Understanding Third Molars
Wisdom teeth, technically known as third molars, are the final set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. Individuals may have anywhere from zero to four (or even more) wisdom teeth. While their emergence can sometimes occur without issue, they frequently lack adequate space in the modern jaw, often necessitating removal by an oral surgeon to prevent future complications. Procedures are generally quick, performed comfortably with appropriate anesthesia; however, IV sedation or general anesthesia requires a responsible adult escort post-surgery.
Problems arise because wisdom teeth often fail to erupt properly. They might grow sideways, only partially emerge, or remain trapped beneath the gum tissue and bone – a condition known as impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth require removal by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, as they cannot erupt correctly into the dental arch and pose significant risks to surrounding structures and overall oral health if left untreated.
Untreated wisdom teeth, especially those impacted or poorly positioned, can lead to various dental issues, including:
- Pain or pressure in the jaw and surrounding areas
- Swelling and inflammation of the gum tissue
- Recurring infections around the partially erupted tooth (pericoronitis)
- Development of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth
- Damage to adjacent molar teeth (decay, resorption)
- Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth (misalignment)
- Increased risk of gum disease and associated tooth decay
Why You Need an Oral Surgeon for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons possess extensive training specifically focused on complex surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. After dental school, they complete a demanding 4-to-6-year hospital-based surgical residency.
This specialized training ensures expertise in removing wisdom teeth, including deeply impacted cases requiring precise surgical techniques and bone management. Furthermore, oral surgeons are uniquely qualified and licensed to administer all levels of anesthesia and sedation (local, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, general anesthesia) safely within an office.
Risks of Keeping Problematic Wisdom Teeth
Damage and Misalignment of Neighboring Teeth
Insufficient space forces erupting wisdom teeth to push against adjacent molars. This constant pressure can directly damage neighboring teeth, cause crowding throughout the dental arch, and potentially undo previous orthodontic treatment by shifting teeth out of their proper alignment.
Pain and Discomfort
Pressure from wisdom teeth attempting to erupt into a crowded jaw is a common source of pain. This discomfort can range from dull aches or pressure sensations in the back of the mouth to sharp pains, headaches, and difficulty chewing comfortably during daily activities.
Infection and Gum Disease
Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth create areas difficult to clean properly. Trapped food particles and bacteria around these teeth often lead to painful gum infections (pericoronitis), persistent bad breath, cavities in the wisdom tooth or adjacent molar, and contribute to advanced gum disease risks.
Cyst or Tumor Development
Fluid-filled sacs (cysts) or, less commonly, tumors can sometimes form around the soft tissues surrounding an impacted wisdom tooth. While often benign initially, these growths can expand, potentially destroying adjacent jaw bone and tooth roots if not diagnosed and treated promptly through extraction.
Optimal Timing for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Consulting an oral surgeon during the mid-to-late teenage years allows for ideal evaluation and potential removal of wisdom teeth. Extracting them early, before roots fully develop and while the jaw bone is less dense, generally results in a simpler surgical procedure and a smoother, faster recovery time for the patient.
While early removal offers advantages, wisdom teeth can certainly be extracted successfully at any age. However, delaying removal often means the teeth become more fully formed and embedded, potentially increasing surgical complexity. Untreated wisdom teeth in adults may also have already caused damage or misalignment issues. If you are an adult experiencing sudden pain or infection related to your wisdom teeth, prompt evaluation and removal by an oral surgeon remain essential for protecting your oral health.
Managing Impacted Wisdom Teeth in Chula Vista
A wisdom tooth qualifies as impacted when it is blocked from fully erupting into its normal position within the dental arch. This occurs frequently due to lack of space, causing the tooth to grow at an angle, sideways, or remain completely trapped beneath the gum tissue and/or jaw bone. Impacted wisdom teeth will not erupt correctly on their own and require surgical intervention.
While a general dentist might extract a fully erupted wisdom tooth similarly to other teeth, impacted wisdom teeth necessitate surgical removal performed by an oral surgeon. The procedure typically involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the trapped tooth. Sometimes the tooth might need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal with minimal disruption to surrounding structures. Dentists routinely refer patients with impacted wisdom teeth to oral surgery specialists for this expert care.
