Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge in the late teens or early twenties and can cause issues like crowding, impaction, and discomfort. When these teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, removal is often the best solution to protect your oral health. At Aesthetic Dental Centers, we provide expert wisdom teeth extractions to prevent complications and keep your smile healthy and pain-free.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth typically make their appearance between ages 17 and 21—but unlike our ancestors, we don’t really need them anymore. While they once helped with chewing tough foods, modern diets have made them more of a leftover relic than a necessity. If they erupt properly, you might spot them easily, but in many cases, they remain hidden beneath the gums. That’s where panoramic X-rays come in, allowing dentists to assess their position and determine if they might cause problems. As they emerge, wisdom teeth can create pressure or a dull throbbing in the jaw, signaling that it may be time for a closer look.
Wisdom Teeth FAQ
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. Some people have enough space in their jaw for third molars to emerge properly without causing issues. However, in many cases, they grow at an angle, become impacted (stuck beneath the gums), or create crowding, leading to complications that require removal.
How do I know if my third molars need to be removed?
Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth through an oral exam and panoramic X-rays. Signs that they may need removal include:
- Pain or pressure in the back of your jaw
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Difficulty cleaning around the molars
- Shifting teeth due to crowding
- Cysts, infections, or decay developing around impacted teeth
What happens if I don't remove problematic third molars?
Leaving impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth untreated can lead to infections, damage to neighboring teeth, cysts, and even jaw pain. Over time, they may also contribute to alignment issues, making future orthodontic treatment more complex.
Who performs extractions at aesthetic dental center?
At Aesthetic Dental Centers, wisdom teeth removal is performed by Dr. Wong-Sang Lee, our highly skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Lee specializes in surgical extractions and advanced techniques, ensuring a comfortable, precise, and safe procedure for every patient.
What is the procedure like?
The process typically includes:
- Consultation & X-Rays – Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the complexity of your case.
- Extraction – Dr. Lee carefully removes the wisdom teeth, either by simple extraction or a minor surgical procedure if they are impacted.
- Stitching & Recovery – If needed, sutures will be placed to aid healing, and gauze will be used to manage bleeding.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
It depends on the level of anesthesia chosen. With local anesthesia, you’ll remain awake but won’t feel pain. If you opt for sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll be relaxed or fully asleep during the procedure. Dr. Lee will discuss the best option for your needs and comfort.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients recover within a few days to a week. Swelling, mild discomfort, and limited jaw movement are common but improve with proper aftercare. Complete healing of the surgical site can take a few weeks.
What is dry socket and how can I prevent it?
Dry socket happens when the protective blood clot in the extraction site is lost, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. To prevent this:
- Avoid smoking or using a straw for at least a week.
- Follow post-op instructions carefully.
- If you experience intense pain a few days after surgery, contact our office for treatment.