Summer Break is the Wise Time for Tooth Removal With Dr. Platt

dentist showing a female patient x-rays of her wisdom teeth

As the school year winds down and summer break approaches, many students and parents start planning vacations, summer camps, and relaxation. However, summer break also presents the perfect opportunity to address important health concerns that might have been put on hold during the busy academic year. One such health concern is the removal of wisdom teeth. At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we believe, as do many of our patients, that summer is the ideal time to consider wisdom teeth removal with Dr. Platt.  Why?  Well, let’s discuss!

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

First, let’s define what we are talking about.  What are wisdom teeth, exactly?  Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that most people develop in their late teens or early twenties. These teeth are located at the very back of your mouth, one in each quadrant. Many individuals experience complications such as pain, infection, or damage to other teeth as a result of a lack of space for wisdom teeth to erupt through the gum line, though wisdom teeth can be removed before symptoms ever occur.

Why Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed (more on that in a minute), but it is often required due to potential complications. Here are some common reasons why removal is recommended:

  • Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become trapped (impacted) within the jawbone or gums, causing pain and swelling.
  • Crowding: If there isn’t enough space in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to come in properly, they can push against other teeth, causing misalignment.
  • Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections and gum disease.
  • Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the development of cysts or even benign tumors, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

Complications of Not Removing Wisdom Teeth

Failing to address problematic wisdom teeth can lead to several serious issues, including:

  • Severe Pain: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort and pain.
  • Infections: Bacteria buildup around partially erupted teeth can lead to painful infections.
  • Damage to Other Teeth: The pressure from impacted wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth, leading to additional dental issues.
  • Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay.

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), about 85% of people will need their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives. Additionally, studies indicate that up to 30% of people experience complications with their wisdom teeth, such as infection or impaction.

The Importance of Professional Evaluation

 At the end of the day, not all wisdom teeth are created equal. A consultation with a qualified dental professional, like Dr. Jay Platt, is essential to determine whether having your wisdom teeth removed is necessary to optimize your oral health. During your complimentary consultation at Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, Dr. Platt will conduct a thorough evaluation using X-rays and other diagnostic tools to assess your individual situation, helping you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with extraction.

The Wisdom Tooth Evaluation and Procedure

The evaluation process is straightforward and painless. Dr. Platt will examine your dental history, perform a physical examination, and take X-rays to get a clear view of your wisdom teeth and their position. If removal is recommended, the procedure itself is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and your comfort level.

Recovery Time

One of the main concerns about wisdom teeth removal is the recovery period.  Many patients will put off having a procedure performed because they don’t think they have time to recover from the procedure before needing to return to their daily life. For many of our wisdom teeth patients, who are typically adolescents and young adults, this question is often tied to school or extra curricular activities.

The good news is that recovery is generally swift. Most patients experience swelling and mild discomfort for a few days, with a complete recovery typically within one to two weeks. Summer break offers a unique window of time where students can undergo wisdom teeth removal and fully recover without the added stress of academic commitments. 

By scheduling your wisdom teeth removal during the summer, you can ensure you have plenty of time to rest and recover without missing school, and you will still have plenty of time for fun in the summer sun with friends and family! 

While some patients may experience pain when swallowing after wisdom tooth removal, this is typically a temporary issue that can be managed with proper care and medication.

At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care. Our complimentary consultations make it easy to start the process and determine the best course of action for your wisdom teeth. Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back—take advantage of your summer break and prioritize your oral health.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Platt and take the first step toward a healthier smile!