Wisdom Tooth Extraction Leduc

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth, one in each corner of your jaw. Most people have four, but some may have fewer—or even none. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to come in properly, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, infections, and sometimes damage to nearby teeth.

Why Wisdom Teeth Sometimes Need to Be Removed

Wisdom teeth removal is often necessary when they cause problems or have a high risk of causing problems in the future. Common reasons for removal include:

• Impacted teeth that don’t fully erupt.
• Teeth growing at an angle toward other teeth or the jawbone.
• Pain, swelling, or infection around the wisdom tooth.
• Crowding that could affect the alignment of other teeth.
• Preparation for orthodontic treatments, such as braces.

When Is the Best Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

The ideal timing for wisdom tooth removal depends on your individual situation. Dentists often recommend extraction if x-rays show that the teeth are impacted or likely to cause issues. Many patients first notice their wisdom teeth when they experience pain or swelling in the gums. Age is also a factor, as younger patients typically recover more quickly and have fewer complications. Your dentist will evaluate your x-rays and oral health to determine the best timing for extraction.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Extracted?

Not all wisdom teeth require removal. They may be left in place if they:

• Have fully erupted and are healthy.
• Are properly aligned and bite correctly with opposing teeth.
• Can be easily cleaned and maintained with regular brushing and flossing.

Your dentist will assess each wisdom tooth individually to determine whether extraction is necessary.

Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth may cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Jaw pain or discomfort in the side of the face
• Swelling or redness around the gums
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully
• Headaches or earaches
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Numbness or tingling in the jaw
• Bleeding or tender gums

What to Expect During Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss the type of anesthesia that is right for you, whether local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. The procedure involves gently removing the tooth, which may include cutting the gum or bone if the tooth is impacted. After the extraction, you’ll receive care instructions to manage swelling, discomfort, and healing.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. To support healing, it’s important to:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first 24–48 hours.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Eat soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction site.
• Follow your dentist’s instructions for oral hygiene and medications.
• Avoid smoking or using straws, which can interfere with healing.

Some swelling and mild discomfort are normal, but severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection should be reported to your dentist immediately.

Preventing Problems with Wisdom Teeth

Regular dental check-ups and x-rays are the best ways to monitor wisdom teeth. Early detection of potential issues allows your dentist to plan for removal before problems develop. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, can help reduce the risk of infection around partially erupted wisdom teeth.

Deer Valley Dental is experienced in performing wisdom tooth extractions and is committed to making the procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Call us at (780) 900-2283 to schedule a consultation and find out if wisdom tooth removal is right for you.

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