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Extractions

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Wisdom teeth derive their name from the fact that they form in the late teen years, making them “older and wiser.” In today’s world, the softer diet and shorter jaw of modern humans have rendered wisdom teeth unnecessary. In fact, the onset of wisdom teeth can be a painful and potentially dangerous development.

In most cases, a relatively simple and straightforward surgery can extract wisdom teeth before they cause permanent damage to the teeth and mouth.

Growth of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, the “third” molar at both ends of the top and bottom row of teeth. As wisdom teeth begin to grow, they can become impacted or trapped in the jawbone and/or gums. As they continue to grow beneath the gum line in an angled or horizontal direction, displacement of the original line of teeth and wearing into the back molars can occur. Wisdom teeth that are unable to “erupt” above the gum line can lead to inflammation and infection. In the case of a partial eruption, a pocket often forms under the gumline, which can lead to the formation of a cyst or tumor. If left untreated, wisdom teeth cause permanent damage, including cavities, nerve damage, gum infection, bone infection, and a weakening of the jaw. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth often grow unnoticed until they cause problems in the mouth or outlying areas, such as the face. These problems can cause headaches and pain in the ears, neck, and upper or lower jaw. 

The Surgery

As a rule of thumb, wisdom teeth should be extracted when the oral surgeon first concludes that the teeth are impacted and pose a risk to the patient. In certain cases, surgery may require an incision into the gums, partial bone removal, and/or sectioning of the tooth before removal. The procedure is almost always performed in the dentist’s office on an outpatient basis. The surgery is usually performed in less than an hour, depending on the depth of the impacted teeth and their angle of growth. The surgeon will recommend using local anesthesia, a mild sedative, or general anesthesia. 

After Surgery

Following the surgery, one can expect to experience minor pain, bleeding of the gums, and swelling of the mouth. The surgeon will prescribe medication to alleviate much of this discomfort. Unfortunately, it is impossible to know how much swelling will occur because the amount of swelling does not always correspond to the severity of the impacted teeth. However, swelling typically begins the day of the surgery and peaks within two to three days, gradually subsiding in five to seven days. Applying ice packs to the jaw helps reduce any swelling you may experience. Your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and to aid the healing process. Most patients are fully recovered and back to work in one to two weeks. 

Don’t just take our word for it…

See what our patients are saying about Dr. Loveleen Brar

Carolyn Carter
Carolyn Carter
Dr. Brar and her staff are exceptional. If you are like me and have anxiety/fear of painful procedures, they will make you comfortable in their gentle, caring environment and by being attentive to your concerns and needs while providing excellent state of the art dental care.
Alnasir Adatia
Alnasir Adatia
Had a perfect dental cleaning. Thank you for making my teeth shine and my smile perfect!!
Kailyn Hart
Kailyn Hart
In and out, super efficient office! Everyone’s super nice!
Erika Vargas
Erika Vargas
I loved it very kind people I recommend it 100% professionals
Diane Robinson
Diane Robinson
Thank you for the good care and extra time to adjust my partial.
Lisa Seabolt
Lisa Seabolt
Great staff 👍
Joy Middleton
Joy Middleton
The hygienist is the best one I have ever had in my life. He is quick and efficient and very nice as well. The dentist , Dr Brar, is kind and knowledgeable, overall excellent experience as far as going to a dental appointment!
Michael Bryant
Michael Bryant
Very nice and professional. Dr Brar and her staff made me feel at ease and comfortable. Her one on one consultation and recommendation were spot on.
Julie Salazar
Julie Salazar
Dr. Brar and her team are really nice and patient. I am a super anxious patient and they made me feel really comfortable today. Thanks everyone!
Dean Zanger
Dean Zanger
Excellent care received. Very happy to recommend this Dentist and her assistants!