- What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- Am I A Candidate for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
- How Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Performed?
- Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Reviews
- The Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Recovery Following Oral Surgery
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Preserve Your Health and Smile
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
An individual's final four molars that commonly emerge during the late teen years are called wisdom teeth. Found at the furthermost rear point of each side of each arch, wisdom teeth (also referred to as the third molars) frequently don't have enough room to grow in completely, are troublesome to keep clean and healthy, and may require removal to safeguard overall oral wellness. Wisdom teeth can be impacted (stuck in the gum tissues or jawbone), poorly aligned, or unable to emerge as they should, causing a variety of dental disorders. Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery offers wisdom teeth extractions for Germantown, Arlington, Memphis, and surrounding Tennessee communities to enhance dental wellness and safeguard against jaw pain and deterioration. When you or someone in your family has aching or ingrown wisdom teeth, call your nearest location to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sexton, Dr. Weiskopf, or Dr. Russ to learn more about your treatment options.
What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Removing impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can help you avoid a variety of dental issues and ensure long-term well-being. Here are some of the key benefits of wisdom tooth removal:
- Prevents overcrowding and misalignment of other teeth
- Reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Alleviates pain and discomfort caused by impacted teeth
- Avoids the formation of cysts or tumors around the wisdom teeth
- Enhances overall oral hygiene by making it easier to clean your teeth
Am I A Candidate for Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Generally, third molar removals are recommended for young adults who are between the ages of 17 – 25. Not everyone's molars will automatically need extraction, but leaving unhealthy wisdom teeth inside of the mouth can cause further possible dental complications in the future. We may suggest wisdom teeth removal for people who have:
- Totally or partiallyimpacted?third molars beneath the gums or jaw
- Inadequate space for completethird molar emergence
- Overcrowded teeth
- Any development of a lump in the jaw
- Gum bleeding or swelling, mouth swelling, or jaw joint aches
- Damage to the wisdom teeth or patients who have trouble making sure the wisdom teeth are clean
How Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Performed?
Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery carries out third molar removals with the patient under IV anesthesia to improve comfort. The majority of cases of wisdom teeth removal require an excision method, particularly when the teeth are ingrown, have abnormally shaped roots, or are securely anchored to the jaw. Once Dr. Sexton, Dr. Weiskopf, or Dr. Russ creates an incision in the gum tissues to access the impacted tooth, they will often split it into individual pieces, which allows for easier extraction. Often, all of your wisdom teeth would be taken out in one session. Sutures are often used to promote the recovery period. Finally, we utilize the patient's growth factors to promote healing by inserting platelet-rich fibrin into the extraction sites. Our highly talented staff will provide you with post-op guidelines to adhere to during the days following your procedure.
Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Reviews
From my initial consultation to the day of my procedure, everything went well. I had a wisdom tooth extracted and had little to no swelling and the pain was very minimal with 1 Tylenol taken afterwards. The staff was very thorough with explaining everything and also friendly. I especially appreciate Dr. Weiskopf calling me later to check on me, that says a lot! I'm very pleased with the service I received.
From my initial consultation to the day of my procedure, everything went well. I had a wisdom tooth extracted and had little to no swelling, and the pain was very minimal with 1 Tylenol taken afterward. The office staff was very thorough with explaining everything and also friendly. I especially appreciate Dr. Weiskopf for calling me later to check on me. That says a lot! I'm very pleased with the service I received.
I heard about Dr.Sexton through word of mouth, I have personally only heard great praises of him and his staff. I had to do a last minute wisdom teeth extraction. The staff worked with me to get me in and, I appreciate that so much because I know they are so sought after and busy. The surgery when off without a hitch and I was in and out pretty quick with no complications or pain. The assistant I had named Shemiah was great, I was so anxious and she helped me call down by talking to me the whole time to make me feel like I wasn’t alone. Dr.Sexton also has great bedside manner as well. I would recommend them to anyone needing oral surgery. 10/10 doctors and staff.
Dr. Wesikopf and his staff were so informative and helpful through the process of my wisdom teeth removal. Savannah was extremely helpful in regards to talking to me and helping me to relax before the surgery and answering any questions I had. The entire process was extremely quick and Dr. Wesikopf called and checked on me after my surgery. I highly recommend this institution for any Oral surgeries needed!
Got an apicoectomy and wisdom tooth removal. My surgeon was extremely forthcoming and knowledgeable at my consultation. The surgery went smooth and the aftercare was wonderful. Any questions we had both before and after were taken seriously and no matter how small were addressed with patience and care.
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Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
The Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery does wisdom tooth removals while the individual is under regional anesthesia. However, this treatment could also be paired with oral-conscious or IV sedation techniques to ensure full relaxation. Most cases of wisdom teeth removal necessitate an excision approach, particularly if the teeth are ingrown, have arched roots, or are firmly situated in the jaw. Once Dr. Sexton places an incision in the gums to access the molar, He could separate it into parts, which allows for a streamlined extraction. Depending on your unique needs, all four of your wisdom teeth could be removed during one procedure. Sutures can be used to safeguard the removal areas and aid in the healing process. Our highly talented team will provide you with post-operative directions to adhere to for the next few days.
Recovery Following Oral Surgery
Patients who request oral or IV sedation to relax them throughout their procedure will have to bring a trustworthy friend to take them home. During the initial few days following the extraction, it's necessary to avoid spitting, drinking through a straw, consuming high or low-temperature foods and drinks, and fully stop using tobacco and e-cigs. These behaviors can often displace the blood clot at the removal area and result in a condition called "dry socket." It is not abnormal to experience mid-face puffiness and discomfort after third molar removals, which may be helped with prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers and cold packs held to the face. We will provide you with instructions to enable you to take care of your oral health at home and set up a check-in visit to assess your surgical sites while they improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do wisdom teeth often have to be removed?
Wisdom teeth often need to be removed due to their tendency to become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection. As these third molars emerge, there may not be enough space in the jaw for them, leading to misalignment and crowding of nearby teeth. Additionally, their location makes them difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
When are wisdom teeth usually removed?
Wisdom teeth are typically removed in the late teens to early twenties, when they are still developing and before they cause potential complications. Dental professionals may recommend extraction if there are signs of crowding, impaction, or infection. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual dental health and the position of the wisdom teeth.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?
While you can generally get back to school, work, and normal everyday routines after about three to five days for the initial healing, complete healing may take a few weeks. Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and bruising during the first few days, but these symptoms typically improve with rest and proper care. Following the dentist's post-operative instructions can help ensure a smoother and quicker recovery process.
Preserve Your Health and Smile
Stephen Barrett Sexton, D.D.S. is pleased to provide wisdom tooth removals to maintain the future comfort of your family's smiles. This precision oral surgery is commonly done for Memphis, TN adults and teens and might be necessary in the case that natural dental emergence is not likely to occur or further issues are present. To get more details about wisdom tooth removal, schedule a consultation at Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery as soon as you can.