Oral Surgeon in Los Angeles: Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to grow in, usually in the late teens or early 20s, which is why they're called "wisdom" teeth. However, they often cause problems such as impaction and decay of neighboring teeth. An impacted wisdom tooth can occur when there isn't enough room in the jaw for it to grow straight up through the gum like a normal tooth, causing it to push against other teeth and possibly become blocked.

The constant pressure of an impacted wisdom tooth can cause the root of the adjacent molar to deteriorate, and it can create a passage for bacteria to cause gum disease. That's why it's often best to remove them before any problems arise. X-rays and a clinical exam can determine if removal is necessary, and the benefits and risks can be discussed with your dentist.

Wisdom tooth removal is a routine dental procedure that's usually done under local anesthesia and conscious sedation. After the procedure, there may be some swelling and soreness, but it can be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter medication. Post-operative instructions will be given to ensure proper healing.

If impacted wisdom teeth are not removed, they still need to be monitored to ensure they're not affecting the health of other teeth. While it's best to remove them before their roots are fully developed, they can still be safely removed in adulthood. So, if you're experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, it's best to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action.

Top 5 Things to know about Wisdom Teeth

If you're curious about wisdom teeth, here are five important things to know. First of all, these molars are technically known as third molars and usually develop between ages 17 and 25, around the same time people are said to gain a moderate amount of wisdom.

Most adults have four wisdom teeth located at the back of the mouth on both the upper and lower jaws. However, many people don't have enough room for them to emerge properly, leading to impacted teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including pain, bacterial infection, periodontal disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Cysts can also form, which can lead to bone loss in the area around the wisdom teeth.

The good news is that removing impacted wisdom teeth is a routine procedure. Dentists or oral surgeons can extract these teeth in the office using local anesthesia and conscious sedation. Afterward, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling, but they can manage it with over-the-counter medication and cold compresses.

Overall, understanding these key points can help you make informed decisions about your dental health and whether to have your wisdom teeth removed.

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