- What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Do They Need to Be Removed?
- How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
- What Does It Mean When Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted?
- Types of Impactions
- What Can I Expect After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
- What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
- Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
- What if I Don’t Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed As a Teen or Young Adult?
- Wisdom Teeth Reviews
- How Much Does Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost and Is It Covered By Insurance?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Trusted Wisdom Tooth Removal
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
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- Recovery Following Oral Surgery
What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Do They Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teenage years or early twenties. These teeth are located at the back of your mouth, behind the second molars, and their development is often associated with the transition into maturity. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may require a procedure like wisdom tooth extraction if there isn't enough space for them to fully erupt. At North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, with locations in Tupelo, Corinth, Southaven, and Oxford, MS, we can evaluate and address any potential concerns with your wisdom teeth to ensure optimal oral health.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates performs wisdom tooth extractions while the individual is under local anesthesia, but this surgery can also be combined with sedation dentistry to enhance relaxation. Many cases of wisdom teeth removal need an excision approach, especially when the teeth are impacted, have misshapen roots, or are tightly anchored to the jaw tissue. After our oral surgeon makes an opening in the gum tissues to expose the impacted molar, it may be split into a few pieces, enabling a more efficient extraction. Based on your individual case, each of the wisdom teeth could be addressed during the same session. Stitches could be added to safeguard the removal areas and aid in the recovery process. Our skilled dental professionals will give you post-surgical guidelines to follow over the next several days. If you ever have any questions about what to expect prior to, during, or after wisdom tooth removal, reach out to our team. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
What Does It Mean When Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there isn't enough space in the jaw to allow these teeth to fully emerge and settle into their proper position. While most adults develop 32 permanent teeth, the limited size of the jaw often prevents the four wisdom teeth from erupting completely. When wisdom teeth are impacted, they fail to align correctly for effective chewing and cleaning, potentially leading to discomfort, infection, or other dental complications. North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates offers specialized treatment options to address impacted wisdom teeth.
Types of Impactions
The types of impactions include:
- Soft Tissue Impaction: The gum tissue does not have enough room to retract, making it difficult to clean the tooth properly
- Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth partially erupts, but it cannot function effectively in chewing, often leading to cleaning challenges and other issues
- Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth remains fully embedded in the jawbone or is in a complex position, requiring advanced surgical techniques for removal
Each type of impaction is evaluated carefully to determine the most effective treatment for optimal results.
What Can I Expect After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
After wisdom tooth extraction, patients can expect a recovery period that includes minor bleeding, swelling, and discomfort, which typically peaks within the first two days and gradually improves by the third day. The procedure is performed using anesthesia, with surgical risks and options discussed beforehand. Following the extraction, dissolvable sutures may be used, and patients are monitored until ready to go home with a comprehensive postoperative kit, including pain management and care instructions. Swelling can be minimized by applying ice on the first day, while moist heat can be used later to ease jaw stiffness. It's important to follow postoperative instructions, rest, and limit activities for a few days to ensure proper healing. Most patients begin to feel significantly better within 3 – 5 days and can resume their usual routines shortly thereafter.
What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Wisdom tooth removal offers numerous benefits, including:
- Prevents Crowding: Extracting wisdom teeth helps avoid misalignment caused by overcrowding in the jaw
- Reduces Risk of Infection: Removing impacted wisdom teeth lowers the chances of gum disease, tooth decay, and infections
- Eases Jaw Pain: Wisdom tooth removal can alleviate discomfort from pressure or inflammation
- Protects Adjacent Teeth: Prevents damage to nearby teeth caused by impacted wisdom teeth pushing against them
- Improves Oral Hygiene: Removing hard-to-reach wisdom teeth makes cleaning easier, promoting better long-term dental health
Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Removing wisdom teeth is essential to prevent a variety of potential oral health issues. When there isn't enough room in the mouth for these third molars to fully erupt, problems can arise. Early removal, typically during the teenage years or early twenties, helps avoid these complications and promotes long-term oral health. Reasons to remove wisdom teeth often include:
- Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause localized gum infections (pericoronitis), leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing
- Cyst Formation: Fluid-filled cysts may develop around impacted teeth, damaging the jawbone and nearby teeth
- Crowding: Retained wisdom teeth can contribute to the misalignment of teeth, especially after orthodontic treatments
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Inadequate cleaning around wisdom teeth can harm neighboring second molars, leading to decay, gum disease, or bone loss
What if I Don’t Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed As a Teen or Young Adult?
