TREATMENTS · DR. JEFFREY MA D.D.S.
wisdom teeth removal
Wisdom teeth removal can help to prevent future oral health problems, and is typically done at a young age. At any age, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your dentist.
What are wisdom teeth and why remove them?
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that typically develop and come in around the age of 16-25.
Like the human appendix or tailbone, they are a vestigial structure, an evolutionary remnant that was once useful for our ancestors with larger skulls and jaws to fit more teeth.
Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth typically do not come in properly, develop anomalously with a low percentage of cyst formation, and can be simply hard to reach and clean, causing cavities or gum disease which affects overall health.
How do you know your wisdom teeth need to be removed?
This is a question best answered after a comprehensive examination with the dentist, who will take into consideration how your wisdom teeth are developing, and other factors that could influence your decision.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth need to be removed even when there is no pain or discomfort.
It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits before arriving at a decision with your dentist.
When the risk factors for removing them are high, wisdom teeth may be left in place.
When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
It is best to have your wisdom teeth removed when you are as healthy as possible.
When you are healthy, you are more likely to heal quickly.
This means that — for most people — having your wisdom teeth removed at a younger age and when there are not other medical concerns reduces risk and speeds recovery.
How are wisdom teeth removed?
First, we review the removal procedure, its risks and benefits, alternative options, and obtain your informed consent.
If necessary for severely anxious patients, we provide free oral conscious sedation.
We numb the area with local anaesthetics, and test the area to make sure you are as comfortable as possible before we proceed.
For an idea of the extraction process, you can watch the wisdom teeth removal video (specifically for impacted wisdom teeth).
Afterwards, we ensure you are able to care for the area so it heals nicely. The second video includes care instructions for tooth extraction, including wisdom teeth.
VIDEO: REMOVAL OF IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH
VIDEO: EXTRACTION CARE INSTRUCTIONS