The hindmost molars located at the back corners of your mouth are known as wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth can erupt at any time between the late teens and early twenties. Sometimes, the wisdom teeth may not have sufficient room to erupt normally, resulting in impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth may be partially or fully trapped in the bone.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a host of complications. If our dentists near you determine that you’re at risk of these complications, then you’re likely to be scheduled for wisdom teeth removal in Summerland, BC.
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical extraction that’s conducted under appropriate anesthesia and sometimes sedation. Timely removal of impacted wisdom teeth that pose potential problems is essential for your continued oral well-being.
Should All Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Not all wisdom teeth require removal. If your wisdom teeth are completely healthy, fully erupted and positioned correctly, they don’t require extraction. However, if your wisdom teeth are fully or partially trapped within your jaw and pose a risk for problems, then extraction is on the cards.
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to an array of dental health complications, including:
- Damage to adjacent teeth. The wisdom teeth can push against the neighbouring molars leading to crowding.
- Decay. Partially erupted teeth are harder to clean, which increases the susceptibility to decay.
- Cysts. Wisdom teeth develop in sacs within the jawbone. If these sacs fill with fluid, then cysts can form. These cysts can damage the nerves, teeth and jawbone.
- Periodontal disease. Since they’re difficult to clean, partially erupted wisdom teeth can put an individual at a heightened risk for gum disease.
At Summerland Dental Centre, we only recommend wisdom teeth removal after carefully evaluating all these factors.
What to Expect
Our dentists in Summerland, BC, start by taking your dental x-rays to determine the location and type of impaction. The dentist then numbs your mouth to guarantee a pain-free experience and then makes a simple incision to access your tooth or several incisions to access all teeth. Most patients prefer to have all four wisdom teeth removed at the same time. However, we’re open to discussing other alternatives as you wish.
Once the teeth are removed, the dentist sutures the incision to allow the gums to heal. We’ll provide you with detailed instructions regarding wisdom teeth removal after-care. You may experience some bleeding and discomfort after your procedure. However, this should resolve after a couple of days.
Remember, wisdom teeth removal doesn’t mark the end of your dental care needs. We encourage our valued patients to schedule regular dental exams and cleanings with our dentists to experience ongoing care and professional support.
Are your wisdom teeth starting to cause you pain? You may require wisdom teeth removal in Summerland, BC. Get in touch with Summerland Dental Centre today to schedule a consultation.
