For many of us, having our wisdom teeth removed can be seen as a significant milestone regarding our dental health. It’s estimated that over 80% of people who have wisdom teeth visit a dentist to have them extracted.
There are two types of tooth extractions that you can receive in Evanston: simple and complex. Simple tooth extractions remove teeth that are visible in your mouth. In comparison, complex tooth extractions remove teeth that are not visible.
For more information about tooth extractions near you, get in touch with our dental practice today! Our dentists in NW Calgary will walk you through the process from start to finish so you know exactly what to expect.
Why are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Sometimes referred to as our ‘third molars’, our wisdom teeth can be extracted for a variety of reasons, including:
- You have tooth pain.
- An oral infection around your molars.
- A cyst or abscess has formed.
- You have a tumor.
- Your wisdom teeth are damaging your neighboring teeth, such as grinding or wearing them down.
- Severe tooth decay.
- You have gum disease.
If you’re unsure whether you need to receive a tooth extraction, always be sure to speak with a dentist near you prior to undergoing any type of procedure. If your teeth are mature and have grown into a healthy position that doesn’t interfere with your bite, then you may not need this treatment.
The Process of Receiving a Tooth Extraction
When you come in to receive a tooth extraction, your dentist will first perform a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth. They’ll most likely take a series of x-rays too. This will help your dentist assess the current standing of your oral health and the extent of treatment that is needed. Your teeth may require cleaning, or your gum or bone tissues might need to be cleared away before the extraction is done.
Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic injection to keep you comfortable while they work. For more complex procedures, you may be fully sedated.
A small cut will be made in your gums in order to access your wisdom teeth. The bits of bone and tissue that surround your wisdom teeth will be cleared away. Then, the tooth is gently rocked back and forth before it’s fully extracted using dental forceps. The sight will be heavily cleaned and then sealed with stitches.
It’s important that you follow the instructions given to you by your dentist following your treatment and that you give yourself time to heal.
With all that said, what’s the best age to have your wisdom teeth extracted?
Simply put, there is no ‘best age’. All that matters is that, if your wisdom teeth are causing problems with your oral hygiene, you have them removed as soon as you can. Many people have their teeth extracted between the ages of 18 and 24 but it all depends on when their teeth are fully developed. Additionally, younger people can recover from this extensive surgery more quickly.
Are you looking to receive convenient tooth extraction treatment near you? Sage Hill Dental has got you covered! Our staff is here to answer all your questions and concerns. We’re here to help you fall in love with your smile again. Call or visit our website to book an appointment today!