Wisdom Teeth Removal
Oral Examination for Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom Teeth Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of wisdom teeth, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to wisdom teeth are discussed.
With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Jerman can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctor is trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.
Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen. Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until their early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:
Infection:
The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.
Cyst Formation:
Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jaw bone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.
Possible Crowding:
Impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of your teeth. This is most noticeable with the front teeth, primarily the lower front teeth and is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are a number of factors that cause teeth to crowd after braces or in early adulthood. Retained, impacted wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor. Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth:
If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.
What if I don’t have my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager or young adult?
As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. To remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.
What happens on the day wisdom teeth are removed?
Comfortable, Safe, and Personalized Care
Most patients choose to have their wisdom teeth removed with sedation so they can remain comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure. Our goal is to make your experience as easy and stress-free as possible while providing the highest level of safety and care.
Our doctors and surgical team are highly trained and experienced in outpatient anesthesia. We utilize modern monitoring equipment, advanced surgical techniques, and strict safety protocols to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout your procedure.
Our surgical team, office facilities, and anesthesia procedures are regularly reviewed and inspected according to the standards established by the Board of Dental Examiners.
Preparing for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal
To ensure your procedure is performed safely, it is important to follow these preparation instructions:
- Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before your surgery. This includes water, coffee, gum, mints, and candy.
- Prescription medications may be taken with a small sip of water unless otherwise directed by your surgeon.
- A parent, family member, or responsible adult must accompany you to your appointment, drive you home, and stay with you for the remainder of the day.
Having food or liquids in your stomach during anesthesia can increase the risk of complications, including nausea and vomiting. If fasting instructions are not followed, your procedure may need to be rescheduled for your safety.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
Before your procedure begins, our team will review your medical history, answer any questions, and ensure you are comfortable.
If IV sedation is recommended, a small IV will be placed in your arm to safely and effectively deliver your medications. This is a quick procedure that most patients find very comfortable. Once your sedation takes effect, you will be relaxed and unaware of the procedure while our team closely monitors you throughout your surgery.
You will receive medications designed to help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort following your procedure. Because sedation can leave you feeling tired, you should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Thanks to modern surgical techniques and advanced anesthesia, most patients experience a smooth recovery with minimal discomfort. Following your post-operative instructions carefully will help promote proper healing.
What You May Experience
- If stitches are needed, they are typically dissolvable and will naturally fall out within 4–21 days.
- Your gums may feel swollen, tight, or as though they are pulling away from your teeth. This is a normal part of healing and typically improves within several days.
- Local anesthesia may last into the following day. Temporary numbness should not be confused with nerve injury.
Managing Discomfort After Surgery
Once the local anesthesia wears off, some discomfort is expected. We recommend starting with non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil®), unless you have been instructed otherwise or cannot take these medications.
If additional pain control is needed, follow the medication instructions provided by your surgeon.
Eating After Wisdom Teeth Removal
For the first part of your recovery, begin with soft foods and clear liquids such as:
- Water, broth, jell-o
- Eggs, pancakes, soft pastas (macaroni and cheese)
Gradually return to a more normal diet as your comfort level allows. Avoid foods that may irritate the surgical sites until healing has progressed.
Avoid seedy foods such as raspberries, strawberries, kiwi or popcorn for up to 12 weeks
Important Medication Information
If you are prescribed antibiotics and take birth control pills, please be aware that certain antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Speak with your healthcare provider and use additional precautions if recommended.
Our Commitment to Your Recovery
Our team is committed to providing a safe, comfortable experience from consultation through recovery. We will provide detailed post-operative instructions and are always available to answer questions throughout your healing process.
The Day of Treatment
Be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.
What does wisdom tooth removal cost and is it covered by insurance?
The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. The oral surgeon’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.
What if I have questions before surgery?
At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Greater Montana Oral & Dental Implant Surgery Phone Number (406) 752-4375 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.
The Day of Treatment
Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.
