Third Molar Surgery (Wisdom Teeth)
Wisdom Teeth Presentation |
To provide you with a better understanding of wisdom teeth, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to wisdom teeth are discussed. |
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download. |
Wisdom Teeth are usually the last teeth to erupt into the mouth; they typically erupt between the ages of 16 – 20 years. Many wisdom teeth do not erupt because our jaw bone has decreased in size, leaving little or no room for third molar eruption.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Overview |
For a brief narrated overview of the wisdom tooth removal process, please click the image on the left. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about wisdom teeth. |
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download. |
Many long term scientific studies show retained and impacted third molars cause chronic inflammation which can affect the adjacent teeth and possibly your general health. Early removal of wisdom teeth, prior to completion of root formation, can decrease complications such as numbness in lip or tongue and sinus penetration. Early removal can result in more complete healing of adjacent tissues. Other benefits of early removal include less periodontal disease, fewer orthodontic crowding problems, fewer acute painful infections, less chronic inflammation and fewer cystic formations.
Patient Evaluation
It is recommended that a screening panoramic X-ray film or CT scan be taken during the middle teenage years. These films can help Dr. Cameron counsel you regarding the appropriate timing of treatment. Early x-ray evaluation can be performed by your orthodontist, general dentist or Dr. Cameron. Surgical treatment of third molars is usually accomplished in our outpatient facility using various anesthetic techniques.
Treatment Preparation
Preparation for your treatment begins at your consultation. You will receive a personalized examination and explanation of your needs. You will receive both preoperative and post operative instructions and prescriptions necessary for your convalescence (see pre & post operative instructions on the website). We will also review your surgical risks and benefits with you and completion of our surgical and anesthesia consent forms will occur. The type of anesthesia will be determined and an estimate of treatment time will be made.
Day of Surgery
Our patients are asked to fill their prescription prior to the day of treatment. You will be asked to start your antibiotics one day prior to treatment. You should arrive 15 minutes prior to your surgical appointment. We ask a responsible adult to accompany anyone who is to receive anesthesia other than local anesthesia. Minors (patients under age 18) need a parent to be present for treatment. The time in the office is usually 1 ½ - 2 hours; approximately one half of this time is for your surgical care.
Surgical Care
Most patients will receive intravenous and local anesthesia for removal of their wisdom teeth. The patient will basically take a nap. The third molars are removed using standard surgical techniques. Most patients will have small flaps of soft tissue created to expose the underlying third molars. Many teeth are removed in pieces to prevent trauma to adjacent teeth and to minimize bone removal. Following removal of the teeth, the socket is meticulously cleaned and all bony edges smoothed. The flaps are replaced and sutured. The sutures do not require removal.
Post Operative Care
Your specific post operative instructions will be reviewed with your parent or the accompanying adult. Please refer to our printed Post Operative Instructions for Third Molars provided. Our nursing staff will call you before we leave the office to clarify any issues. If you have a problem you can reach us at 410-337-7755.
If extended bleeding occurs, it is typically a result of not biting on your gauze. You should bite until you feel some pressure. Bite on gauze and change the gauze every 15 – 20 minutes until bleeding subsides. Call us if bleeding continues.
Most late (after 7 days) pain and swelling are related to food in the sockets. Drinking liquids is better than chewing solids. Chewing usually causes early loss of sutures, premature opening of the socket and potential loss of the blood clot (called dry socket).
Dry sockets are a condition where the “healing” clot is damaged and dissolves. This process occurs between 3 and 10 days. Dry sockets usually occur in the lower sockets. Causes of dry sockets include smoking, food impaction in the socket, early physical activity such as running and excessive rinsing and cleaning.
Eating popcorn will likely cause infections for 2-3 months following treatment.