Wisdom teeth extraction: three not-so-little words that many of us tend to get nervous about. Like root canal therapy and even simple tooth extraction, having your wisdom teeth removed can sound like a scary thing.
But don’t worry! This is a widespread procedure because a large majority of people need to have their wisdom teeth taken out to improve their oral health. All dentists and oral surgeons can perform this procedure, so you’ll be in good hands the entire appointment.
For more information about wisdom teeth removal in NW Calgary, contact our local dental practice today.
Teeth Extractions Explained
As is evident by its name, tooth extraction involves taking out a tooth to help repair your smile. Such a procedure is done for several reasons, such as an oral infection, excess decay, overcrowding, your tooth is severely damaged, and to prepare for future orthodontic treatment.
There are two main types of dental extractions: simple and surgical.
Simple teeth extractions
When a tooth that is visible in your mouth is removed, this is referred to as a simple extraction. No surgery is required, making the procedure minimally invasive.
During your appointment, your dentist or oral surgeon will first conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. They’ll also take several x-rays, as this allows them to identify the current state of your oral health and determine the degree of care you require. You’ll be given local anesthesia to keep you comfortable and free of pain. Your affected tooth will be rocked back and forth to loosen it from its socket before being fully extracted with a pair of dental forceps.
The site will be thoroughly cleaned, and stitches shut before you go.
Surgical tooth extractions
In contrast, a surgical extraction involves the removal of teeth that you cannot see or those that have only partially erupted. A more extensive procedure is needed to reach the tooth and take it out.
The most well-known example of a surgical extraction is wisdom teeth removal.
Also known as your third molars, wisdom teeth grow at the very back of our mouths. This event typically occurs between the ages of 17 to 26. Not everyone has wisdom teeth, but most do.
Sometimes, our wisdom teeth will fit comfortably in our mouths, and sometimes, they’ll partially or fully erupt. There are some signs that you can keep an eye out for; should experience any of these symptoms, get in touch with a dentist near you.
1. Gum irritation
Gum irritation refers to the swollen and red gum tissue. This symptom can be a sign of a few different dental problems, such as periodontal disease, an infected pulp, or your wisdom teeth need to be extracted.
2. Severe pain around your tooth
Once again, oral pain is a sign of multiple different issues. But if you’re experiencing chronic pain, notably at the back of your mouth, it might point towards your wisdom teeth coming in. When they erupt, sometimes they can impact our sinus and lead to headaches.
3. A bad taste in your mouth
“Pockets”: you have heard of this term before, as it’s often associated with wisdom teeth. As your teeth start to come in, they can create pockets or spaces where bacteria and plaque can amalgamate. These spaces are usually hard to brush, leading to bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth.
Having your wisdom teeth removed by a dentist in NW Calgary eliminates these pockets and helps you maintain good oral hygiene.
4. It’s hard to eat or open your mouth
Anatomically speaking, our wisdom teeth are very close to our jawbone. So, when they start to erupt, they can exert unwanted pressure on our jaw. It can also make our bones feel stiff and, in turn, causes difficulty opening and closing our mouth.
5. If your dentist recommends it
A reason why visiting your dentist when you have dental problems is considered common sense is because they’re experts! These health professionals are well-trained in their field and understand the systems of our oral cavity better than we ever could. Not to mention, you shouldn’t believe everything you read online. Consulting with a dentist or an oral surgeon about any symptoms you’re experiencing is the best thing you can do. They’ll be able to identify your issue and help you resolve it.
Are you looking to learn more about your wisdom teeth? Are you interested in wisdom teeth removal near you? Call or come into Dentrix Dental Care today! Our staffs are here to walk with you on your dental journey.