Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Eagan, MN
Treat impacted molars with a wisdom tooth extraction
Why should your wisdom teeth be removed? When wisdom teeth align properly and the gum tissue is healthy, a wisdom tooth extraction is not necessary. However, this does not generally happen.
Reason for a wisdom tooth extraction
Below are several reasons why the experienced dentists at Now Care Dental recommend wisdom teeth removal for some patients.
Not enough room
The average mouth is designed to hold only 28 teeth. The four wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are additional teeth which are the last to erupt in the mouth. It can be painful when 32 teeth attempt to fit in a space made for just 28, so wisdom tooth removal may be advised.
Improper eruption
Wisdom teeth removal may also be necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.
Impacted teeth
Poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the tooth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection which results in swelling, stiffness, pain and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom tooth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth.
Tumors or cysts
The most serious need for wisdom teeth removal is when tumors or cysts form around impacted wisdom teeth and destroy the jawbone and other healthy teeth. Removal of the impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these issues. Early removal can also avoid future problems and decrease surgical risk involved with the wisdom teeth removal procedure.
Evaluation for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
At Now Care Dental, we will conduct a thorough oral examination of your mouth and take X-rays to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there may be present or future problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for patients.
All outpatient surgery in our clinic is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our dentists have the training, license and experience to provide various types of anesthesia for patients to select the best alternative.
Wisdom tooth removal process
In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia) or general anesthesia. Our skilled dentists will discuss the best option for you and explain the surgical risks, such as sensory nerve damage and sinus complications, before the wisdom tooth extraction procedure is performed.
Once the wisdom teeth are removed, the gum is sutured and you will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, your post-operative kit will include instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics and a follow-up appointment in one week for suture removal.
Wisdom tooth pain relief
It is common to experience wisdom teeth pain for a few days following wisdom teeth surgery. In the first 24 hours, you can place an ice or cold pack on the outside of your mouth to help control pain.
Gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can also reduce swelling and relieve wisdom tooth pain. Just mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Non-prescription pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are also helpful. If severe wisdom teeth pain persists, please contact our office.
Schedule your wisdom teeth removal
To set up an appointment for a wisdom tooth extraction procedure or consultation at Now Care Dental, call our Eagan, MN office at (651) 686-6800. Answering services are available 24/7. Clinic hours are 10am to 8pm, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Call (651) 686-6800 to schedule an appointment or complete our appointment request form.