Wisdom Tooth Removal in St. George, UT

Bringing Pain Relief with Gentle Extractions

Understanding Wisdom Teeth & Related Complications

The third molars, which are commonly called the wisdom teeth, are typically the last teeth to come in. Because they are the last to erupt, there is often not enough room for the wisdom teeth to grow in as they should. When there is not sufficient space for the wisdom teeth, they may become impacted (unable to fully break through the gum tissues and jawbone) or grow in at an incorrect angle. Wisdom teeth that do not erupt as they should can lead to several dental problems, such as:

• Disturbance of the natural tooth alignment or orthodontic treatment
• Damage to the neighboring teeth
• Tooth decay
• Infection and inflammation in the gums and other tissues
• The formation of cysts
• Damage to the jawbone

What To Expect

We know you’re probably anxious about the thought of getting your teeth pulled out. That’s why we like to give you an idea of what you can expect when you’re in our capable hands:

1. Consultation: We’ll start with a consultation to discuss your wisdom teeth and their specific situation. X-rays will likely be taken to determine their position, angle, and any potential complications.

2. Anesthesia Options: During the consultation, we’ll discuss anesthesia options. Local anesthesia numbs the area around the wisdom teeth, while sedation dentistry helps you relax and feel less anxious. We can choose the approach that best suits your needs.

3. The Procedure: Once you’re comfortable, your St. George dentist will carefully make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth. If necessary, a small amount of bone may be removed to allow for easier extraction. The tooth may be sectioned for easier removal and then carefully lifted from its socket. The socket will be cleaned, and stitches are placed to help with healing.

4. Recovery: After the procedure, we’ll provide detailed instructions for post-surgical care, including pain management and proper wound care. Our team will also be available to answer any questions you may have during recovery.

It’s important to remember that this is a general overview. Every case is unique and your dentist will provide specific details about what to expect based on your wisdom teeth and your chosen anesthesia option.

The Road To Recovery

Once the anesthesia wears off, you can expect to feel some discomfort. We will, however, provide you with medication and instructions to manage any pain. At Gentle Dentistry, we also recommend Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy to speed up your healing process. PRF utilizes your own blood to create a concentrated dose of healing factors. This biocompatible solution is injected into the extraction socket after the tooth is removed. PRF can promote faster healing, reduce swelling and pain, and lower the risk of complications like dry socket. During your consultation, we can discuss if PRF is right for you and how it can contribute to a smoother recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs I need my wisdom teeth pulled?

Here are some signs that wisdom teeth removal might be recommended:

• Pain or discomfort: This is the most common sign, especially if the pain is persistent or throbbing.
• Swelling or redness around the gums: This can indicate inflammation or infection.
• Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth: Wisdom teeth can crowd other teeth, affecting your bite and ability to chew comfortably.
• Damage to nearby teeth: Wisdom teeth can put pressure on other teeth, causing them to shift or become damaged.
• Repeated jawaches or headaches: Wisdom teeth can cause pain that radiates to other areas of your head.

If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action.

What is dry socket and how can I avoid it?

Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site dislodges or fails to form properly. This exposes the underlying bone and nerves, leading to discomfort.

Here are some ways to help prevent dry socket:

• Follow post-operative instructions carefully: This includes avoiding smoking, spitting forcefully, and using straws for the first few days after surgery.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Gently brush and floss your teeth as instructed by your dentist to prevent infection.
• Consider PRF therapy: As discussed earlier, PRF utilizes your own blood to create a natural clotting agent that can promote faster healing and reduce the risk of dry socket. We can discuss if PRF is right for you during your consultation.

Is wisdom tooth removal always necessary?

Wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary. Some wisdom teeth erupt normally and cause no problems. However, due to limited jaw space in modern humans, wisdom teeth often erupt partially or become impacted (stuck below the gum line). This can lead to the issues mentioned previously, such as pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.

We will take x-rays and examine your wisdom teeth during your consultation to decide if removal is necessary. We consider factors like the position and angle of the teeth, your overall oral health, and any potential risks associated with leaving them in. We will then discuss the options with you and recommend the best course of action for your individual situation.

Do you have other questions about wisdom tooth removal?

Our friendly and experienced dentists in St. George, UT, are here to help! Contact Gentle Dentistry to schedule a consultation with Dr. Goold or Dr. Evans.