Wisdom Teeth Extractions with Dr. Platt
What are Wisdom Teeth and Where are Wisdom Teeth Located?
Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are permanent teeth located in the back corners of the top and bottom jaw. A common question for many is how long do wisdom teeth take to come in. The answer is different for each person, but typically it will range from your early teenage years to your mid 20s. A good, average range to have in mind is around ages 17 to 21.
Dr. Platt will check your wisdom teeth to evaluate space and progress and when it’s best to take them out.
Oral Examination
Dr. Platt can examine the wisdom teeth to identify any current or potential dental problems. This examination involves an oral exam and x-rays. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Dentists, orthodontists, or surgeons usually assess patients in their mid-teenage years.
Wisdom tooth procedures at our office are outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day as your surgery. Patient comfort is our number one goal, and sedation techniques and anesthesia are utilized to ensure the best possible experience. Dr. Platt is trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing multiple different types of anesthesia for patients.
Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If there is a lack of space in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt or break through the gum line, a number of problems can happen.
Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients, this procedure should occur as early as 12 or 13. In other patients it may not be until the early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30, but each case should be evaluated individually.
Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:
Infection:
The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for the teeth to come in, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.
Cyst Formation:
Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are basically fluid-filled “bubbles” in the jawbone that happen when teeth get stuck and slowly grow, damaging nearby jawbone and sometimes teeth.
Tumors can also be associated with delayed removal of wisdom teeth, although they are rare. If you do not remove your wisdom teeth in your teenage years, your oral surgeon may find it difficult to treat them.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth:
When there is not enough space to clean around the wisdom tooth, it can harm the second molar, the tooth in front of it. This can lead to gum problems, bone loss around the tooth, or tooth decay.
What If I Don’t Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed As A Teenager Or Young Adult?
As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate.
Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your wisdom teeth are stuck and you don’t remove them when you’re younger, it’s often best to wait until you have a specific problem like a cyst or gum disease before having them taken out.
What Happens On The Day Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?
Many people choose to be sedated when they get their wisdom teeth removed because they’d rather not feel or remember the experience. You will be provided with appropriate anesthesia options at your consultation. All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Our office staff has the training, licensing, and experience to provide the various types of anesthesia.
We offer these services in a very safe place. We use modern equipment to keep an eye on you, and our staff is well-trained and experienced. The Surgical Care Team, the office, and Dr. Platt get checked regularly by the Dental Examiners Board.
On the day of your procedure, you will take medications to help minimize post-operative pain and swelling. Please bring a parent or adult who is over 18 years old with you when you come to the office. They should stay with you for the remainder of the day.
The procedure will take about 30 to 60 minutes and you will probably be in the office for 90 minutes.
Modern medicine and technology make wisdom tooth removal faster to heal from with less post-surgery discomfort. We always use the latest sterilization and infection control methods.
On the day of your morning or afternoon surgery, only take your prescribed medicines with a small sip of water. Don’t eat or drink anything else. It’s crucial to follow this for at least 6 hours, and longer is even better.
This does not mean you should try to fit in one “last meal” exactly six hours before your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications, including nausea and vomiting. Your procedure will be rescheduled if you have not heeded these guidelines.
When you are seated in the surgical room, we will make every effort to make you as comfortable as possible. If you are going to be sedated, we usually will place an IV in your left arm. This is a quick and nearly painless procedure that ensures optimal delivery of your medication.
Local anesthesia is given to you afterwards to ensure comfort, and allow adequate time to travel home and rest. You will be sleepy for a significant portion of the day.
The Day of Treatment
Be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.
If your surgery requires stitches, these are usually the type that dissolve in 3 to 5 days and do not require removal. You may also notice a sensation of your gums feeling swollen and pulling away from your teeth. This is all part of the normal recovery, and will subside.
Once the local anesthesia wears off, you may require prescription pain medication. First, try pain-relief pills like ibuprofen (Advil®) and/or Tylenol that aren’t narcotics. See if they help with your pain If not, begin your other prescription pain medication.
The local anesthesia may last until the following day, and should not be confused with an injury to your nerve. After surgery, begin your diet with clear liquids such as jello and broths. Gradually introduce solid foods as your body permits.
What Does Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost And Is It Covered By Insurance?
The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. Dr. Platt will examine your x-rays and conduct a physical examination before providing an accurate cost estimate. During your consultation, he will also determine the most suitable anesthesia option.
Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. Dr. Platt’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.
What If I Have Questions Before Surgery?
At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at 219-864-1133 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.
The Day of Treatment
Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.