Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Wisdom teeth extraction is a surgical procedure to remove the third set of molars, known as wisdom teeth, typically in late adolescence or early adulthood. These teeth often lack sufficient space in the jaw, leading to complications such as impaction, crowding, or infection. The extraction process involves an initial assessment, X-rays to evaluate tooth position, administration of anesthesia, and the careful removal of the wisdom teeth. At G. Larry Leonakis DDS, this procedure aims to prevent pain, discomfort, and oral health issues associated with problematic wisdom teeth, ensuring the patient's overall well-being. 

Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Extractions 

• If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, our dentist may recommend having them extracted. This pain may be the result of an impacted tooth that is pushing against your other teeth. It could also be caused by an infection in the gums around the wisdom teeth. 
• If bacteria gets trapped between your teeth and gums, it can lead to infection. This can happen if the wisdom teeth are improperly cleaned, or food particles become lodged between them. 
• Your wisdom teeth can push against your other teeth and damage them. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or even loss. 
• Your wisdom teeth are impacted if they don’t fully erupt from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and other problems. 

The Procedure for Wisdom Tooth Extractions 

The dentist in Carson City, NV, thoroughly examines the patient's mouth, often including X-rays to assess the position, angle, and development of the wisdom teeth. This evaluation helps determine whether extraction is necessary and the most effective approach. Before the procedure begins, the patient is administered anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the extraction. The type of anesthesia used may vary, ranging from local anesthesia to general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient's preferences. 

If the wisdom tooth is partially or fully impacted, meaning it hasn't fully erupted through the gum, the oral surgeon may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and underlying bone. The dentist or oral surgeon carefully extracts the wisdom tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Sometimes, the tooth must be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. The goal is to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues. 

Once the wisdom tooth is removed, the surgical site is thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris. In some cases, dissolvable stitches or sutures may close the incision, promoting proper healing. A gauze is placed over the surgical site to control bleeding and facilitate blood clot formation. The patient is instructed to bite down on the gauze to promote clot formation and reduce bleeding. The patient receives post-operative care instructions, including information on managing swelling and discomfort, prescribed medications, dietary restrictions, and oral hygiene practices. The patient must follow these instructions to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. 

Wisdom tooth removal is a standard and generally safe procedure designed to address potential issues associated with the eruption of wisdom teeth, such as impaction, crowding, and infection. For more information, visit G. Larry Leonakis DDS at 371 S Roop St, Carson City, NV 89701, or call (775) 882-0635.