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Wisdom Teeth Removal Downey, CATooth extraction is a common dental procedure, with millions of extractions performed annually. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), nearly 20 million extractions are carried out annually in the U.S. This figure covers various scenarios, including damaged or decayed teeth, aging teeth, wisdom tooth extractions, and orthodontic reasons. At Downey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we leverage extensive expertise and innovative equipment to enhance your oral health and ease pain and discomfort. Need your wisdom teeth removed? Call our expert team at 562-923-7257 or schedule your consultation online today! Schedule a Consultation What Are Wisdom Teeth?Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to appear during adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 16 and 25. Wisdom teeth served a functional purpose in our ancestors, whose diets included more challenging foods, often causing tooth loss. However, with changes in diet and jaw size over time, many people need more space for the third molars to emerge fully from the gum line. This causes impacted wisdom teeth and the subsequent complications, including pain, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, and cyst formation. Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?The main reason to consider wisdom teeth removal is impaction.Impacted wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly and become trapped beneath the gum line or against other teeth. This impaction can cause pain, infection, and damage surrounding teeth and bone. In addition, wisdom teeth usually grow at awkward angles, causing crowding or shifting of surrounding teeth. It is advisable to address the problem early, mitigating bite problems and potential misalignment. Even when wisdom teeth emerge fully, they can be challenging to clean because of their location, increasing the risk of decay, gum disease, and cavities. Wisdom teeth removal can prevent these complications, ensuring optimal oral health. The Wisdom Tooth Extraction ProcessWhen you schedule a wisdom tooth extraction procedure, knowing what to expect can provide peace of mind. By understanding each step of the procedure and following our oral surgeon’s recommendations, you can confidently undergo wisdom tooth extraction and achieve optimal oral health. Preparing for the ExtractionBefore the teeth removal, our surgeons will thoroughly examine your mouth, including X-rays, to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and any potential complications. The findings of this evaluation will provide helpful insight into your viability, risks, and concerns. We may advise you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, leading up to the extraction to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure.  Local Anesthesia and Sedation OptionsAfter a comprehensive evaluation, wisdom tooth extraction can be performed under local anesthesia. This helps to numb the extraction site and surrounding tissues, ensuring you do not feel pain during the procedure. Dental specialists sometimes offer sedation options to help you relax and feel more comfortable. This can range from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to intravenous (IV) sedation for more profound relaxation or even general anesthesia for patients with extreme anxiety or complex extraction needs. Our surgeons will discuss these sedation options with you to determine the most suitable approach based on your needs and preferences. The Extraction ProcessOnce the affected area is numb or sedated, the extraction process begins. Our surgeons will use specialized instruments to loosen the wisdom tooth from its socket in the jawbone and carefully remove it. Sometimes, impacted wisdom teeth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier extraction. Our dental professionals ensure comfort and safety by monitoring vital signs and adjusting anesthesia levels. Post-Extraction Care and RecoveryAfter the wisdom tooth extraction, we will provide personalized instructions for post-extraction care to promote optimal healing and minimize discomfort. This may include applying ice packs to reduce swelling, taking prescribed pain medications, and avoiding certain foods and activities that could interfere with healing. It is essential to follow these instructions closely and keep up with follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Wisdom teeth removal in DowneyWhile the decision to undergo wisdom tooth extraction may seem stressful, our experts at Downey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can ensure it alleviates pain, prevents future dental problems, and promotes overall oral health. Schedule a consultation at 562-923-7257 for professional guidance throughout the process to ensure a successful recovery and a more comfortable smile. |
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