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Avoid Serious Dental Problems With Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Houston

Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. The term wisdom stems from the idea that the molars surface at a time typically associated with increased maturity. In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors. To help our patients avoid these issues and unpleasant symptoms, we offer wisdom teeth extractions in Houston at Sinada Dental.

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Types of Wisdom Teeth Impaction

There are several types, or degrees, of impaction based on the actual depth of the teeth within the jaw:

  • Soft Tissue Impaction: The upper portion of the tooth (the crown) has penetrated through the bone, but the gingiva (gum) is covering part or all of the tooth’s crown and has not positioned properly around the tooth. Because it is difficult to keep the area clean, food can become trapped below the gum and cause an infection and/or tooth decay, resulting in pain and swelling.
  • Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth has partially erupted, but a portion of the crown remains submerged below the gum and surrounding jawbone. Again, because it is difficult to keep the area clean, infection will commonly occur.
  • Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth is completely encased by the jawbone. This will require more complex removal techniques.

Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth Extraction is Important

While not all wisdom teeth require removal, wisdom teeth extractions are most often performed because of an active problem such as pain, swelling, decay, or infection, or as a preventative measure to avoid serious problems in the future. If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur, including the following:

Damage to nearby teeth

Second molars (the teeth directly in front of the wisdom teeth) can be adversely affected by impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in tooth decay (cavities), periodontal disease (gum disease), and possible bone loss.

Disease

Although uncommon, cysts and tumors can occur in the areas surrounding impacted wisdom teeth.

Infection

Bacteria and food can become trapped under the gum tissue, resulting in an infection. The infection can cause considerable pain and danger.

Tooth crowding

It has been theorized that impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on other teeth and cause them to become misaligned (crowded or twisted). This theory is not universally accepted by all dental professionals, and it has never been validated by any scientific studies.

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Your Wisdom Teeth Examination

As with any dental procedure, your dentist will want to initially conduct a thorough examination of the wisdom and surrounding teeth. Panoramic or digital X-rays will be taken in order for your dentist to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if a current problem exists. They will also want to evaluate the likelihood of any potential future problems. 

The X-rays can also expose additional risk factors, such as deterioration or decay of nearby teeth. Early evaluation and treatment (typically in the mid-teen years) is recommended in order to identify potential problems and to improve the results for patients requiring wisdom teeth extractions. Only after a thorough examination can your dentist provide you with the best options for your particular case.

What Does Wisdom Teeth Extraction Involve?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, generally performed under local anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia by a specially trained dentist in an office surgery suite. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be released with post-operative instructions and medication (if necessary), to help manage any swelling or discomfort.

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Why Choose Sinada Dental for Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Houston?

At Sinada Dental, our highly respected dental professionals are trained and experienced in both cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Throughout their careers, Dr. Sinada and Dr. Dang have performed countless wisdom teeth extractions. They’ll ensure that your treatment experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or would like to schedule your initial exam for wisdom teeth extraction in Houston, contact our office today.

Dr. Sinada performing dental surgery on a patient

Wisdom Teeth Extraction FAQ

Does everyone have to have their wisdom teeth extracted at some point?

How long does wisdom teeth extraction take?

What is the recovery process like after wisdom teeth extraction?

Does everyone have to have their wisdom teeth extracted at some point?

No. Typically, you’ll only need to worry about having your wisdom teeth extracted if they are impacted and/or causing unpleasant symptoms. In rare cases, wisdom teeth can lead to life-threatening conditions, in which case having them extracted may be necessary to preserve your health.

How long does wisdom teeth extraction take?

Depending on the number of wisdom teeth you’re having removed, the procedure will typically take between 30 minutes and an hour. However, if you’re sedated or given anesthesia before the extraction, you’ll likely need to remain at the office for between 90 minutes and a few hours before having a friend or family member drive you home.

What is the recovery process like after wisdom teeth extraction?

After your wisdom teeth extraction, your dentist will give you thorough post-operative instructions to ensure that you heal properly. You should plan to rest and recover for a few days after the procedure, and you’ll probably want to gradually ease back into your normal routine.

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Your teeth and mouth are the backbone to a healthy and beautiful life. You deserve trusted hands and veteran dentists by your side. Whether its cosmetic dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, or even just a general cleaning, we know how to provide the utmost in comfort, care and results.

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