Wisdom Teeth

Timely Assistance For Erupting Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth arrive late, and they are often anything but welcome. Many people lack the space to accommodate them, which leads to painful pressure as they push against neighboring molars. Not responding to the problems their arrivals create can lead to teeth shifting, enamel damage, worsening pain, and issues with your wisdom teeth becoming impacted. Our Watauga, TX dental office can assist with this matter in order to protect you against their uncomfortable arrival.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction FAQ

Questions about your wisdom teeth and the procedure? No problem. Our team of experts has compiled a list of the most common queries. You can also give our office a call at (817) 485-9018.

What is wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental surgery that involves removing one or more of your third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. These teeth usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties and can often cause problems due to lack of space, leading to pain, infection, or other dental issues.

At Watauga Dental Center, our skilled dentist, Dr. Carmichael, has vast experience in wisdom teeth removal, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of dental care.

Why do most people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted?

Wisdom tooth extraction is recommended for many people, as most peoples’ mouths do not have room for them. During regular dental exams and cleanings, we can monitor them in order to see if they begin to erupt.

Early intervention lets us proceed with your extraction before you have to worry about crowding, pain, or the shifting of a wisdom tooth that interferes with eruption. If the procedure does not take place in time, you can experience complications, including:

• Soft tissue impaction/partial eruption
• Partial bony impaction
• Complete bony impaction
• Crowding: Emerging wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, causing crowding and damaging your smile.
• Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections, causing discomfort and health risks.
• Cavities: Wisdom teeth are hard to clean and can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease.

Before these third molars try to erupt or become trapped in the gum or bone tissues, we can provide solutions that safely and completely remove them without causing further difficulties for neighboring teeth or surrounding tissues.

How will I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?

Dr. Carmichael will conduct a thorough examination and use dental X-rays to determine the condition and position of your wisdom teeth.

He’ll recommend wisdom teeth removal if they’re causing problems or are likely to cause future issues. Depending on his findings, he will discuss a customized plan for you and your wisdom teeth.

What is the process for wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth removal typically involves the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation: Dr. Carmichael will perform an examination and review your dental history and x-rays to decide if removal is necessary.
2. Procedure: On the day of the procedure, local or general anesthesia will be administered for your comfort. Once you are relaxed, Dr. Carmichael will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. If necessary, the tooth will be divided into sections for easier removal. The site is then cleaned, and the wound is stitched up to aid healing.
3. Aftercare: Post-operative instructions will be given, including guidance on diet, pain management, and oral hygiene.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After your wisdom teeth removal, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Dr. Carmichael will prescribe painkillers to manage the discomfort. He may also provide antibiotics to prevent infection.

You must follow a soft diet for a few days and avoid strenuous activities. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Carmichael will ensure that your mouth is healing properly.

How much does wisdom teeth removal in Watauga, TX, cost?

The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether insurance coverage applies. At Watauga Dental Center, we strive to provide affordable dental care and offer various payment options to suit your budget. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your individual situation.

How long does the wisdom teeth removal procedure take?

The duration of the procedure can vary depending on the number and condition of the wisdom teeth to be removed. On average, a wisdom teeth removal procedure takes 45 minutes to an hour. However, you should plan on being at the office for about 2-3 hours to allow time for the pre-surgery preparation and post-surgery recovery.

What issues can come up with wisdom tooth eruption & extraction?

Some extractions are more complex than others. This is due to factors with their eruption, as wisdom teeth can become impacted and remain stuck in uncomfortable positions. Dr. Carmichael has experience with patients needing more complex treatment solutions and can help you if you need a more advanced removal.

What are the potential complications of wisdom teeth removal?

While wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure with a high success rate, it carries some risks like any surgery. These can include:

• Dry socket: This painful condition occurs when the blood clot that aids healing becomes dislodged or dissolves after surgery.
• Infection: Although rare, bacteria can cause infection in the surgical site.
• Damage to nearby teeth or nerves: In rare cases, nearby teeth or nerves can be damaged during the extraction process. This risk is even lower when you have the procedure with an experienced dentist like Dr. Carmichael.

Rest assured, Dr. Carmichael takes all necessary precautions and uses advanced surgical techniques to minimize these risks.

Is it possible to avoid wisdom teeth removal?

If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any discomfort or problems with adjacent teeth, removal might not be necessary. Dr. Carmichael will make this determination based on a thorough examination and your dental X-rays.

However, even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing problems now, they will still need to be monitored, as the potential for issues could arise in the future.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

At Watauga Dental Center, we prioritize your comfort. Before the procedure, Dr. Carmichael will use local or general anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, preventing you from feeling pain during the extraction. After the procedure, any pain or discomfort can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.

What is the recovery time after wisdom teeth removal?

Recovery times can vary from person to person, but generally, most patients start feeling better within a few days. Swelling and discomfort should gradually reduce over this time. A follow-up appointment with Dr. Carmichael will ensure that you are healing properly.

Remember, the key to a speedy recovery is to follow all the post-operative care instructions provided by Dr. Carmichael. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re experiencing discomfort or pain from your wisdom teeth. Let the team at Watauga Dental Center take care of your dental health.

Can I drive after my wisdom teeth removal in Watauga, TX?

If you’ve only had local anesthesia, you might be able to drive home after the procedure. However, if you’ve had general anesthesia or sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It’s always a good idea to arrange transportation in advance to ensure your safety.

Why choose Dr. Carmichael for wisdom teeth removal in Watauga, TX?

Dr. Carmichael brings years of experience in oral surgery, ensuring safe and effective wisdom teeth removal. His dedication to patient comfort, combined with state-of-the-art technology at Watauga Dental Center, promises a smooth and comfortable patient experience. We’re committed to meeting our community’s and surrounding areas’ dental needs with exceptional care.

Talk To Watauga Dental Center About Wisdom Teeth Extractions

We ensure our patients are educated to help combat dental anxiety and increase comfort during treatment. We provide comprehensive, patient-centered dental care. If you have further questions about wisdom teeth removal, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let us help you maintain your healthy, beautiful smile!