Wisdom teeth are an extra set of molars that often develop when a person is between the ages of 15 and 25. The average person's mouth is considered too small to support the extra molars, and wisdom teeth often become impacted when they are growing in. Impacted teeth can cause pain and infection, so often, tooth extraction is necessary. If you are experiencing general pain, or aching feelings in your mouth and jaw, you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed. To follow are some of the most frequently asked questions about wisdom tooth extraction.
Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed? If your wisdom teeth grow in correctly, removal may not be necessary. If your wisdom teeth are impacted (grown in below the gum tissue line) and cause severe pain, extraction is the best option. If not extracted, impacted wisdom teeth may cause serious dental issues, including infection.
How are wisdom teeth removed? Prior to extraction, local or general anesthesia is administered. An incision is made in gum tissue over the tooth, and any bone covering the tooth is removed. The tissue connecting the tooth to the bone is separated, and the tooth removed. The procedure takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours to complete.
How long will it take to recover? You may need to take pain medication following a wisdom tooth extraction, and the healing process may take several months. To promote faster healing, patients must keep the extraction site clean, and follow a healthy diet.
Is it time to have your wisdom teeth removed? Contact Montefiore Dental.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We have several offices in the Bronx area, and can be reached at 888.700.6623.
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