Wisdom Teeth Extractions Q&A

What are wisdom teeth extractions?

Wisdom teeth extraction is a type of oral surgery used to remove the last molars in your upper and lower tooth arches. Usually, wisdom teeth don't emerge until age 16-20, and in some cases, they never erupt at all. 

If your wisdom teeth cause problems or if their eruption threatens your other teeth, you may need wisdom teeth extractions. 

What problems can wisdom teeth cause?

Because you already have a full mouth of teeth when wisdom teeth erupt, there's not always adequate room for these teeth in your jaw. 

That lack of space can lead to wisdom teeth impaction, in which the wisdom teeth get stuck inside your jaw. Or, your wisdom teeth may erupt at an odd angle because they don't have the space to emerge properly.

Whether impacted or partially erupted, your wisdom teeth can potentially cause a cascade of oral health issues including: 

• Discomfort
• Tooth crowding
• Tooth misalignment
• Tooth decay
• Jaw damage
• Gum tissue infections
• Cysts

Wisdom teeth extractions can prevent all of these complications and help you maintain a healthy smile. 

How do I know if I need wisdom teeth extractions?

Arizona Dental Heights providers carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, and jaw during regular checkups. They use a state-of-the-art cone beam 3D X-ray system to see your wisdom teeth, even if they're still hidden under your gums. 

The advanced approach allows the dental specialists to accurately predict the trajectory of your wisdom teeth as they grow in, thereby identifying potential issues and preventing them through wisdom teeth extraction. 

The number of extractions you need depends on a few factors, including: 

• Positions of the wisdom teeth
• Whether you have symptoms related to your wisdom teeth
• How the wisdom teeth affect other teeth in your mouth
• How much room you have for the teeth to grow in 

You may just need one or two extractions, but many people get all four wisdom teeth extracted at the same time to avoid a possible second oral surgery in the future. 

Are wisdom teeth extractions painful?

Arizona Dental Heights goes to great lengths to make wisdom teeth extractions and other oral surgeries comfortable, so you can expect minimal discomfort during your procedure. They offer the most advanced numbing and sedation dentistry techniques.  

Schedule your wisdom teeth extraction consultation by calling Arizona Dental Heights or clicking on the online appointment maker.