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Gainesville
1221 Sherwood Park Dr., NE
Gainesville, GA 30501
770-531-1075 » Email Us
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What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the
third molars, the last teeth to develop. They normally develop between the
ages of 15 and 25, but may not erupt due to lack of space in the mouth,
causing them to be "impacted." It is recommended that they be
removed as early as possible because younger patients usually have a less
extensive root system and shorter recovery period.
What are the potential problems caused by wisdom teeth and why do they
need to be removed?
- Erupted wisdom teeth are likely to decay and become infected because
their awkward position makes them difficult to care for properly.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and shifting of other teeth,
or even result in more serious problems such as tumors or cysts at the
site of impaction.
Wisdom teeth should be removed to avoid cavities, infection, pain, shifting
of teeth, and possibly destruction of healthy bone and teeth in later years.
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Panoramic radiography of four impacted third molors (wisdom teeth) |
What does impacted mean?
A tooth that does not break through the gum tissue is considered impacted.
Teeth can be impacted in either the gum or the bone. It will be determined
at your evaluation appointment whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or
erupted.
What are the risks and complications of having the wisdom teeth removed?
There is the potential for damage to the nerves that give sensation to the
lip, chin, and tongue as well as damage to the maxillary sinus. These problems
are rare and should not be cause for alarm.
Why is an evaluation appointment necessary?
During the evaluation appointment, Dr. Simonton will study the patient's
x-ray and examine the patient. A medical history is obtained, which will
include all previous surgeries, medications currently being taken, and any
allergies. It is important that this information be acquired prior to any
surgery being scheduled.
What is the procedure for extracting wisdom teeth?
Most procedures are performed in the office under IV sedation and usually
require approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
How long is the recovery period?
Each individual is different. But if the postoperative instructions are
followed, the majority of the pain and swelling should be gone in about
2 to 3 days. At the follow-up appointment 1 week after surgery, things should
essentially be back to normal. If patients smoke, drink through a straw,
or generally do not follow post-surgical instructions precisely, a dry socket
may develop.
What is a dry socket?
When the blood clot does not form or is lost from the extraction site, a
dry socket can occur, exposing the bone underneath and causing a dull throbbing
pain. This problem generally occurs when the patient smokes or drinks through
a straw, contrary to postoperative instructions. The treatment for a dry
socket is a medicated pack inserted in the extraction site to aid in healing.
Will there be any swelling?
Yes, a limited amount of swelling and bruising can be expected. It usually
subsides within a few days.
Will I need to have my stitches removed?
The sutures used will dissolve after a few days.
When and what can I eat after surgery?
You can eat whatever you feel like eating and should eat soon after surgery
so that you can take the prescribed medications. Soft foods are suggested
such as mashed potatoes or soup, and you should avoid sharp foods like potato
chips as they can irritate or injure the extraction site.
What medications will I be prescribed?
You will be given prescriptions for an antibiotic, a pain killer, and an
anti-nausea suppository.
What can I NOT do after surgery?
In order to avoid complications, patients should not drink through a
straw, consume alcohol, or spit for 1 week after surgery. There should
be no smoking for 2 weeks after surgery. These activities will prolong
the recovery period and can cause problems that require additional treatment.
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© 2005, Dr. Fred H. Simonton, III All rights
reserved.
by: Red Clay Interactive |
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