Wisdom teeth

Understanding Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge as the last set of teeth in the back of your mouth, situated behind the second molars. They generally finish developing during the late teenage years or early twenties, a period often linked with the onset of maturity and the acquisition of wisdom.

What is an Impacted Tooth?

An impacted tooth occurs when, despite the usual growth of 32 permanent adult teeth, the jaws often lack sufficient space for the four wisdom teeth. In such cases, these teeth are termed “impacted” as they are unable to emerge into the appropriate position for chewing and cleaning due to space constraints.

Types of Impactions

To assess the need for wisdom tooth removal, a consultation is necessary. During this process, a specialized x-ray (panorex) of your mouth and jaws will be taken. This helps determine whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, if there’s sufficient space for them to emerge, and the level of difficulty associated with their removal.

Wisdom Teeth Dilemma: Is Removal the Right Call?

Removing impacted wisdom teeth is crucial when there’s insufficient space for full eruption, recommended before the root structure fully develops, typically between ages 12 to early twenties. Problems increase after 30, and potential issues include:

Infection:

Commonly, the main clinical issue is pericoronitis, a localized gum infection. Insufficient space for complete eruption can lead to irritation and infection in the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth. This results in recurring pain, swelling, and difficulties with chewing or swallowing.

Cyst Formation:

Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jawbone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jawbone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.

Possible Crowding:

Impacted wisdom teeth may cause crowding, especially after braces. Removal is preventive, aimed at avoiding long-term damage to teeth, gums, and the jawbone, even without an immediate issue.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth:

Insufficient space for cleaning around a wisdom tooth can negatively impact the adjacent second molar. This can lead to gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.

Delaying Wisdom Teeth Removal: What's the Risk?

As wisdom teeth mature, longer roots and denser jawbones develop. Removing impacted wisdom teeth in one’s thirties, forties, or beyond can result in a prolonged post-operative course and a higher complication rate. Treating complications becomes more challenging and less predictable compared to younger patients. Healing is slower, and the risk of infection increases. If impacted wisdom teeth aren’t removed in the teens or early twenties, waiting until a localized problem arises may be advisable. Generally, treatment in the teens or early twenties leads to faster, more predictable healing with fewer complications.

Inside the Removal Day Chronicles: What to Expect?

Many individuals choose sedation for comfort during wisdom teeth removal. The consultation discusses anesthesia options, and the surgery is conducted with proper anesthesia, a trained staff, and modern monitoring equipment.

On the day of the procedure, medications are administered to minimize pain and swelling. It’s important to have a responsible adult accompany you, and the surgery typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, with a total office time of around 90 minutes. Advances in medicine and technology contribute to a faster healing process.

Before surgery, it’s crucial not to eat or drink for at least 6 hours to ensure safety during anesthesia. Prescription medications, excluding water, are allowed. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in rescheduling the procedure. Pain medication prescriptions can be filled in advance for convenience.

On the day of the surgery, if sedation is chosen, an IV is usually placed in the left arm for optimal medication delivery. Local anesthesia follows for added comfort. Following the procedure, it’s advised to rest, and having someone available to assist you at home is recommended.

If stitches are needed, they typically dissolve in 3 to 5 days, eliminating the need for removal. You might feel swollen gums pulling away from your teeth during the normal recovery, which usually subsides in a few days

After the local anesthesia wears off, you may need prescription pain medication. Start with non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (Advil®) to assess pain relief. If needed, begin the prescribed pain medication. The local anesthesia may last until the next day but should not be confused with nerve injury.

Initiate your post-operative diet with clear liquids like jello and broths, gradually progressing as your body allows. Avoid dairy products on the surgery day to prevent nausea and vomiting. If given antibiotics and taking birth control pills, be aware that the pills might become less effective; take necessary precautions.

Post-Surgery Anticipation: Navigating What Comes Next

On the day after surgery, you may experience minor bleeding and pain. Cover your pillowcase to prevent blood stains. Pain sensations can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, and individual reactions differ. Expect swelling, peaking on the second day and subsiding by the third day; using ice helps minimize swelling. Apply moist heat on the second and third days for jaw muscle relaxation. Limit activities for a few days, follow post-operative instructions closely for comfort, and allow time for healing before resuming regular activities. Most patients feel on the road to recovery within 3 to 5 days.

How Much Does The Procedure Cost, And Does Insurance Cover It?

The cost of your treatment depends on various factors, such as the complexity of tooth extraction and the most suitable anesthesia for your case. In your consultation, the surgeon will assess your x-rays, conduct an examination, and decide on the optimal anesthesia method before providing an accurate estimate. Insurance coverage for a specific surgical procedure varies among insurance companies. The New Image Dentistry’s office staff will assist you in maximizing your insurance coverage for the treatment.

Addressing Pre-Surgery Inquiries

If you have any questions before your surgery, we encourage you to discuss your specific situation in detail during the consultation. Feel free to ask any inquiries you may have, and if new questions arise after the consultation, please reach out to the doctor’s office to speak with one of the patient care coordinators.

On the day of your treatment, it’s essential not to consume any food or drink before the surgery, as having anything in your stomach can pose risks for serious anesthetic complications.

ORAL EXAMINATION

During the oral examination, our doctors utilize x-rays to assess the wisdom teeth's position and predict potential problems. Early evaluation and treatment, usually starting in the mid-teenage years, have been shown to yield superior outcomes. Dentists, orthodontists, or oral and maxillofacial surgeons typically perform the initial evaluations.

REMOVAL

Wisdom teeth removal is often done under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia), or general anesthesia. The options and associated surgical risks, such as sensory nerve damage or sinus complications, will be thoroughly discussed with you before the procedure. After the removal, the gums are sutured, and you'll rest under supervision until ready to go home. Your postoperative kit will include instructions, pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment for suture removal. If you have any further questions, feel free to call us at Irving Park Phone Number 847-757-2600.

Our services prioritize safety, utilizing modern monitoring equipment, and our staff is experienced in anesthesia techniques.

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Wisdom Teeth