01 May Three Reasons We Remove Wisdom Teeth
If you have reached your late teens or early twenties, you may have been told that you need to have your third molars (also known as wisdom teeth) removed. These erupt later than your other pearly whites, meaning there may not be enough room for them to fully come in. Because of this, your dentist may recommend removing them before they cause overcrowding or become impacted. When you need to have your third molars removed, the team at Great River OMS in Dubuque, IA, is here to help.
They Have Become Impacted
When your wisdom teeth do not have enough space to fully erupt, they can become impacted. They may not fully erupt above the gumlines, causing the area to become swollen or uncomfortable for you. Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the most common reasons for extraction. You may notice a problem if the area swells, you have more headaches, or you have trouble chewing. We can also take X-rays to get a closer look at the area before planning for extractions.
Avoid Overcrowding And Discomfort
In some cases, removing your third molars may be a part of your orthodontic treatment plan. They may affect the process of straightening out your teeth, as they can lead to your smile becoming overcrowded. We can work with your orthodontic team to determine when the best time to extract them may be. The best time may be before or during treatment, depending on your needs. If you leave your third molars in during orthodontic care and have them removed later, your teeth can shift out of place and require you to wear braces again.
Protect Your Smile
Overall, removing these structures can protect your smile from damage in the future. If your third molars are coming in and you have noticed discomfort, swelling, or aches around the area, you can let your dentist know and make a plan for removal. The process is straightforward, and recovery may take a few days. We use sedation during the extraction to ensure your comfort throughout your visit. The teeth are carefully removed, and the area is closed. Your oral surgery team will give you specific instructions for post-operative care, so remember to follow that precisely to avoid dry socket and heal quickly. If you have any questions, you can always call your oral surgery team.
Plan Your Oral Surgery With Our Team
We understand that needing oral surgery can be worrisome for our patients, and we’re here to make the experience as comfortable as possible. If you have been told you need to have your wisdom teeth removed or need another oral surgery, contact the team at Great River OMS in Dubuque, IA, today at 563-557-1440.