Expert Services for Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Addison, IL
Do you need wisdom teeth extractions? Even though most people are born with wisdom teeth, it’s usually necessary to have these third molars removed. Every patient should consult with their dentist to determine whether the wisdom teeth may lead to complications in the future.
At First Dental Image, we offer simple tooth extractions as well as wisdom teeth removal surgery if the situation is more complicated. We invite you to schedule a consultation so we can look at digital images to determine whether you need wisdom teeth removal.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal is Often Necessary
For most people, the wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 – 25. It’s common for patients to have 4 wisdom teeth, but some people only have 2. Even though this third set of molars is present, the wisdom teeth can often lead to problems such as overcrowding, infection, impaction, or damage to the neighboring teeth.
In most cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended as a preventive treatment. Since these molars often lead to infections and complications, it makes sense to remove them in advance to avoid bigger issues in the future.
These are some of the most common complications if wisdom teeth aren’t removed:
- Impaction: Too often, there isn’t enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow in. So, they stay below the gumline. Having these teeth impacted in the back of the mouth can lead to problems such as cysts, infection, and pain.
- Overcrowding: If there isn’t enough room in the mouth, then having the wisdom teeth grow in will put pressure on the other teeth – causing them to move out of alignment. This overcrowding issue is especially a concern for people who have had orthodontic treatments. After straightening the teeth with braces or Invisalign, you don’t want the wisdom teeth to move everything out of place.
- Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can be very difficult to clean. You won’t be able to brush and floss properly, which means there is a high risk of gum disease. If food particles and bacteria are in the gums and around the wisdom teeth, then it can lead to serious infections.
Wisdom tooth extraction is most often recommended proactively. However, there are times when an emergency treatment is needed in older adults. For example, they might require an infected wisdom tooth extraction as an immediate treatment.
How the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process Works
First, we will have a consultation and examination to look at the size and position of your wisdom teeth. Digital imaging is helpful so the dentist can evaluate the overall picture. If it is determined that your wisdom teeth need to be removed, then the dentist will talk to you about different treatment options.
Our local dental office makes sure that you are comfortable during the appointment. Additionally, we offer detailed post-operative recovery instructions so that you can have a fast and smooth recovery.
For more information about wisdom teeth extractions close to you, call our professional team at First Dental Image. We are always here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Most dentists recommend having the wisdom teeth proactively removed between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, wisdom tooth removal is necessary later in adulthood if it wasn’t done earlier in life.
Plan on a couple of days for recovery. During the first few days, you will need to take it easy, and you will notice a bit of swelling and discomfort. Full healing usually requires 1 – 2 weeks.
The best solution is to stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days. You can start reintroducing solid foods after a few days. Avoid drinking out of a straw or sucking on candy or popsicles because the sucking motion can dislodge the clots from the sockets.