At Riverdale Dental, P.C., located in Bronx, NY, we understand that extracting wisdom teeth is a significant step in maintaining oral health for many individuals. Our skilled dental team, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate approach, ensures that your wisdom teeth extraction experience is as comfortable as possible.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically during the late teens or early twenties. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may experience complications that require extraction. Our practice is committed to providing thorough assessments and personalized care, ensuring that the decision to extract is made with your best interests and overall health in mind.
Wisdom Teeth Overview
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars most people get in their late teens or early twenties. In many cases, these teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when healthy and properly aligned. However, they often are misaligned or cause other dental issues due to limited space in the jaw, necessitating their removal.
Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Impaction of wisdom teeth is a common occurrence when these third molars fail to emerge properly. They might grow at an angle, not fully break through the gum line, or even remain completely trapped beneath the gum and bone. This improper growth can lead to a range of complications:
- Infection: Partially erupted teeth can create openings around the gums, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infections.
- Damage to adjacent teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, potentially leading to misalignment or damage.
- Cyst formation: When wisdom teeth remain encased in the jawbone, they can develop cysts, which can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves.
Signs & Symptoms
Various signs can indicate issues with wisdom teeth, necessitating a dental check-up:
- Jaw discomfort and swelling: Discomfort or swelling in the jaw area can signify impacted wisdom teeth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth: Impaction can cause stiffness and hinder mouth opening.
- Gum inflammation: Red, swollen, or tender gums are common signs of impacted wisdom teeth.
- Sensitivity and discomfort: You might experience increased sensitivity or discomfort around the affected area.
- Tooth crowding: Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure, leading to crowding or misalignment of other teeth.
The Importance Of Extraction
Extraction of problematic wisdom teeth is crucial in preventing future oral health complications. It helps alleviate discomfort, prevent the spread of infection, and avoid more serious problems like damage to adjacent teeth or jawbone complications. Extracting wisdom teeth can also play a significant role in orthodontic treatments and overall dental health maintenance.
The Procedure
The extraction process at Riverdale Dental, P.C. is meticulously planned and executed:
- Initial examination: We start with a detailed examination, including x-rays or 3D imaging, to assess the position, size, and angle of the wisdom teeth and their relation to surrounding structures.
- Surgical planning: Based on the assessment, we devise a surgical plan. The complexity of the procedure depends on how deeply the teeth are impacted and their position relative to vital structures like nerves and sinuses.
- Anesthesia and sedation: To ensure your comfort, we offer various anesthesia and sedation options. Local anesthesia is typically used, but sedation options are available for anxious patients or more complex procedures.
- Extraction process: The procedure can vary from a straightforward extraction (if the tooth has fully erupted) to a more complex surgical removal (involving incisions and bone removal). In the case of surgical extraction, small incisions are made in the gum tissue, and bone covering the tooth may be gently removed. The tooth may be sectioned into smaller parts for easier removal.
- Closure and healing: After extraction, the site is cleaned, and the gum is sutured, if necessary. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
Recovering After Extraction
After the extraction, you will be given detailed aftercare instructions. It’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. We recommend a soft diet, avoiding strenuous activity, and gentle oral hygiene practices immediately following the procedure. Our team is always available for follow-up care and to address any concerns during your recovery.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
At Riverdale Dental, P.C., we are dedicated to making your wisdom teeth extraction process as stress-free and comfortable as possible. We believe in educating our patients about their oral health, empowering them to make informed decisions. If you’re experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth or have concerns about their emergence, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
