Wisdom Teeth Extraction in West St Paul, MN
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
When it is related to wisdom tooth extraction, it is sensible to take a proactive approach. It will be prudent to have your wisdom teeth extracted as soon as they emerge to prevent overcrowding, infections, or other possible oral health concerns. At Elite Dental LLC in West St. Paul, MN, we perform safe and comfortable wisdom tooth extractions.
Candidates for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, and their arrangement varies from person to person. At the same time, it is normal for the wisdom teeth to erupt between the ages of 16 and 25; in some instances, the wisdom teeth never appear. Sometimes the wisdom teeth can erupt without problems, but in many cases, they cause painful complications that can severely affect your oral health. Impaction occurs when these teeth become overcrowded or erupt at an incorrect angle, resulting in infections, discomfort, or damage to neighboring teeth. These complications necessitate the removal of impacted wisdom teeth.
Preventive Extraction
Our dentist, Dr. Mimi Hoang, may recommend removing the wisdom teeth as a preventive measure. While this may seem unnecessary, preventative removal can offer several benefits like:
- Extraction eliminates the possible risks.
- Wisdom teeth can encourage oral disease even if they present no symptoms.
- People with wisdom teeth are more likely to suffer from cavities and gum disease.
- As with any surgery, wisdom teeth removal can be more problematic for older patients, whereas younger ones are less likely to face surgical complications.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect
At Elite Dental LLC, we first administer local anesthesia to numb the treatment site. This is done to keep you comfortable throughout the surgery. If the tooth is visible above the gum line, it can be gently removed with forceps. First, Dr. Mimi Hoang will make an incision in the gum tissue and remove any bone hampering the wisdom tooth if it is impacted. The wisdom teeth will be broken into sections and removed in pieces. The incisions will be stitched closed, and gauze will be placed to control bleeding and encourage blood clotting.
Wisdom Teeth: Postoperative Care
Most post-surgery problems can be avoided by following all our instructions, including cleaning your mouth efficiently. After wisdom tooth removal, you must refrain from brushing, rinsing, or spitting for about twenty-four hours. During the initial days of recovery, you should not brush around the surgical area and gently wash your mouth with warm salt water once every two hours and after meals. Also, it would be best if you avoided smoking and alcohol for a few days to promote quick recovery.
To learn more about wisdom tooth extractions, visit your dentist in West St Paul, MN at our office, Elite Dental LLC, at 1525 Livingston Ave, Suite B, West St Paul, MN 55118. You can also reach us at (952) 432-1716.