- What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- Am I A Candidate for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- How Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Performed?
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions Reviews
- What can I expect after wisdom tooth extractions?
- Does Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Recovery Following Oral Surgery
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Preserve Your Health and Smile
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Related Posts
What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
An individual's final four molars that commonly emerge during the late teen years are called wisdom teeth. Found at the furthermost rear point of each side of each arch, wisdom teeth (also referred to as the third molars) frequently don't have enough room to grow in completely, are troublesome to keep clean and healthy, and may require removal to safeguard overall oral wellness. Wisdom teeth can be impacted (stuck in the gum tissues or jawbone), poorly aligned, or unable to emerge as they should, causing a variety of dental disorders. Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery offers wisdom teeth extractions for Germantown, Arlington, Memphis, and surrounding Tennessee communities to enhance dental wellness and safeguard against jaw pain and deterioration. When you or someone in your family has aching or ingrown wisdom teeth, call your nearest location to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sexton, Dr. Weiskopf, or Dr. Russ to learn more about your treatment options.
What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Removing impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can help you avoid a variety of dental issues and ensure long-term well-being. Here are some of the key benefits of wisdom tooth removal:
- Prevents overcrowding and misalignment of other teeth
- Reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Alleviates pain and discomfort caused by impacted teeth
- Avoids the formation of cysts or tumors around the wisdom teeth
- Enhances overall oral hygiene by making it easier to clean your teeth
Am I A Candidate for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Generally, third molar removals are recommended for young adults who are between the ages of 17 – 25. Not everyone's molars will automatically need extraction, but leaving unhealthy wisdom teeth inside of the mouth can cause further possible dental complications in the future. We may suggest wisdom teeth removal for people who have:
- Totally or partiallyimpacted?third molars beneath the gums or jaw
- Inadequate space for completethird molar emergence
- Overcrowded teeth
- Any development of a lump in the jaw
- Gum bleeding or swelling, mouth swelling, or jaw joint aches
- Damage to the wisdom teeth or patients who have trouble making sure the wisdom teeth are clean
How Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Performed?
Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery carries out third molar removals with the patient under IV anesthesia to improve comfort. The majority of cases of wisdom teeth removal require an excision method, particularly when the teeth are ingrown, have abnormally shaped roots, or are securely anchored to the jaw. Once Dr. Sexton, Dr. Weiskopf, or Dr. Russ creates an incision in the gum tissues to access the impacted tooth, they will often split it into individual pieces, which allows for easier extraction. Often, all of your wisdom teeth would be taken out in one session. Sutures are often used to promote the recovery period. Finally, we utilize the patient's growth factors to promote healing by inserting platelet-rich fibrin into the extraction sites. Our highly talented staff will provide you with post-op guidelines to adhere to during the days following your procedure.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions Reviews
I highly recommend going to Dr. Sexton. My son extracted all 4 of his wisdom teeth and he barely had any swelling. Dr. Sexton explained the post op instructions and called the next morning to check up on my son.
The whole staff was amazing and informative. I went for wisdom teeth removal, and although I was under anesthesia it was quick. This is the second day post-op and I have experienced no pain at all. I sound highly recommend.
Dr. Mathew Russ is a highly skilled dental surgeon who also has comforting manner and personality filled with care. The entire staff made me feel at ease by providing professional, supportive, and personal care. He extracted my broken wisdom tooth without me even being aware of it. No pain or discomfort at all during or post operation. I would highly recommend this clinic and Dr. Russ.
I recently had two wisdom teeth removed by Dr Weiskopf. The experience could not have been smoother. The entire visit lasted less than an hour. I experienced absolutely no pain or swelling afterwards. My post surgical office visit was very quick and efficient. Very well run business. Dr. Weiskopf was excellent technically and very personable.
Great experience with Dr. Russ and my wisdom teeth removal. They are professional, timely and caring. Dr. Russ did a great job and made sure to check in post op to see how I was doing. I would recommend to anyone.
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What can I expect after wisdom tooth extractions?
After wisdom tooth removal, it’s normal to experience swelling, tightness in the jaw, and mild discomfort as the area begins healing. The first few days often bring the most noticeable symptoms, but these typically improve steadily with recommended home care and medication. You may also notice temporary limitations in chewing and opening your mouth fully, which gradually ease as inflammation settles. Some patients experience light bruising or a feeling of fullness near the extraction site. Most people return to normal activities within several days, with full tissue healing continuing over the following weeks.
Does Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
Most dental insurance plans offer some coverage for wisdom tooth extractions, especially when the procedure is deemed medically necessary. The extent of coverage can vary widely depending on your specific plan and provider. It's often categorized as a major dental procedure, which can affect your deductible and co-payment amounts. Our staff at Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is experienced in working with insurance companies and can help you understand your benefits. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly or allowing us to perform a benefits check to get a clear estimate of your out-of-pocket costs.
Recovery Following Oral Surgery
Patients who request oral or IV sedation to relax them throughout their procedure will have to bring a trustworthy friend to take them home. During the initial few days following the extraction, it's necessary to avoid spitting, drinking through a straw, consuming high or low-temperature foods and drinks, and fully stop using tobacco and e-cigs. These behaviors can often displace the blood clot at the removal area and result in a condition called "dry socket." It is not abnormal to experience mid-face puffiness and discomfort after third molar removals, which may be helped with prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers and cold packs held to the face. We will provide you with instructions to enable you to take care of your oral health at home and set up a check-in visit to assess your surgical sites while they improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do wisdom teeth often have to be removed?
Wisdom teeth often need to be removed due to their tendency to become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection. As these third molars emerge, there may not be enough space in the jaw for them, leading to misalignment and crowding of nearby teeth. Additionally, their location makes them difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
When are wisdom teeth usually removed?
Wisdom teeth are typically removed in the late teens to early twenties, when they are still developing and before they cause potential complications. Dental professionals may recommend extraction if there are signs of crowding, impaction, or infection. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual dental health and the position of the wisdom teeth.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?
While you can generally get back to school, work, and normal everyday routines after about three to five days for the initial healing, complete healing may take a few weeks. Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and bruising during the first few days, but these symptoms typically improve with rest and proper care. Following the dentist's post-operative instructions can help ensure a smoother and quicker recovery process.
Preserve Your Health and Smile
Stephen Barrett Sexton, D.D.S. is pleased to provide wisdom tooth removals to maintain the future comfort of your family's smiles. This precision oral surgery is commonly done for Memphis, TN adults and teens and might be necessary in the case that natural dental emergence is not likely to occur or further issues are present. To get more details about wisdom tooth removal, schedule a consultation at Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery as soon as you can.