Wisdom Teeth Removal in Oklahoma City
Wisdom teeth or third molars are one of the most common extraction procedures performed. Although this is a common procedure, patients are often nervous prior to their appointment. In a case such as wisdom teeth removal, where patients are nervous, it is important to feel and know you are in experienced, caring hands. Oklahoma City dentist, Dr. Grace, believes in excellence in not just dentistry but in patient care as well. She and her skilled team will ensure you understand your procedure prior to your appointment and are treated with the utmost care.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars in your mouth, developing usually in your late teens or early 20's. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed at that age, but in many cases the teeth will develop out of alignment with the rest of the mouth and eventually must be extracted.
Wisdom teeth also have a bad habit of becoming impacted, which means they are enclosed within the mouth’s tissue or bone. Impacted teeth can eventually break through the gum line and if that happens need to be removed immediately. The break in the gum line allows bacteria to enter the gums around the tooth and can lead to many other oral health problems.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Most people will have their wisdom teeth removed some day, and many patients now opt to do it in their late teens regardless of whether a problem has presented itself. Younger patients tend to recover more quickly from the removal as well. Neglecting to remove wisdom teeth can lead to the following:
► Infection from impacted teeth breaking the gum line
► Deterioration of adjacent teeth
► Crowding of the mouth
► Movement of teeth, often undoing prior orthodontic procedures
Removing Wisdom Teeth in OKC
To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, most patients prefer to be sedated during wisdom teeth removal. Once under sedation, the wisdom teeth can be removed usually in 30 to 60 minutes. Once the teeth are removed, dissolvable stitches will be used to close any incisions. Once this is complete, you will be woken up and a friend or family member who accompanied you can drive you back home.
For a few days following the surgery patients are advised to rest, not brush the treated area and use painkillers as needed. It is common to experience some pain and facial swelling. In about 3-4 days the stitches at the incision site should dissolve and most patients are back to normal activities.
Pragma Dental OKC Wisdom Teeth Removal
Contact Pragma Dental OKC to schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth removal in Oklahoma City. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Grace will discuss in detail the procedure, cost, downtime and what to expect.