The Truth About Wisdom Teeth and Why We Extract Them

Let’s discuss a common experience that many people go through: wisdom teeth removal. Have you ever asked your friends or family if they’ve had their wisdom teeth taken out? For some, these teeth never cause any issues—they emerge quietly and settle in without causing any trouble. However, wisdom teeth can become quite problematic for others, often requiring surgical removal before they fully emerge. What exactly makes these teeth so unpredictable? At Vegas Dental Experts, we understand the curiosity and anxiety that comes with wisdom teeth. Whether you’re trying to understand why these need to be removed or just looking for reassurance before your own procedure, we’re here to guide you through each step, ensuring you feel informed and at ease.

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth typically appear during our late teens or early twenties. However, their impact varies, causing confusion about why they can be problematic for some individuals while remaining benign for others. The main issue with these molars arises from the lack of space in the jaw to accommodate these extra molars. As a result, when wisdom teeth try to break through the gums, they may become impacted. They can trap themselves in your jawbone or gums, leading to painful crowding and misalignment of your other teeth.

On the other hand, if there is sufficient space in the jaw, wisdom teeth can emerge without any complications. In these cases, the teeth can grow in fully and align properly with the rest of the teeth, presenting no problems at all.

Think of your wisdom teeth as clothes in an overstuffed closet. In a spacious closet, clothes hang neatly, easily accessible, and orderly. But in a cramped closet, clothes become tangled, crumpled, and difficult to manage. Similarly, when there’s ample room in the jaw, these teeth emerge without issue. But in a tighter jaw, these teeth can overlap, leading to discomfort and disorder in your mouth.

How Will I Know if I Require Extraction?

Understanding whether your wisdom teeth need removal involves recognizing certain indicators. Here are a few key signs to look out for:

• Pain and swelling: You will most commonly notice discomfort around the tooth or jaw area. Swelling of the gums in the back of the mouth often accompanies this symptom.
• Infection: If you notice red, swollen gums, possibly accompanied by a bad taste in your mouth or difficulty opening your jaw, these could be signs of infection caused by a partially erupted wisdom tooth that is difficult to clean.
• Damage to neighboring teeth: Your wisdom tooth can push against adjacent teeth, causing pain and possible misalignment of your other teeth, which might necessitate orthodontic treatments to correct.
• Crowding: Limited space in your mouth can lead to crowding, as emerging wisdom teeth push other teeth out of alignment.

Even if you’re not experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Chin might suggest removing your wisdom teeth as a precaution to prevent problems down the road. He’ll take a look and let you know if this is the best option, helping you avoid any future discomfort or complications.

What Can I Expect From My Extraction?

Dr. Chin will examine your mouth to determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed. The removal process is routine and typically performed under sedation to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. At Vegas Dental Experts, we offer several sedation options. These options are tailored to your comfort level and the complexity of your case.

After the extraction, we will provide you with detailed care instructions to ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible. This includes advice on managing swelling, pain, or bleeding and recommendations for a diet that will aid in your recovery.

We also offer an innovative treatment called L-PRF Therapy (Leukocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin). This treatment option uses your blood to enhance surgical site healing. L-PRF is created by concentrating platelets and white blood cells from your blood, forming a natural fibrin matrix. When applied to the extraction site, it releases growth factors that accelerate healing. It also helps to reduce pain and decrease the risk of infection.

Do You Have Questions About Your Wisdom Teeth?

Are you experiencing discomfort in your jaw or have questions about whether wisdom teeth extraction is right for you? At Vegas Dental Experts, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about your dental health. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us take the worry out of wisdom tooth removal and help you achieve a healthier, pain-free smile.