Factors to Take Into Account
When contemplating wisdom teeth removal, there are several factors that need to be considered. It is crucial for both you and your dentist to evaluate the surgical risks involved and determine if your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or inflicting damage to your jaw or adjacent teeth. In cases where your second molars have been compromised, it may be possible to extract them and allow the healthier wisdom teeth to take their place.
Another important consideration is how your wisdom teeth will impact any previous or future dental treatments you have undergone or may require. For instance, if you have undergone orthodontic treatment such as braces to correct tooth alignment and bite issues, and your wisdom teeth pose a risk of disrupting the alignment achieved, your dentist will likely advise their extraction.
The Procedure for Removing Wisdom Teeth
Once you have been sedated, the oral surgeon will begin by numbing the area surrounding the teeth that need to be extracted. In cases where the teeth are impacted and stuck in the gums or jaw, the surgeon will make incisions to gain access to the teeth and remove them from their sockets. Next, the surgeon will clean the sockets thoroughly and sew them shut with stitches. These stitches typically dissolve and fall out within a few days. While most wisdom teeth extractions can be completed within an hour, more complex cases may require additional time.