What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that come in between the late teens and mid-twenties.
They are called “wisdom teeth” because they usually come in at the point that a person comes into maturity. Research actually shows that your brain might reach full maturity at the point that your wisdom teeth make their appearance.
Why do I need to see a Dentist about my Wisdom Tooth?
Wisdom teeth often grow into the mouth misaligned and can damage nearby teeth, nerves, or even the jawbone. Wisdom teeth can also be impacted if they do not fully grow past the surface of the gums. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, you run a greater risk of bacterial infections and decay.
A consultation with your dentist will help you understand your options. Sometimes dentists will extract wisdom teeth before they become a problem. The sooner and younger you are when you deal with them, the less recovery time will be needed.
If your wisdom teeth need to be removed, two things could happen:
- If the wisdom tooth is fully exposed, it can be removed as any other tooth.
- If the wisdom tooth is impacted, and grew in under the gum, a minor surgery will be needed. A small incision will be made, and the tooth will be extracted in pieces.
The extraction of a wisdom tooth will follow these steps:
- The area of your gums and mouth surrounding the tooth will be given a local anesthetic.
- Depending on your situation, you might also be given a mild sedative. The most mild is known as “laughing gas”. If you are recommended this sedative, you can drive yourself home. If you are in need of something stronger, you will be told ahead of time that you need to arrange a ride home, as you may be drowsy after you wake up.
- After the treatment is complete, you will be given thorough instructions for post-treatment care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth
What are wisdom teeth, and why might they need to be removed at Cooper Dental Group?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. Since there is often insufficient space for them, they can become impacted, misaligned or cause crowding. At Cooper Dental Group, Dr. Andrew Perkins and Dr. Crain evaluate wisdom teeth during exams and use X-rays to determine if removal is necessary to prevent pain infection or damage to surrounding teeth.
Who performs wisdom teeth removal at Cooper Dental Group?
Extractions are performed by Dr. Andrew Perkins or Dr. Crain in our comfortable office setting. Both doctors are experts in managing simple and surgical wisdom tooth removal. They work closely with our support team to ensure each patient receives personalized attention and safe care throughout the procedure.
How do I know if I need to have wisdom teeth removed?
Persistent pain, swelling, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or cysts developing around the wisdom teeth are signs that an extraction may be needed. Dr. Perkins or Dr. Crain will review your dental history, conduct a clinical exam, and study X-rays before recommending whether removal or monitoring is the best course of action for your oral health.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful, and what type of anesthesia is used?
Extractions are performed using local anesthesia to numb the area, so most patients experience little or no pain during the procedure. For patients with higher anxiety or complex cases, we offer sedation options to ensure a calm and comfortable experience. After the procedure, some discomfort or swelling is common but can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.
How long does the wisdom teeth removal process take, and how many visits are required?
Most extractions are completed in a single appointment that lasts about thirty minutes to one hour, depending on the number of teeth being removed and their position. If multiple wisdom teeth need removal or the case is more complex, Dr. Perkins or Dr. Crain may schedule additional time or follow-up visits to ensure proper healing and care.
What can I expect during recovery, and when can I return to normal activities?
Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. Following our post-operative instructions for pain management, rest, and diet are essential. Eat soft foods, avoid using straws, rinse gently with salt water, and maintain light activity levels. Many patients can return to school or work within two to three days and resume full activities within a week.
How should I care for myself after wisdom teeth removal at Cooper Dental Group?
Proper aftercare supports healing and prevents complications. Keep the gauze in place to control bleeding during the first hours. Take medications as directed. Use cold compresses to reduce swelling. Switch to soft foods for several days. Begin gentle rinses with warm salt water after twenty-four hours. Continue brushing your teeth, avoiding the extraction sites until healing progresses. Attend follow-up visits so Dr. Perkins or Dr. Crain can assess your healing and remove any stitches if needed.
