Wisdom Teeth Removal

Why do I need my wisdom teeth removed?

There are a few reasons that people need their wisdom teeth removed, but it basically all comes down to this: typically, there isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate the wisdom teeth. Because of the lack of space, wisdom teeth can cause major problems for the rest of your teeth when they erupt. There are three main reasons that you may need your wisdom teeth taken out: 

• Your mouth simply isn’t large enough to accommodate another set of teeth. 
• They grow in at an angle, pressing on the neighboring teeth.
• Or, your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning that your wisdom teeth get trapped in your jawbone or gums. Impacted wisdom teeth are often very painful.

How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?

While most dentists will suggest you remove your wisdom teeth preventatively, there are other surefire signs that you need your wisdom teeth removed. 

• Our doctors told you to remove them preventatively. We will look at your x-rays and determine whether or not your wisdom teeth will be problematic.  
• If you are experiencing any pain, swelling, or stiffness in your mouth around where your wisdom teeth are erupting, they will need to be removed. While they are erupting, they can leave openings in your gums that leave you susceptible to infection.
• If the pressure from your erupting wisdom teeth is painful, it may be putting harmful stress on the surrounding teeth and can adversely impact all of the surrounding teeth, causing your other teeth to move. 
• If you have an impacted wisdom tooth, there is a risk that a cyst can form around the impacted tooth, which can harm the jawbone and the rest of your teeth.  

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, call Riverbend Family Dental immediately to schedule an appointment. 

What to expect during your wisdom tooth removal

In most cases, we will use nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, or a local anesthetic. Your Meridian dentist at Riverbend Family Dental will discuss your options with you and guide you in choosing the best one for you and your long-term oral health. Wisdom teeth removal surgery typically lasts around one hour.  

After your surgery, someone will need to drive you home, as you will not be able to do this by yourself.

How long will it take to recover?

After wisdom tooth removal surgery, people generally can resume normal activity after the first day. You will most likely experience pain at the extraction site, and some patients experience blood at the site. Sipping should be avoided to ensure that the clot is not removed. A diet consisting solely of soft foods will be required for the first couple days or until the pain subsides.  

We will give you detailed care instructions following your extraction. If you have any questions about your aftercare or are experiencing severe pain after your procedure, please call our office immediately. 

Why choose us for your Meridian wisdom tooth removal?

Our doctors is devoted to ensuring both your safety and your comfort before, during, and after your surgery. We understand that surgery can be a frightening prospect for some, and at Riverbend Family Dental, it is our goal to make your experience as stress-free as possible by providing you with our best care. 

Our whole team are here for anything you may need before, during, and after your surgery. During an initial examination that includes x-rays, you will discuss the problems you are having with your wisdom teeth, the type of anesthesia you want, and any questions you have about the specifics of the procedure as it pertains to your individual surgery. 

If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, don’t wait any longer. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.