Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that grow in for adults, but they don’t serve much of a function for us today. Getting your wisdom teeth removed is almost a right of passage for teenagers and young adults, but how do you know when it’s time to get them removed?
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that grow in. For the vast majority of us, that means that we’ll receive our wisdom teeth when we’re around 17-20 years old, but many people have impacted wisdom teeth that never erupt through the gum line at all.
Why Get a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
When wisdom teeth do erupt, they are located so far in the back of our mouths that it’s often hard to keep them properly clean even if you do brush and floss your teeth diligently. Moreover, wisdom teeth often erupt crookedly. Because of this, it’s easy for plaque and bacteria to form on their surface and under the gum line, which can develop into cavities and decay. In fact, pericoronitis, which is inflammation around the gum line of the wisdom tooth, is the primary reason why people opt to get their wisdom teeth removed.
How Do I Decide if I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
You should consider a wisdom tooth removal if you’re experiencing the following:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bad taste in mouth
- Bleeding around gums
It’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist if you believe that you need your wisdom teeth removed. If you have impacted wisdom teeth, you might want to consider getting them removed so that they do not cause complications when they erupt.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure
A wisdom tooth extraction is a pretty simple extraction procedure, and we’ll be sure to keep you relaxed and at ease during the procedure so you don’t feel a thing.
After Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions, but we’ll provide you with some basic ones to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to be mindful about changing out the gauze at your extraction sites until they’ve stopped bleeding. Once they’re healing, it’s important to keep the extraction areas completely clear of food particles and bacteria so that they do not become infected. You may have to eat soft or liquid foods until your extraction sites completely heal, which can take a week to ten days. After that, you should start feeling back to normal again!
Wisdom Teeth Removal in North Carolina
If you’re thinking about a wisdom tooth extraction, contact us to schedule a consultation! You can call one of our offices or schedule an appointment online. Our friendly staff will help answer any questions that you might have before your appointment, and you can take a look at our first visit resources to make your first visit go smoothly. We look forward to treating you!