What to Expect During Third Molar Extraction
Your experience begins with a consultation appointment where Dr. Koshgerian or Dr. Shelton will review your X-rays, discuss your health history and specific situation, and outline your personalized treatment plan. The wisdom teeth removal procedure itself is typically efficient. Patient comfort is prioritized through various sedation options. IV sedation is very common, allowing you to relax comfortably throughout the surgery (remember to arrange for a responsible adult escort afterward).
Following the extraction(s), our team provides comprehensive post-operative instructions detailing everything necessary for a smooth recovery. This includes guidance on managing discomfort (using pain medication and ice packs as directed), maintaining gentle oral hygiene around the extraction sites, following a temporary soft food diet, and recognizing signs needing follow-up. Expect to rest for the first day after surgery.
How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost?
The investment required for wisdom teeth removal varies depending on individual circumstances. Factors determining the final cost include the total number of wisdom teeth needing extraction, whether the teeth are impacted (requiring a more complex surgical procedure versus simple extraction), your choice of anesthesia for comfort, and the specifics of your dental insurance coverage plan. During your consultation, we provide a clear, detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan before proceeding with any surgery.
Stemodontics® Wisdom Teeth Stem Cell Banking
Wisdom teeth are often healthy teeth removed solely due to lack of space, making them a rich source of potent stem cells. These versatile cells possess the ability to differentiate into various cell types your body might need for future therapeutic applications (blood, tissue, organ, bone regeneration). Banking your extracted wisdom teeth stem cells in a specialized secure lab offers a unique investment in your potential future health.
Dr. Koshgerian and Dr. Shelton are Stemodontics® certified providers, offering patients undergoing wisdom tooth removal at our practice the option for professional stem cell banking services. Consider preserving these valuable cells today for potential use down the road.
Types of Anesthesia
The right anesthesia will depend on the complexity of your procedure and your level of anxiety.
Hear From Patients
Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
We ensure you are completely comfortable and pain-free during the extraction procedure using effective anesthesia options. Post-operative discomfort varies but is typically well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication and cold packs. Utilizing options like EXPAREL® can further minimize post-surgical pain for many.
Why see an oral surgeon instead of a general dentist?
Oral surgeons complete extensive hospital-based surgical residencies focused on procedures of the mouth, jaw, and face. This specialized training provides unparalleled expertise in managing complex extractions like impacted wisdom teeth, performing necessary bone or soft tissue procedures, and safely administering all levels of sedation and anesthesia.
How long is the recovery time after wisdom teeth removal?
Initial recovery usually involves resting for the first 24-48 hours, with most swelling and discomfort subsiding significantly within the first week. Full healing of the extraction sites takes several weeks. Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the extractions and individual healing factors; follow post-operative instructions carefully.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Begin with a diet of liquids and very soft foods immediately after surgery (e.g., smoothies, yogurt, pudding, broth, mashed potatoes). Gradually introduce slightly firmer soft foods as comfort allows over the next few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, or very hot foods, and do not use straws initially to protect the healing sites.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket is a painful complication occurring when the protective blood clot that forms in the extraction site dislodges prematurely, exposing underlying bone and nerves. Following all post-operative instructions carefully, especially regarding rinsing and avoiding suction (like straws), minimizes your risk of developing this condition significantly.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not every single wisdom tooth requires removal. However, due to the high likelihood of future problems like impaction, infection, pain, or damage to adjacent teeth caused by lack of space, preventative removal is very commonly recommended based on an oral surgeon's evaluation of their position and potential risks.
What anesthesia will I need for the procedure?
Your anesthesia choice depends on the number and complexity of the extractions and your personal anxiety level regarding dental procedures. Options range from local anesthesia alone for simple cases, to nitrous oxide, IV sedation (most common), or general anesthesia. Your surgeon discusses these sedation options thoroughly during the consultation.
How Can We Help?
If you have questions, would like to learn more about a procedure, or wish to schedule an appointment, give us a call. Our board-certified surgeons and attentive team are here to help.