Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Houston, TX
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Just like any other set of molars, your wisdom teeth serve to crush and chew food, and were useful to ancient humans to chew food, vegetables and nuts more thoroughly. However, they are frequently extracted today because most people’s mouths cannot accommodate these additional teeth, and our diets have evolved to eliminate their necessity.
When Is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Necessary?
Your dentist in Houston at Smile Unique Dental and Orthodontics may recommend your wisdom tooth (or teeth) be pulled out for one of several reasons:
Impaction
Wisdom teeth can sometimes come in sideways or at an improper angle, which can impact the tooth. It may also interfere with neighboring teeth. Since there is a risk of infection, cyst formation and bacterial invasion, impacted wisdom teeth must be extracted.
Crowding
A new wisdom tooth coming in can irritate nearby teeth and cause pain and swelling.
Infection
Since your teeth come in through your gums, the flap of tissue covering an erupting tooth can harbor food debris and bacteria. This increases the risk of infection and further complications.
Preventative Measures
Some people may have their wisdom teeth removed preemptively to avoid future complications.
How Does The Extraction Procedure Work?
Since wisdom tooth extractions are so common, the procedure is well-established and safe.
- First, your dentist will assess the overall health of your mouth. They may perform x-rays to determine the exact location of the tooth that needs to be removed to ensure the removal does not affect any nearby nerves.
- Next, you will either be given a local anesthetic, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or be sedated, depending on the dentist’s assessment of your comfort and the complexity of the operation. The dentist’s goal is to avoid causing pain.
The complexity of the operation depends on whether you have multiple teeth requiring removal, have fully formed tooth roots, and whether the teeth can be removed in one piece or multiple pieces.
- Once the procedure begins, your dentist will cut your gums open and expose the tooth for removal. They may drill into the surrounding bone if necessary, but you won’t feel any pain.
- Finally, once the tooth is removed, the area may be stitched up to promote healing.
Recovering After Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Most people will be able to resume their normal daily activities the next day, but the healing period varies depending on your overall health. Fortunately, the average recovery time is no more than a few weeks.
Ready to get your wisdom tooth extraction in Houston? Contact Smile Unique Dental and Orthodontics at (832) 391-8660 for an appointment. Our expert dental staff will be happy to treat you in our modern, comfortable dental environment.