Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Waterbury, CT
Remove Your Unnecessary Teeth
If you go back in time, wisdom teeth had a purpose for our ancestors. However, today, more often than not, wisdom teeth aren’t needed to maintain a fully functioning smile. In fact, they can be harmful to the health of your smile if they become impacted or stuck under the gums. In many cases, it is best to have your third molars removed. At Waterbury Smiles, we can help to remove your unnecessary teeth. To learn more about this procedure or to schedule a consultation, contact us.
Why Choose Waterbury Smiles for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Comfortable, Professional Office Environment
- Dental Insurance Welcome
- Interest-Free Financing Using CareCredit
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
The wisdom teeth are the third molars and the last adult teeth to erupt in the mouth. Most people develop 4 wisdom teeth, two on the top and two on the bottom. Anthropologists believe that wisdom teeth were once helpful for our prehistoric ancestors who needed additional chewing power to consume rough plants, seeds, nuts, and foliage that made up most of their diets. In the past, it wasn’t uncommon for teeth to fall out over time, so wisdom teeth could also step in and act as replacement teeth.
Today, we have a softer diet filled with carbohydrates and high-calorie foods, as well as a focus on dental care, so wisdom teeth aren’t usually necessary. Some people don’t develop wisdom teeth at all, while others can develop one, two, or three. The need for them to be removed varies from person to person.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
A lot of the time, wisdom teeth need to be removed because they can pose a serious threat to dental health down the road. Numerous issues can occur if wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to develop properly. This includes overcrowding, oral hygiene issues, discomfort, impaction, increased risk of cysts, and possible damage to surrounding teeth. Here are some signs that could indicate that you need your wisdom teeth extracted:
- Pain while eating
- Jaw stiffness
- Facial swelling
- Bas breath
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Repeated infections
What to Expect From the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
If your wisdom teeth have already erupted, dental forceps and an elevator will be used. If your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted, an incision will need to be made to expose the tooth and bone. Any bone that blocks access to the tooth will need to be removed. Sometimes, the tooth needs to be removed in pieces. Afterward, the site of the extraction will be cleared of any debris and stitches may be used to close the wound if necessary. Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and help blood clots form and begin the healing process.
Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction
After your procedure, it is common to experience bleeding, swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but this should subside over the next few days. During this time, it is especially crucial to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine. This includes rinsing and brushing gently but being sure to avoid the extraction site. You should stick to soft foods and refrain from using straws while you drink. Take all prescribed and over-the-counter medications as directed. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call so we can help.