Delaying wisdom tooth removal until your thirties, forties, or later can lead to more complex procedures and higher risks of complications. As wisdom teeth develop, their roots lengthen, and the jawbone becomes denser, making extraction more challenging. Healing may be slower, and the likelihood of infection increases with age. In some cases, if wisdom teeth are fully impacted in bone and have not caused immediate issues, removal may be postponed until a localized problem, such as cyst formation or gum disease, arises. However, removing wisdom teeth during the teenage years or early twenties typically results in faster healing, fewer complications, and a more predictable recovery.
Wisdom Teeth Reviews
We had a great experience here. My daughter had to get all of her wisdom teeth removed and they were very nice and patient with us. Dr. West and the nurses were very informative and made sure we knew what to expect. We were in and out with no complications. They were also available for any questions after the procedure. Definitely recommend this location for any type of oral surgery.
The gentleman who did my tooth extraction and the assistant who was also participating were SO kind.. it was my first time going for my tooth pull and they were so patient with me and humorous.. they made my experience welcoming and warm.I would recommend 1000%!Also, the front desk ladies were also super kind! ☺️
My son had his wisdom teeth removed a little over a week ago. Dr. Roberts at the Southaven office did the procedure. Everyone in the office was helpful and answered any questions we had. My son followed the care guidelines and is doing well! Thank you for a smooth experience!
I recently had an impacted wisdom tooth extracted by Dr. Maharrey, and I had an excellent experience. The entire staff at North MS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery was kind, professional, and made me feel comfortable throughout the procedure. Dr. Maharrey was outstanding—he took great care of me and made the surgery go smoothly.I'm currently on day three of recovery and have experienced little to no swelling, which has exceeded my expectations. I truly appreciate the quality of care I received and would highly recommend this office to anyone needing oral surgery. I will definitely return if I need any future dental or oral surgery work.
I had both upper wisdom teeth extracted after coming in a few years ago. Everything went fine. Dr. West , the nurses and front staff were great. They were very comforting when I told them about the recent death of my husband. Excellent customer service, professionalism, and caring attitudes. Recovering well with no problems. I thank the Lord for sending me to North Mississippi Oral and Maxillofacial Services.
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How Much Does Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost and Is It Covered By Insurance?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the type of anesthesia used. During your consultation, we will review your x-rays, perform an examination, and discuss anesthesia options to provide an accurate estimate. Insurance coverage for wisdom teeth removal depends on the specific policies of your provider, and coverage may differ for each procedure. To help you navigate your benefits, we will assist in maximizing your insurance coverage, ensuring your treatment is as affordable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reduce swelling after wisdom tooth removal?
Swelling is normal after wisdom tooth removal and can be managed by applying ice packs to the jaw during the first 24 hours. After the initial day, you can continue to use cooling methods and medications. North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates will provide detailed instructions on how to minimize swelling and promote healing.
What are the risks of delaying wisdom tooth removal?
Delaying wisdom tooth removal can lead to more complex extractions and higher risks of complications. Older patients often face slower healing and an increased chance of infection or other issues. Our staff in Tupelo, Corinth, and Southaven recommend addressing wisdom teeth earlier for faster recovery and fewer risks.
Can I drive home after wisdom tooth extraction?
If sedation is used during your procedure, you will need someone to drive you home afterward. Driving is usually permitted for procedures performed with only local anesthesia, but it’s best to consult with our team about your specific situation. We recommend arranging transportation to ensure your safety and comfort post-surgery.
Trusted Wisdom Tooth Removal
If you're experiencing discomfort or concerns related to your wisdom teeth, don’t wait to seek expert care. North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates provides compassionate and professional wisdom tooth removal services in Tupelo, Corinth, and Southaven, MS. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons ensure a comfortable experience from consultation to recovery, helping to prevent potential complications and protect your oral health. Contact a location near you today to schedule your consultation.
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Recovery Following Oral Surgery
People who require further forms of sedation to stay comfortable during their visit will need to bring a reliable friend to get them home. For the first several days following the extraction, it's important to restrict spitting, drinking with a straw, having high or low temperature foods and liquids, and to completely stop using tobacco and vaping. These activities will often detach the scabbing at the removal site and lead to an issue referred to as "dry socket." It is not out of the ordinary to experience facial swelling and discomfort following wisdom teeth extractions, which could be alleviated with prescription or drugstore pain relievers and cool packs held against the face. Our team will provide you with tips to help you care for your dental health while you heal and set up a check-in visit to assess your surgical sites while they heal.