Tooth Extraction and Wisdom Teeth Removal

There are several reasons why you may need your wisdom teeth removed or tooth extraction. Sometimes a tooth is simply too decayed to save. If bone deterioration from periodontal disease (gum disease) occurs, the result can be tooth extraction. Other reasons include fractures or cracks in the root of the tooth, lack of room for teeth (orthodontic reasons), or lack of finances to pay for more expensive restorative options.

Do I Need to See an Oral Surgeon?

Frequently we are asked if you will need to see an oral surgeon after the procedure of if you will be put to sleep for the removal.

Dr. Booth does 95% of his own surgery (extractions and implant placements) right in the office, but will sometimes refer the most complex or risky cases to a specialist.

Dr. Booth offers various sedation dentistry methods and they are always an option but not generally necessary. The patient’s choice to do some type of sedation can be made after discussing the risks and benefits with Dr. Booth.

When is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?

Wisdom teeth, sometimes called third molars, generally erupt anywhere from ages 17 to 25. Most people do not have room for the wisdom teeth so they don’t often come in correctly. Wisdom teeth are also difficult to take care of because they are so far back.

For young patients, even if there isn’t any complications from the wisdom teeth, it is often recommended to have them removed while the patient is young and healthy. This of course should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Some reasons older adult patients may need to have their wisdom teeth out is because of infection, decay, random pain, damage to a second molar, swelling, chewing on tissue, and other orthodontic or restorative issues.

photo credit: eatingsnowflakes via photopin cc