Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are typically the last set of teeth to develop, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. Because they are the final teeth to erupt, they often face limited space in the jaw, making proper alignment a challenge. This lack of room can cause wisdom teeth to become impacted, meaning they cannot fully emerge through the gum tissue or jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth may grow at odd angles, remain partially erupted or fail to emerge at all, leading to several dental concerns.
When wisdom teeth do not emerge correctly, they can disturb the natural alignment of your teeth, undoing the results of previous orthodontic treatments or simply disrupting a balanced bite. Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, potentially causing damage to their structure or roots. They are also more prone to decay since they are challenging to clean thoroughly. Bacteria and food particles easily accumulate around partially erupted wisdom teeth, which can lead to decay, gum inflammation and infections that may spread to surrounding areas if left untreated.
In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts to form. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop around the crown of the tooth, which, if not addressed, can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth. Cyst formation is a serious condition that may require more extensive surgical intervention if it is not identified early.
Our experienced dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal to help you avoid these potential issues and to preserve your oral health. Before deciding on a course of action, Dr. Matthew Phillips will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is the best option for your health. This proactive approach can prevent complications down the line and reduce the risk of infection, pain and structural issues in your mouth.
The procedure for wisdom teeth removal is designed to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Local anesthesia or sedation options are typically offered to help minimize discomfort. After the extraction, our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a safe and speedy recovery. Common post-operative care includes managing swelling, avoiding certain foods and keeping the area clean to prevent infection.
By addressing wisdom teeth issues early, you can maintain a healthier, more comfortable smile for years to come. If you have questions about wisdom teeth removal in Tempe, Arizona, or would like to schedule a consultation with our dentist, reach out to 3rd Set Smiles at 480-334-2752.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my wisdom teeth may need to be removed?
Common signs include pain in the back of your mouth, swelling around the gums or difficulty opening your jaw fully. If you notice redness or infection near the molars, or if food frequently becomes trapped there, it may be time to consult Dr. Phillips.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery generally takes about one to two weeks. Most people experience mild swelling and discomfort initially, which subsides within a few days. Our dentist and team will provide guidelines to help speed up healing, such as avoiding hard foods, rinsing with salt water and managing pain with prescribed medication.
What are the risks of not removing impacted wisdom teeth?
Leaving impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various complications, including infections, cysts and even jawbone damage. They may also push other teeth out of alignment or damage adjacent teeth. Addressing these issues early helps prevent more extensive dental treatments in the future.
Can I go back to work or school the day after surgery?
It is recommended to rest for at least a day or two following surgery. Many people can resume regular activities within a few days, though some discomfort may linger. Our dentist may also advise avoiding strenuous activities for a few days to prevent complications in healing.
What areas do you serve?
We provide wisdom teeth removal in Tempe, Arizona, and to our neighbors in the surrounding Phoenix-Metro area, including Apache Junction, Chandler, Gilbert, Guadalupe, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Sun City, Arizona. Contact our office for more information.