Extractions
If you have a tooth that unfortunately cannot be saved, we can extract it for you and discuss your treatment options for replacement. Please visit our "Implants", "Bridges", and "Dentures" pages for more information about replacing missing teeth. A small number of extractions may have to be referred to an oral surgeon, either due to anatomical difficulty or patient desire to be fully sedated. We do offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) sedation for any procedure in our office.
Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars)
Most of the time wisdom teeth need to be extracted for the following reasons:
1. There is simply not enough room for them.
2. If they stay unerupted (impacted) cysts may form around them.
3. If they partially erupt, periodontal (soft tissue) abscesses are common. These come and go and have to be treated with antibiotics and oral rinses. When the tissue swells, many times the opposing teeth bite into the swollen tissue, further exacerbating the painful condition.
4. If they partially erupt, deep periodontal pockets and/or cavities may develop between the wisdom tooth and the healthy second molar tooth.
5. If they fully erupt it may be too difficult to keep them clean, requiring restorations such as fillings or crowns.
There is the rare instance in which an individual has enough room for the wisdom teeth and is able to keep them and the surrounding tissue healthy.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
A general answer is in the mid to late teens or early twenties. Many times at this age the bone is not as dense as it will be later and also the roots of the wisdom teeth may only partially be formed, leading to an easier extraction.