When To Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to appear—usually between the ages of 17 and 22. Unfortunately, by that time, most people don’t have enough space in their jawbone for these teeth. As a result, they may:
- Remain impacted in the jawbone
- Appear at an irregular angle
- Damage neighboring teeth
- Put excessive pressure on the jawbone and teeth
- Cause overcrowding
These issues can increase the chances of tooth infection, gum inflammation and cavities. Before these issues become severe, our Houston specialists recommend timely wisdom teeth removal to maintain your oral health.
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Wisdom Teeth Removal Process At Our Clinic in Houston, TX
At the time of your consultation, our dentist will evaluate your third molars and record digital X-rays to determine their position, shape, and angulation. We will begin the process by injecting a local anesthetic, which numbs the area and eliminates pain.
For the removal of impacted wisdom teeth, a minor oral surgery is required. After numbing the area, we make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. In some cases, we may cut through some part of the surrounding bone to expose the tooth.
Our dentist may also split the tooth into smaller sections for easier removal. Once the tooth is extracted, we will suture the area and pack it with gauze to promote healing.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When the wisdom tooth removal procedure is complete, our team at our clinic in Houston will give you a set of post-op instructions. You may experience slight pain or swelling on the day of surgery, but it usually fades within 24 hours.
The recovery time depends on the complexity of the process, your body’s healing abilities, and how well you follow aftercare guidelines. In most cases, full recovery takes about 3 to 4 weeks. By carefully following our dentist’s guidelines, you can recover faster and reduce the risk of complications.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it always necessary to remove wisdom teeth?
When can I eat normally after having my wisdom teeth removed?
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Schedule An Appointment Today
If you or your teen has impacted third molars, consult our dental specialists today for wisdom teeth removal in Houston, TX. Call us at (713) 782-3123 to schedule an appointment.
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