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Gainesville
1221 Sherwood Park Dr., NE
Gainesville, GA 30501
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Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction is an important part of good dental health, and Dr. Fred Simonton specializes in the care and removal of wisdom teeth. Below is information to help you understand wisdom teeth, the process for extraction and why that is often a necessary action.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars, the last teeth to develop. They normally develop between the ages of 15 and 25, but may not erupt due to lack of space in the mouth, causing them to be "impacted." It is recommended that they be removed as early as possible because younger patients usually have a less extensive root system and shorter recovery period.

What are the potential problems caused by wisdom teeth and why do they need to be removed?

Erupted wisdom teeth are likely to decay and become infected because their awkward position makes them difficult to care for properly.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and shifting of other teeth, or even result in more serious problems such as tumors or cysts at the site of impaction.

Wisdom teeth extraction is important to avoid cavities, infection, pain, shifting of teeth, and possibly destruction of healthy bone and teeth in later years.

Panoramic radiography of four impacted third molors (wisdom teeth)

What does impacted mean?

A tooth that does not break through the gum tissue is considered impacted. Teeth can be impacted in either the gum or the bone. It will be determined at your evaluation appointment whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or erupted.

What are the risks and complications of having the wisdom teeth removed?

There is the potential for damage to the nerves that give sensation to the lip, chin, and tongue as well as damage to the maxillary sinus. These problems are rare and should not be cause for alarm.

Why is an evaluation appointment necessary?

During the evaluation appointment, Dr. Simonton will study the patient's x-ray and examine the patient. A medical history is obtained, which will include all previous surgeries, medications currently being taken, and any allergies. It is important that this information be acquired prior to any surgery being scheduled.

What is the procedure for extracting wisdom teeth?

Most procedures are performed in the office under IV sedation and usually require approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

How long is the recovery period?

Each individual is different. But if the postoperative instructions are followed, the majority of the pain and swelling should be gone in about 2 to 3 days. At the follow-up appointment 1 week after the wisdom teeth extraction, things should essentially be back to normal. If patients smoke, drink through a straw, or generally do not follow post-surgical instructions precisely, a dry socket may develop.

What is a dry socket?

When the blood clot does not form or is lost from the extraction site, a dry socket can occur, exposing the bone underneath and causing a dull throbbing pain. This problem generally occurs when the patient smokes or drinks through a straw, contrary to postoperative instructions. The treatment for a dry socket is a medicated pack inserted in the extraction site to aid in healing.

Will there be any swelling?

Yes, a limited amount of swelling and bruising can be expected. It usually subsides within a few days.

Will I need to have my stitches removed?

The sutures used will dissolve after a few days.

When and what can I eat after surgery?

You can eat whatever you feel like eating and should eat soon after your wisdom teeth extraction so that you can take the prescribed medications. Soft foods are suggested such as mashed potatoes or soup, and you should avoid sharp foods like potato chips as they can irritate or injure the extraction site.

What medications will I be prescribed?

You will be given prescriptions for an antibiotic, a pain killer, and an anti-nausea suppository.

What can I NOT do after surgery?

In order to avoid complications, patients should not drink through a straw, consume alcohol, or spit for 1 week after surgery. There should be no smoking for 2 weeks after surgery. These activities will prolong the recovery period and can cause problems that require additional treatment.

For more information on wisdom teeth extraction, please contact Dr. Fred Simonton today.