Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are typically the last set of permanent teeth to erupt, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. While some individuals may not experience any issues with their wisdom teeth, it is common for these molars to cause dental complications. Because the mouth often does not have adequate space to accommodate these additional teeth, wisdom teeth may erupt improperly or become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or jawbone. Problems like this may lead our dentists to recommend wisdom teeth extractions in Oviedo, Florida, in order to protect your oral health and smile.
Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
When wisdom teeth do not grow in correctly, they can create a wide range of oral health concerns. Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth may push against adjacent teeth, potentially disrupting alignment and undoing the results of orthodontic treatment. These teeth are also more difficult to clean, making them susceptible to decay and gum infections. In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to further damage to the surrounding bone and tissues.
Removing wisdom teeth can help prevent these complications before they occur. Even if your wisdom teeth are not currently causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend extraction based on X-rays or other diagnostic tools that show future risks to your oral health. Early removal is often advised to avoid more complex procedures later in life.
What to Expect During the Procedure
If our dentists and team recommend wisdom teeth removal, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your oral health. The procedure itself is commonly performed in-office under local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and your level of comfort. Our dentists will gently open the gum tissue and, if necessary, remove the bone covering the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After the extraction, you will receive detailed instructions to support a smooth and speedy recovery. These may include applying ice packs to reduce swelling, eating soft foods and taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients recover within a few days, although complete healing may take a couple of weeks.
A Proactive Step for a Healthy Smile
Wisdom teeth removal in Oviedo, Florida, is a proactive step to preserve the alignment, comfort and health of your smile. Dr. Angel Lopez and associates are committed to making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you are experiencing discomfort in the back of your mouth or have been advised to evaluate your wisdom teeth, we invite you to contact Your Oviedo Dentist at 407-901-5138 and schedule an appointment. We are here to help you maintain excellent oral health at every stage of life.