Wisdom Teeth Removal in Hickory, NC
A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Extractions are performed for a wide variety of reasons. Tooth decay that has destroyed enough tooth structure to prevent restoration is the most frequent indication for extraction of teeth. The most common reason for extracting a tooth is tooth damage such as breakage or fracture.
Dr. J.D. Robinette provides expert tooth extractions at his office in Hickory, NC. Call 828-267-0651 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Robinette today!
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are typically the last to develop and are located in the back of your mouth. Dentists will refer to wisdom teeth as your third molars. These third molars are believed to be helpful to our distant ancestors who ate a diet consisting of sticks and rough plants. With modern advancements in dental hygiene and a diet that does not include sticks and reed plants, we no longer need these teeth but unfortunately, they still grow anyways.
Who Needs Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Some people are lucky enough to never get wisdom teeth and some people are unlucky enough to have more than 4. It is important to have wisdom teeth removed as a young adult, as patients in their 30s and 40s have a higher risk of complications.
Why Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
- Extra teeth which are blocking other teeth from coming in.
- Severe gum disease which may affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of teeth.
- Severe tooth decay or infection.
- In preparation for orthodontic treatment (braces)
- Receiving radiation to the head and neck may require extraction of teeth in the field of radiation.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth Symptoms
When your wisdom teeth begin to come in, common symptoms include pain in the back of the mouth, or behind your molars. As the wisdom teeth continue to come in, the pain will gradually increase. Other symptoms include:
- Jaw pain
- Tender, red or bleeding gums
- Swelling around the jaw
- Bad breath
- Difficulty opening your mouth
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery
Wisdom teeth extraction is an outpatient surgery, so you can leave the same day your teeth are removed. The procedure is performed with local anesthesia or general anesthesia, general anesthesia will take you longer to wake up, so you will need to be taken to a recovery room until it is time to leave. After you have left the dentist, your body will need time to heal. Pain and swelling is normal and you may also notice blood in your mouth. We recommend using an ice pack on your face after surgery to help with swelling. The doctor will also give you instructions on medications which will be either prescription painkillers or over-the-counter. If you are feeling well enough to eat post surgery, jello, applesauce, and broths are recommended choices.
Scheduling Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Appointment
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt. Wisdom teeth generally cause problems when they erupt partially through the gum. The most common reasons for removing them are decay, gum infection (Pericoronitis), pressure pain, orthodontic reasons and cyst formation. With today's modern procedures and follow up care as recommended by the dentist, extractions are simple and relatively pain-free. If you are in need of a wisdom teeth extraction, please call our office in Hickory, NC, at 828-267-0651 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Robinette today.