To Keep or Not to Keep? Deciding on Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom Tooth Extraction and Oral Surgery: What You Need to Know
Expert Insight from Dr. Brandon Toscano at Neighborhood Dental in Gretna, NE
For many, wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery. It is often recommended when wisdom teeth are impacted, causing discomfort or crowding other teeth. Dr. Brandon Toscano is proud to extract wisdom teeth in Gretna, Nebraska, and help patients experience smooth and comfortable recoveries.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are remnants from our evolutionary past. Thousands of years ago, our ancestors relied on a diet of tough, raw plants, roots, nuts, and meat, which required more chewing power and led to rapid wear on their teeth. Wisdom teeth were a valuable set of “back-up” molars that helped replace worn-down teeth as they aged.
Over time, however, our diets evolved to include softer, cooked foods, and modern dental care allowed us to maintain our teeth longer. As our jaw sizes reduced, wisdom teeth became less necessary for chewing and more problematic, often leading to crowding or impaction since there’s usually not enough room for them to grow in properly.
So, while wisdom teeth served a purpose for our ancestors, they are now more of a vestigial feature – one that we often don’t need but that sometimes causes issues requiring removal.
How Do I Know If I Need My Wisdom Tooth Removed?
Due to limited space in the jaw, they often become impacted, meaning they cannot fully erupt through the gums. The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on several factors related to your oral health and comfort. Here are a few key reasons why wisdom teeth are often recommended for removal:
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth frequently don’t have enough room to fully erupt, causing them to become trapped, or “impacted,” in the gums or jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, and even infections if not treated.
- Crowding: When wisdom teeth come in, they can push against other teeth, causing crowding or shifting. This can undo the results of previous orthodontic treatments and cause issues with alignment.
- Pain and Discomfort: Wisdom teeth may cause ongoing pain in the jaw or nearby teeth, which can affect daily life. Removing them can alleviate this discomfort and prevent further complications.
- Risk of Cavities or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are positioned at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean thoroughly. This can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease, especially if they are partially erupted.
- Prevention: In some cases, even if wisdom teeth aren’t currently causing issues, dentists may recommend removal to prevent potential problems down the road.
If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, a consultation with an experienced dentist, like Dr. Brandon Toscano at Neighborhood Dental in Gretna, can help. Dr. Toscano can assess your teeth and discuss whether extraction is the best option for you based on your unique situation.
What to Expect During a Wisdom Tooth Removal
Dr. Toscano prioritizes patient comfort and will discuss sedation options and a personalized plan for your wisdom tooth extraction. The procedure itself is often quick, and with advanced techniques, most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Side Effects of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After the tooth extraction, you may notice common side effects, such as:
- Mild swelling around the gums and cheeks
- Minor bleeding at the extraction site
- Some discomfort or tenderness
These side effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few days.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery: Tips and Timeline
Proper care after your procedure is essential for a smooth recovery. Dr. Toscano and the team at Neighborhood Dental recommend the following tips for a successful healing process:
- Rest and Hydration: Take it easy for the first 24 hours and keep hydrated.
- Avoid Straws: Using a straw can dislodge the blood clot needed for healing, leading to a condition known as dry socket.
- Use Ice Packs: Apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Soft Foods: Stick to a soft diet (soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes) to avoid irritating the site.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush carefully, avoiding the extraction area, and rinse with warm salt water to keep your mouth clean.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
Most patients start feeling better within a few days, but complete healing can take up to two weeks. Dr. Toscano will provide a personalized recovery plan and follow-up care as needed to ensure proper healing. If you have questions or discomfort at any time, contact your Gretna dentist.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Toscano Today!
Dr. Toscano and our team at Neighborhood Dental in Gretna are ready to answer your questions and guide you through the wisdom tooth removal process. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options for oral surgery and recovery.
