Wisdom Teeth Removal in Hermitage, TN

Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery usually performed when patients are in their teens or early twenties.

If your dentist has recommended wisdom teeth removal for you or your teen, it is to relieve pain and infection due to an impacted wisdom tooth or to prevent future problems with wisdom teeth that are common as individuals age.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

The wisdom teeth are the third and final molars that erupt in the back of the mouth.

Because they generally develop when you are older and (supposedly) wiser, they gained the name “wisdom teeth”.

The wisdom teeth are not necessary for eating or drinking and often do not fit properly in the mouth, leading to the need for removal.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

The timing for wisdom teeth removal depends on various factors. Your dentist and our oral surgeons evaluate each patient based on:

• Age
• Tooth position
• Potential complications

Although wisdom teeth usually erupt during the late teens or early adulthood, they can be removed at any age.

The surgery can be performed in our office under:

• Local anesthesia
• Conscious (IV) sedation
• General anesthesia

Depending on your health, the complexity of the procedure, and personal preference, Dr. Yazbak or Dr. Mills makes a small incision in the gums, removes a portion of bone to access the tooth, and extracts the wisdom tooth or teeth. Stitches may be needed to close the incision. Wisdom teeth removal usually takes 1-3 hours, depending on how many are extracted and the complexity of the surgery.

Post-Op Care

Following wisdom teeth removal, you will experience some swelling and discomfort. The pain is manageable with:

• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Ice packs to minimize swelling and bruising

You must eat a soft diet for a few days, avoiding the extraction sites when chewing. Rinsing gently with warm salt water and avoiding the incision when brushing your teeth will help prevent infection and soothe the area.

Do not attend school or work for the first two days following wisdom teeth removal. Relaxing on the couch and elevating your head will help minimize discomfort and aid healing. Avoid doing anything strenuous. Keep your head elevated on a few extra pillows when sleeping. Please drink lots of fluids (but do not use a straw, as the suction could cause problems) and avoid spicy or hot foods.

The recovery period varies but generally takes about one week. Swelling and discomfort should subside gradually, and patients can usually resume normal activities within a few days to a week. We recommend returning to normal activities slowly rather than all at once. Full recovery, including complete gum tissue healing, may take several weeks to a few months.

Dr. Yazbak and Dr. Mills: Wisdom Teeth Extraction Experts in Hermitage, TN

If your dentist in Hermitage, TN has referred you to our practice for wisdom teeth removal, they are confident we can provide you with the care and expertise needed. While a general dentist can perform a simple wisdom tooth extraction, there are often situations when an oral surgeon is the best choice.

We have undergone years of specialized training beyond dental school as oral surgeons. We have the knowledge and skills to perform even the most complex oral surgery procedures safely and effectively. This training includes:

• Administering various forms of anesthesia and sedation for our patients’ comfort and safety

Because we perform procedures such as wisdom teeth removal regularly, we can quickly respond to unforeseen complications. Some patients may have:

• Wisdom teeth with longer roots
• Issues with jawbone structure

Making the extraction more difficult. We have worked with patients with complex problems for years and have honed our skills in precision wisdom teeth removal using minimally invasive techniques.

If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are emerging or are experiencing symptoms such as:

• Painful jaw
• Throbbing toothache
• Swollen gums at the back of the mouth
• Other signs of an impacted wisdom tooth

It is essential to have your wisdom teeth evaluated as soon as possible. Please get in touch with our office in Hermitage, TN at your earliest convenience to schedule an appointment by calling Hermitage Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Phone Number (615) 883-0067.