Wisdom Tooth Extraction – Ocala

In prehistoric times, our ancestors depended on their wisdom teeth. However, people today don’t require them to maintain a fully functional smile. They can actually cause more harm than good. That’s why it’s often recommended that patients get their wisdom teeth removed before they cause significant damage to the surrounding areas. At Weldon Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry of Ocala, we can extract your wisdom teeth if deemed necessary. To learn more about how this works or to schedule a consultation, give us a call!

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

The wisdom teeth are the third molars and the last adult teeth to erupt in the mouth. Most people develop 4 wisdom teeth – two on top and two on the bottom. Anthropologists believe that wisdom teeth were once helpful for our prehistoric ancestors who needed additional chewing power to consume rough plants, seeds, nuts, and foliage that made up their diets. It also wasn’t uncommon for teeth to fall out for one reason or another, so the wisdom teeth could step in and act as replacement teeth in those situations.

In modern times, we have a softer diet filled with carbohydrates and high-calorie foods, as well as a deep focus on dental care, so wisdom teeth aren’t usually needed. Some people don’t develop wisdom teeth at all, while others may have one, two, or three. The need for them to be extracted varies on a case-by-case basis.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

In many cases, wisdom teeth need to be extracted because they pose serious oral health threats. Numerous issues can occur if wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to develop properly. They include overcrowding, oral hygiene issues, discomfort, impaction, increased risk of cysts, and possible damage to the surrounding teeth. Here are some signs that could indicate that you need your wisdom teeth extracted:

• Pain while eating
• Jaw stiffness
• Facial swelling
• Bad breath
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Repetitive infections

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

If your wisdom teeth have already erupted from the gave, we will use dental forceps and an elevator to extract them. If they have not erupted, an incision needs to be made into the gums to expose the tooth and bone. Any bone that blocks access to the tooth will need to be removed. In some cases, a tooth may need to be removed in pieces. Afterward, the site of the extraction will be cleared of any debris and stitches may be used to close the wound if needed. Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and help blood clots from forming and begin the natural healing process.

Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After your procedure, it is common to experience bleeding, swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but this should subside over the next few days. During this time, it is especially crucial to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine. This includes rinsing and brushing gently while avoiding the extraction site. You should also stick to a soft-food diet and refrain from smoking or using straws. Remember to take all proscribed and over-the-counter medications as directed. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call so we can help.