Wisdom teeth are the final permanent teeth to appear in the mouth. For most people, they grow in between the ages of 17 and 25, and many people have their wisdom teeth removed. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can cause problems as they grow in, or people elect to remove them before issues arise. Whether extractions fix problems or prevent them, our experienced professionals at Columbia Smiles provide high-quality wisdom teeth consultation in Columbia, Maryland. Dr. Hsu and the rest of our talented staff have been serving the Howard County community for over three decades. If you’re looking for a wisdom teeth removal dentist with experience, contact us today.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
For some people, their wisdom teeth grow in properly and cause no problems. However, for many, their wisdom teeth don’t have room to grow in, causing pain or even infection. Wisdom teeth that only partially grow in or “erupt” can be particularly problematic. When the teeth have partially broken through, bacteria can enter and make an infection more likely. This bacteria could also lead to tooth decay and further complications. Additionally, for some, the lack of room for wisdom teeth to grow in can lead to crowding of the existing teeth. Finally, some wisdom teeth never come through, leading to problems under the surface that might be difficult to detect.
If you want to know if you’re a candidate for wisdom teeth removal, consider these signs:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Your wisdom teeth have grown in partially or not at all
- You’re having difficulty flossing around your wisdom teeth
- Swollen and tender gums
- Sinus pain, pressure, or congestion
- X-rays indicate risk for problems down the line
Your dentist can evaluate your need for wisdom teeth removal. X-rays are often the best way to determine if you’ll benefit from the procedure, so even if you’re not in pain or having other issues, you can find out whether or not you’ll need your wisdom teeth extracted.
Quality Wisdom Teeth Removal in Columbia, Maryland
At Columbia Smiles, your wisdom teeth removal procedure will begin with a consultation. Dr. Hsu can examine your wisdom teeth and review your X-rays to determine whether the teeth are likely to cause problems. If you are already experiencing pain or discomfort from impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth, he may recommend removal.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
To prepare for the procedure, plan for transportation home and time off of work or school to rest.
Your oral surgeon will use a form of local or general anesthetic to make you comfortable. Next, the dentist will cut a small incision in the gum tissue to remove the tooth. He’ll then clean away any debris from the site of the extraction before stitching the wound closed. Finally, our doctors will pack the wound with gauze to help the bleeding stop quickly.
Recovery and Future Care
It is important to care for the site of your wisdom teeth extraction properly to avoid complications. Some bleeding, swelling, or bruising is normal. However, an ice pack can provide relief as you rest after the surgery, and you can manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, your dentist might also prescribe a prescription for pain medication. You may need some time to recover from local or general anesthesia. Plan to rest after the procedure, and be careful when returning to your normal activities. Eat soft foods for the first day or two, such as yogurt or applesauce, to avoid irritating the wound.
Call your dentist right away if you experience problems such as excessive bleeding, difficulty breathing, or a fever.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Removal in Columbia, Maryland
Columbia Smiles provides wisdom teeth consultation as well as general dentistry services, cosmetic dentistry services, and dental trauma services. Experience our comfortable office, friendly staff, and skilled dentists and dental assistants. Contact us at 410.690.4855 today for a consultation on your wisdom teeth removal.