gum to expose the tooth and bone.
- Remove bone blocking access to the tooth.
- Section the tooth into smaller pieces if necessary.
- Remove the tooth.
- Clean the extraction site.
- Stitch the area and place gauze to control bleeding.
After-Care Instructions For Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Although you may return home immediately after surgery, normal activity should not resume until anesthesia wears off. Your dentist will provide after-care instructions to support healing, such as:
Touching the extraction site can introduce bacteria and interfere with healing. Avoid probing the area, even if it feels swollen or uncomfortable.
Slight bleeding is normal. You can manage bleeding by gently biting clean gauze for up to thirty minutes. If bleeding persists, a moistened tea bag can help due to the clotting effect of tannic acid.
Pain commonly develops as anesthesia fades. Your dentist may recommend pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications. Applying ice packs can also reduce inflammation.
Because extraction is surgical, your body needs time to recover. Avoid strenuous activity for at least twenty-four hours. Healing time varies:
- Upper jaw extractions typically allow a quicker return to activity.
- Lower jaw extractions may require up to ten days due to complexity.
Soft, nutrient-rich foods help protect the extraction site and support healing. Recommended options include:
- Blended soups.
- Mashed potatoes.
- Smoothies without seeds.
Avoid:
- Spicy foods.
- Crunchy foods.
- Hard foods.
- Alcohol.
Avoid brushing for several hours after surgery. Rinse gently with saltwater, then resume brushing with caution using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Antiseptic mouthwash may also be recommended.
Some cases require stitches, which may dissolve naturally or be removed within a week. Mild irritation is normal unless accompanied by severe pain or infection.
Swelling near the cheeks, mouth, and eyes may continue for several days. Ice packs should be used consistently while awake.
Tobacco significantly slows healing and increases the risk of dry socket. Smoking should be avoided after the procedure.
Benefits Of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Removing problematic wisdom teeth can provide several benefits:
- Fewer orthodontic complications: Prevents shifting and overcrowding.
- Protection of neighboring teeth: Reduces pressure and risk of decay.
- Pain prevention: Eliminates pressure and inflammation from impacted teeth.
- Lower risk of periodontal disease: Prevents food trapping and bacterial buildup.
Complications Associated With The Extraction Of A Wisdom Tooth
Although common and generally safe, wisdom tooth extraction can involve complications such as:
- Severe pain and swelling: Should improve within forty-eight hours.
- Nerve injury: Temporary or, rarely, permanent numbness may occur.
- Dry socket: Occurs when the blood clot is lost from the socket.
- Limited mouth opening: Often temporary and treatable.
- Sinus opening: A possible risk when extracting upper wisdom teeth.
- Infection: May cause swelling, fever, or bad taste.
- Anesthesia complications: Allergic reactions may vary in severity.
Find A Skilled General Dentist Near Me
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to develop, and when they lack adequate space to erupt, they can become impacted and lead to dental complications. Early extraction can help prevent pain, infection, and misalignment. Following proper after-care supports healing and reduces risks such as dry sockets or infection.
If you need wisdom tooth extraction in Carson, CA, our team at Washington Dental is here to help. Schedule a consultation to learn more about safe, effective treatment options.