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Fayetteville Wisdom Tooth Removal

Extraction of Third Molars 

Most people grow a third set of molars between the ages of 17 and 25. Typically they are removed because the average jaw can only accommodate 28 teeth, not 32. They can also cause a variety of oral and dental health problems without sufficient room for them to emerge, such as overcrowding, gum and bone infections, the development of cysts, and even tumors around infected teeth. Fortunately, wisdom teeth extraction is a straightforward procedure for a trained oral surgeon. At Half Moon Oral Maxillofacial and Implant Surgery, our board-certified oral maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) are here to protect your oral health through both simple and complex wisdom teeth extractions, including the removal of multiple impacted wisdom teeth. 

Contact us at (479) 364-6889 to schedule a wisdom tooth consultation with our Fayetteville oral surgeon. 

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed? 

While many are under the impression that if their wisdom teeth don’t cause any pain then they don’t have to worry about them, that doesn’t necessarily mean these teeth won’t cause problems later. According to a study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, wisdom teeth that do erupt are the most prone to cavities and gum disease. If your wisdom teeth have completely erupted and are functional, painless, cavity-free, and in a hygienic environment with healthy gum tissue, they may not require extraction, yet they do still require regular dental hygiene appointments and monitoring by a dentist.

In general, dental professionals agree that wisdom teeth should always be removed if you have: 

  • Infections or gum disease
  • Cavities that cannot be restored
  • Cysts, tumors, or other pathologies
  • Damage to neighboring teeth

What Is the Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal? 

Before your wisdom teeth removal surgery, you will need to meet with one of our oral surgeons for a consultation to assess your current oral health and determine what steps need to be taken and choose which type of outpatient anesthesia will be used. On the day of your wisdom teeth removal, IV sedation and/or local or general anesthesia will be administered so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Your oral surgeon will extract any erupted wisdom teeth with forceps in a simple extraction. For “impacted” wisdom teeth (those that have not erupted), your surgeon will make an incision in your gum tissue to access the tooth before removing it. Large wisdom teeth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to remove them. Next, the gums will be sutured around the tooth sockets. 

When you wake up, you will rest comfortably until your sedation and/or anesthesia wears off. You must have a responsible adult drive you home afterward. You must keep your extraction site clean and adhere to your oral surgeon’s follow-up instructions for aftercare, and we will provide thorough guidelines so you are fully informed of what to expect in advance. You will be sent home with prescription medicines to prevent infection and to alleviate any post-op pain, and we will follow up with you the day after your surgery to ensure you are healing well. 

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removing your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can offer several benefits:

  • Prevention of Pain and Discomfort: Wisdom teeth often don't have enough space to emerge properly, leading to impaction or misalignment. This can result in pain, discomfort, and even infection. Removing them can prevent these issues.
  • Prevent Dental Crowding: Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, causing crowding or shifting. Removing them can help maintain the alignment of your other teeth.
  • Prevent Gum Inflammation and Infections: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to gum inflammation (pericoronitis) and infections. Removing them reduces this risk.
  • Prevent Cyst Formation: In rare cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, causing damage to the surrounding bone and tissues. Removal prevents cyst development.
  • Oral Health Improvement: Wisdom tooth removal contributes to better overall oral health by reducing the risk of decay, gum disease, and associated complications.
  • Avoid Future Problems: Even if your wisdom teeth aren't currently causing issues, they can potentially lead to problems in the future. Removing them proactively can prevent these future complications.
  • Reduced Risk of Jaw Pain: Wisdom teeth can put pressure on the jawbone, leading to discomfort or pain. Removal can alleviate these symptoms.
  • Easier Oral Hygiene: Wisdom teeth, especially if they're impacted or located at the back of the mouth, can be challenging to clean properly. Their removal makes oral hygiene easier and more effective.
  • Prevent Headaches: In some cases, wisdom teeth issues can contribute to headaches and jaw pain. Extraction can alleviate these symptoms.

It's essential to consult with a  our Fayetteville oral surgeon to determine whether wisdom tooth removal is necessary in your specific case. We will assess your oral health and provide guidance on the best course of action to maintain your dental well-being. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need all four wisdom teeth removed?

Not everyone requires all four wisdom teeth removed. X-rays or a CT scan will help the surgeon determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth.  Healthy and properly positioned wisdom teeth may not necessarily need removal. However, impacted wisdom teeth that are causing pain, damage to surrounding teeth, or other complications typically require extraction.

What are the signs I need my wisdom teeth removed?

Common signs include pain, swelling, jaw discomfort, difficulty chewing, or gum redness around the wisdom teeth.

Will wisdom tooth removal hurt?

You won't feel pain during the procedure due to the chosen anesthesia.  Post-surgery discomfort is manageable with medication.

How long does wisdom tooth removal take?

The procedure itself typically takes 30-60 minutes, but the entire appointment can last up to 2 hours.

How long will it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?

Full recovery takes several weeks, with the first 3-5 days being the most crucial for healing.

To schedule a Fayetteville wisdom tooth removal consultation, call Half Moon Oral and Maxillofacial Implant Surgery at (479) 364-6889 or contact us online by filling out our simple online contact form now.