Wisdom Tooth Removal
What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom Tooth Removal, oftentimes called wisdom teeth extraction, is a surgical process wherein the wisdom teeth are pulled out due to complications found by an oral care professional. Wisdom teeth are the third molar teeth located at the back corners of the mouth.
The extraction procedure is considered when the wisdom tooth is impacted, which means it can be trapped, or stuck, in your gums or jawbone, or against nearby teeth.
There are other factors that dentists might consider to determine if patients are in need of a wisdom tooth removal procedure. These include harmful possibilities for your oral health, such as the teeth growing at the wrong angle, lack of room in the jaw for extra molars, cavities, or gum diseases around your wisdom teeth, among others.
How does a Wisdom Tooth Removal procedure go?
- Removing the gum tissue in order to expose and access the tooth and bone.
- Taking out the bone covering the tooth.
- Removing the tooth.
- Cleaning the area to get rid of any debris that may be left out.
- Stitching up the area to close the wound to let it heal.
- Placing gauze over the area to control the bleeding.
What are the alternatives to a wisdom tooth removal procedure?
If the patient is now comfortable with the procedure, wisdom tooth removal can be avoided through:
Operculectomy, or the removal of the gum tissue over the tooth, or
Coronectomy, or removing the crown of the tooth. This is only considered if the root of the tooth is close to the nerve supplying the feeling to the patient’s lower lip.
Getting adult braces is also an alternative to a wisdom tooth removal procedure, as it helps move teeth that are close to the wisdom tooth away, reducing possible pain. If extraction is apparently considered, it will be easier to perform.