WISDOM TEETH
IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when the tooth fails to erupt properly and to break through the surface of the jawbone and gum. As a result, a wisdom tooth can cause significant pain and discomfort because it may grow sideways or horizontally.
The impaction can happen in the jawbone or the soft tissue of the gums, leading to the crowding of other teeth.
A wisdom tooth that is only partially erupted can also cause complications such as:
- Infections,
- gum disease,
- or tooth decay.
Dentists generally recommend the removal of wisdom teeth when symptoms of impaction begin to present.
Most people get their wisdom teeth, or third molars, between the ages of 16 and 25.
WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL
Dr. Reshad, our implantologist, will remove your affected tooth in our dental office. However, if multiple extractions are required or if complications are expected, he may refer you to an oral surgeon.
In extreme cases, you may have your surgery in a hospital.
The procedure consists of three different steps:
- Applying a local anesthetic to numb the area and prevent the patient from feeling any pain during the procedure. For complex extractions, we will use general anesthesia. Under general anesthesia, you will be completely unconscious.
- Once the chosen anesthetic has taken effect, we will make an incision in the gum line. We will then remove any bone covering the area of extraction and then the tooth.
- After removing your tooth, we will stitch close your gums. We will also give you a prescription for painkillers, and we may put you on antibiotics to help prevent infection.
DECADES OF EXPERIENCE IN NEW YORK CITY
Dr. Reshad has more than 27 years of practice in dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and gums dentistry. He has all the skills necessary for optimal and durable results.
SUTTON PLACE DENTAL ASSOCIATES ON THE WEB
RECOVERING FROM WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION
You will feel some pain and discomfort after the removal of your wisdom teeth.
Here is what we advise:
- You should take pain medication according to instructions.
- You can minimize swelling by applying ice packs to the cheek for 30 minutes at a time.
- Bleeding is to be expected for the first 24 hours after surgery. However, you can minimize bleeding by biting down on clean gauze pads to promote clotting.
- Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco for at least 24 hours.
- Brush carefully and avoid touching the affected area.
- Using a straw will be forbidden for the first few days, as the suction can cause blood clots to dislodge.
- You should follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding food and drink.
COMPLICATIONS AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL
Complications after removing your wisdom teeth are extremely rare.
You should call your dentist or doctor immediately if:
- bleeding does not stop after 24 hours or is profuse,
- if the pain becomes unbearable,
- in the cases of extreme swelling,
- or sudden fever.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY IN MIDTOWN EAST MANHATTAN
Dr. Reshad has 27 years of experience with wisdom teeth removal. Entrust him with your oral care.
Schedule an appointment with us. We welcome patients from all boroughs of New York City and beyond.