Wisdom Tooth Extractions -- Lancaster, TX
Relieving Your Pain and Improving Your Oral Health
Nowadays, getting your third molars (also known as your wisdom teeth) removed is typically seen as a rite of passage for many teenagers and young adults, and it’s not hard to see why. Oftentimes, these teeth cause more trouble than they’re worth by contributing to oral health problems that threaten your smile. At Lancaster Family Smiles, Dr. Gupta goes above and beyond to precisely and comfortably remove these often pesky teeth. We look forward to caring for your smile with wisdom tooth extractions in Lancaster, TX. Contact our dental office today to learn more!
Why Choose Lancaster Family Smiles for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Compassionate, Skilled Dentists and Team
- Multiple Sedation Options Available for Your Comfort
- Open Seven Days a Week
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Most people only have enough room in their mouths for 28 teeth. Our ancestors needed the extra four to chew tough meats and other foods, as well as maintain oral function in a time when oral hygiene practices were virtually nonexistent. Thanks to our modern diet of softer foods as well as improved dental health practices, third molars are generally not needed, often leading to problems like infection and headaches. Here are some of the dangers that can develop if your wisdom teeth aren’t removed in a timely manner:
- The wisdom teeth may fail to erupt properly, instead being trapped underneath the gums. This is known as impaction.
- One or more wisdom teeth might not have the space to emerge, which is called a partial eruption. This can lead to a serious infection that may compromise your gums or other teeth.
- If wisdom teeth grow in at an awkward angle, they can push against other teeth. Your bite may become misaligned, and pain and swelling may develop.
How Do I Know When It’s Time to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
While this is far from a definitive list, these are the most common symptoms of wisdom teeth not emerging properly. Contact your dentist in Lancaster if any of the following sound familiar:
- Noticeable swelling in your gums, jaw, or cheeks
- Significant pain in your jaw and toward the back corners of your mouth
- Lingering bad breath or foul taste in your mouth
- Difficulty fully opening your jaw or chewing without discomfort
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process
During an initial examination, we will take x-rays to determine the exact location and state of your wisdom teeth. If extraction would benefit your oral health, we can schedule the procedure. We offer plenty of sedation options to ensure your comfort.
Once your mouth is numb and you’re completely comfortable, we make a small incision in the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth. After removing it, we suture the site to minimize bleeding. You’ll likely experience some swelling and discomfort for the next few days. Carefully follow our post-op instructions, which often include sticking to a soft food diet and giving yourself plenty of time to rest.