Wisdom Tooth Extraction By An Experienced Bozeman Oral Surgeon
Typically making their appearance in the late teen years or your early twenties, wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars a person will get in their lifetime. When properly aligned and surrounded by the right amount of space so as to not disrupt the dental structure, wisdom teeth can be left alone.
More often than not, however, the emergence of the wisdom teeth introduces issues to the mouth, such as pain and overcrowding, that can be solved by easily removing the unnecessary molars.
At Gallatin Valley Surgical Arts, our doctors are well-versed in the extraction of wisdom teeth and are ready to provide you with the highest level of quality care, from your consultation to your recovery.
Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
It’s a misconception that everyone should have their wisdom teeth removed. But in many cases, our mouths are healthier and happier when they are. If your wisdom teeth come in and you don’t experience any issues with them, you’re in luck! But if oral issues arrive along with your last set of molars, you should consult your dentist or an oral surgeon.
Common issues that arise with the arrival of wisdom teeth include:
- Pain.
- Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth.
- Overcrowding of teeth that cause misalignment.
- Overcrowding of teeth that cause damage to other teeth.
- Overcrowding of teeth that make cleaning difficult.
- Repeated infections or cysts.
- Gum disease and receding gums.
- Tooth decay and tooth loss.
- Root and bone damage.
- Tumors.
Wisdom teeth aren’t really needed—and their removal can help eliminate or prevent the above issues without causing any harm.
Some dentists recommend that teens get their wisdom teeth extracted before they cause trouble, and before the teeth are deeply rooted. Removing teeth early can mean a simpler operation, a less painful experience, and shorter recovery time.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: The Procedure
Before the procedure, the surgeon will examine your wisdom teeth, answer any questions, and discuss options for anesthesia and sedation with you. You will likely require x-rays or need to send x-rays from your dentist to your oral surgeon. Together, you’ll come up with a plan for the surgery.
During the surgery, you will first be numbed and/or sedated. Then, your surgeon will expose the impacted teeth, remove them, and clean and bandage the area of removal. Sedation is another consideration as your dentist may have limited sedation options. We have board certified Anesthesiologist’s who tailor each individual patients needs for individual, customized care and safety.
Fully recovery from the surgery takes about a week. For the first day, you will need to eat liquid or soft foods. For the first week, you will need to be mindful of the empty sockets where your teeth were and look for any signs of possible infection while continuing to eat only soft foods. You may take over-the-counter medication for discomfort or pain. Let your doctor know about any signs or symptoms of complications.
Recovery from wisdom tooth extraction is a few days to a week. Most people miss a day or two of school following the procedure.
Should A Dentist Or Oral Surgeon Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
When should you have your dentist pull your wisdom teeth, and when should you seek a referral to an oral surgeon to do the tooth extraction?
The answer depends on several factors related both to the state of your wisdom teeth and to the experience and resources of your dentist. But generally, dentists can pull fully erupted wisdom teeth that don’t have complications. Oral surgeons are the better choice for partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth, or wisdom teeth that are causing overcrowding, simply based on their experience cutting into gums and performing work on patient’s mouths and jaws.
Sedation is another consideration. Your dentist may have limited sedation options, while your oral surgeon likely has a larger range and more experience.
In most cases, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon when he or she recommends you get your wisdom teeth extracted. If not, you can call an oral surgeon for a consultation or second opinion.
Are Wisdom Tooth Extractions Covered By Health Insurance?
Insurance policies are all different, and you should closely read about your coverage, or call your insurance company before your procedure. However, most dental insurance plans and some general health insurance plans at least partially cover wisdom tooth removal. Talk to your doctor and your health insurance company to learn more.
The expense of wisdom tooth removal depends upon how many teeth you need removed, whether they are impacted or partially erupted, and what kind of sedation you choose. You will receive a cost estimate before your procedure.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Sedation Options
Your plan for sedation or anesthesia during your wisdom teeth extraction will be a decision you make with your doctor. However, it will likely fall into one of the following categories:
- Local anesthesia
- IV sedation
- General anesthesia
- Oral Sedation
Local anesthesia is an option for the simplest extractions. It is the least expensive and also involves less recovery time. However, the patient remains fully conscious and aware during the extraction.
The next option, IV sedation, is the most common. This puts the patient in an unconscious state but is not as involved as general anesthesia. You will not remember the procedure or feel pain.
General anesthesia is used for patients who have a more complex extraction that could take longer or involve other procedures.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction At Gallatin Valley Surgical Arts
Be confident that your wisdom teeth are being extracted by an experienced oral surgeon in Bozeman who will treat you with consideration and care. To learn more about a wisdom tooth extraction plan that works for you, contact our team today for a consultation.