Patient Education

Many people wonder, “Should I keep my wisdom teeth?” While it might seem easier to leave them alone, removing your wisdom teeth is the best decision in most cases.

At A+ Family Dentistry in San Diego, we specialize in safe, comfortable dental surgery wisdom teeth procedures. Learn how we can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Are They Often Removed?

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars. They tend to emerge in the late teens or early twenties.

Historically, these teeth served a valuable purpose when human diets consisted of rougher foods like roots, nuts, and raw meats. However, modern diets and improved dental care have rendered them less necessary. Most people’s jaws no longer have the space to accommodate these additional molars.

Without enough room to grow properly, wisdom teeth can become impacted. It means they are trapped under the gum line or only partially erupt.

Such a condition can lead to several wisdom teeth complications, including:

• Crowding of nearby teeth
• Cysts or tumors
• Gum infections
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Persistent pain

Given these potential issues, many dental professionals recommend preemptive dental health wisdom teeth removal before problems begin.

Should I Keep My Wisdom Teeth?

Postponing or avoiding wisdom teeth removal can seriously affect your oral health. Considering keeping your wisdom teeth, it is essential to weigh the risks carefully.

Impaction

Impacted wisdom teeth happen when they do not come out well and get trapped beneath the gums or jawbone. They often require more complex surgical intervention, which can increase the cost of wisdom teeth removal over time.

Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Food bits and plaque can get trapped around these teeth, leading to painful gum infections. If you leave it untreated, infections can spread.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth

Wisdom teeth that push up against your second molars can cause damage. From there, you can experience cavities, bone loss, or even the need for additional dental work.

Long-Term Effects of Wisdom Teeth

If complications with wisdom teeth are not addressed soon, they can have lasting consequences. Misalignment, shifting teeth, and jaw problems can occur. Altogether, they can compromise your smile and overall dental health.

For all these reasons, early removal is often the best choice to protect your dental health and wisdom teeth and maintain your long-term oral well-being.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure at A+ Family Dentistry

When you choose A+ Family Dentistry for your dental surgery wisdom teeth removal, you can expect the highest possible level of care and custom treatment. Our experienced dental surgeons are committed to making the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Here is what you can expect:

Consultation and Planning

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. We will take digital X-rays.

This will help assess the status of your wisdom teeth and determine the best plan of action. We will also discuss the cost of wisdom teeth removal and payment options.

The Day of Surgery

• Some anesthesia or sedation will be administered
• Small incisions are made in the gums to access the teeth
• Teeth are removed with care
• The surgical sites are cleaned and stitched as needed

Tried and True Recovery Tips and What to Expect Afterward

Recovery from wisdom teeth removal is usually straightforward, but proper aftercare is key to avoiding complications and speeding up healing. At A+ Family Dentistry, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support your recovery.

Here is what you should expect from the initial recovery period:

• Rest for the first two days
• Keep gauze pads over the surgical sites
• Use ice packs for swelling reduction
• Take pain meds as directed

Diet Adjustments

For the first few days, opt for softer foods like mashed potatoes or soup. Stay away from hard or spicy foods that could cause the surgical sites to flare up.

Oral Hygiene

Rinse out your mouth with slightly warm salt water. You should start this 24 hours after surgery to keep the area clean. Avoid brushing near the extraction sites until your dentist advises it is safe.