Wisdom Teeth Removal
Remove Third Molars Comfortably
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop in the mouth. Some people develop all four of them, while others develop more than four, less than four, or none at all. These molars are unnecessary for proper oral function, and many dentists and oral surgeons recommend having them extracted. At Full Smile Dental, we offer safe and comfortable wisdom teeth removal in Dumas, Canyon, Amarillo, Farwell, and Dalhart, TX.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are an additional set of molars that your mouth does not need to function. You already have molars responsible for chewing food. Additionally, the average mouth does not have enough room to accommodate an extra set of molars. By having them removed, you avoid the risk of these issues and can give your teeth the room they need to function.
When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to erupt into the dental arch, they push against other teeth. This can be painful, and some wisdom teeth end up growing sideways. Others fully or partially erupt through the gum line, while an impacted wisdom tooth is trapped beneath the gums. These teeth are difficult to clean around, which can cause infection and chronic bad breath.
Leaving them in your mouth can lead to a host of oral health complications, such as:
- Impaction
- Infections, which can cause tooth decay or gum disease
- Cysts and tumors
- Dental overcrowding
- Damage to roots, tissues, and facial nerves
- Dental misalignment
- Pain and swelling
When you have wisdom teeth removed by the oral health experts at Full Smile Dental, you eliminate the risk of these issues occuring as a result of third molars.
Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it may be time to get your wisdom teeth removed by an oral surgeon:
- Difficulty fully opening the mouth
- Ongoing bad breath
- Visibly seeing a wisdom tooth poking through the gums behind your second molars
- Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
- Red or swollen gums
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
When these symptoms emerge, it is likely time to have third molars extracted. It is important to remember that not all wisdom teeth cause symptoms. You may have wisdom teeth that do not cause pain or unpleasant symptoms, but these teeth should still be extracted before future problems arise. When you attend regular dental appointments with your general dentist, he or she will take X-rays of your teeth. If wisdom teeth are detected, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon to have them extracted.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
At Full Smile Dental, we make the wisdom tooth removal process easy and straightforward. You will come and meet with one of our oral surgeons, who will take 3D scans of your teeth and create a treatment plan. We will discuss your options for anesthesia and determine the right choice for your level of comfort. Most patients undergo IV sedation for this procedure. You will schedule a day to return for your wisdom teeth removal surgery.
On the day of your surgery, we will administer the selected method of anesthesia or sedation. If a wisdom tooth has erupted through the gums, your surgeon will remove it using forceps. For impacted wisdom teeth, your surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access and remove the tooth. Dissolvable sutures will be placed as necessary and you will rest in our office until the anesthesia wears off.
You must arrange for a responsible adult to remain in the office during your surgery and drive you home afterward. This person should remain with you for 24 hours and assist you while you are still under the effects of anesthesia.
How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost?
The cost of having your third molars extracted will vary. We take several factors into consideration, such as how many wisdom teeth you have, the complexity of the surgery, your choice of anesthesia, and your dental insurance. During your first visit, we will discuss these items with you and provide a cost estimate.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Dumas, Canyon, Amarillo, Farwell, and Dalhart, TX
Full Smile Dental provides exceptional dental and oral surgery care to patients of all ages. Our team of general and cosmetic dentists, pediatric dentists, and oral surgeons are committed to going beyond the standard of care for every patient. Each of our offices are equipped with advanced technology and accept many forms of payment and financing to make your oral health treatment more affordable. Wisdom teeth should be removed as soon as possible to protect your oral health. Avoid having pain, pressure, infections, and more by having wisdom teeth removed at Full Smile Dental.
Frequently Asked Questions: Wisdom Teeth Removal
How Long Does it Take to Recover From Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It will take about 2 weeks for your surgical sites to heal. You can expect to return to your normal routine within a day or two following surgery. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by your surgeon regarding activity level.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?
It generally takes about one hour to extract four wisdom teeth. This can vary depending on how many of the wisdom teeth are impacted.
When Can I Eat Normally After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your surgeon will provide you with guidelines on when to resume a normal diet. Typically, you should stick to a soft food diet for several days to a week, ramping up your diet as tolerated. Avoid crunchy or sticky foods that could damage your surgical sites. Once your surgical sites have healed, you can resume your normal diet.
How Long Does Swelling Last After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Swelling will typically peak around the third day after surgery and will gradually decrease. You can manage swelling with ice packs and by keeping your head elevated with pillows when resting.
Experience the Full Smile Difference
Receive thoughtful oral surgery and dental care in a modern and comfortable setting. Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert team ensure every experience is made exceptional. We look forward to serving you and your loved ones.