So you have some questions about wisdom teeth removal? Well, here at Helotes Family Dentistry, we have answers! These are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about wisdom teeth removal:
Does Everyone Need Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
No, not necessarily! While many patients have one to four wisdom teeth, or “third molars”, some people never develop these teeth. If wisdom teeth come in with absolutely no problems and are easy to keep clean and healthy, they don’t need to be removed. However, wisdom teeth should be removed when they are causing problems or if it looks like they are going to cause future problems, like pain, crowding, decay, and/or infection.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Oftentimes, patients get them removed in their late teens or early twenties before they even erupt. By extracting them in this early stage, you can lessen your chances of developing possible complications and avoid potential pain as they emerge. That being said, you can still get them removed at any age.
How Do I Know If I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At your routine checkups, we will monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and determine if and/or when they should be removed. If your third molars have already emerged, we can also evaluate whether they are safe to keep. If you still have your wisdom teeth and experience any tooth pain, jaw stiffness or pain, swollen or bleeding gums, consistent bad breath, or trouble opening your mouth, contact us for a consultation.
What Happens If I Don’t Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If our team recommends wisdom teeth extraction and you don’t go through with the procedure, it could spell trouble for you down the road. Your wisdom teeth could get stuck coming out of your gums and lead to a painful infection. They could also come in at an angle or there might not be room for them in your mouth. This can push your teeth out of alignment and make your back teeth more difficult to clean, which means an increased risk of decay, cavities, and gum disease.
How Long Is the Recovery Time After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It’s normal to experience discomfort for a few days after surgery. Although you might be feeling back to your normal self in just a week, it’s also possible to have soft tissue sensitivity for several weeks. But don’t worry–before your procedure, we’ll go over specific post-operative instructions, like what to eat and drink, so you can heal as quickly as possible.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Helotes, TX
Didn’t see your question in this post? We’re so sorry we missed it! Feel free to contact us and one of our expert team members would be happy to give you an answer. You can also book an appointment at our dental office for a wisdom teeth removal consultation if you think you need to get the procedure done.
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