The arrival of wisdom teeth (your third molars) is a milestone that usually happens in your late teens or early twenties. However, because our modern jaws are often too small to accommodate them, these teeth frequently become "impacted" or grow in at an angle.
If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, crowding your other teeth, or are difficult to clean, an extraction is the best way to protect your oral health.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out?
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but they are often extracted to prevent:
Infection: Partially erupted teeth create a pocket where bacteria thrive.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Impacted teeth can push against your second molars, causing damage or misalignment.
Cysts: In rare cases, fluid-filled sacs can form around impacted teeth, damaging the jawbone and nerves.
What to Expect During the Procedure
At Crown Dental Group, we prioritize your comfort. We use modern local anesthetics and sedation options to ensure you don't feel a thing during the procedure. Most extractions are straightforward and are completed right here in our National City office.
3 Tips for a Fast Recovery
Your comfort after the surgery depends heavily on following your post-op instructions:
Protect the Clot: Do not smoke, use a straw, or spit forcefully for at least 48 hours. This prevents "dry socket," a painful condition where the protective blood clot is dislodged.
Manage Swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in 20-minute intervals for the first 24 hours.
Stick to Soft Foods: Enjoy smoothies, yogurt, pudding, and lukewarm soups. Avoid crunchy or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site.
If you're feeling pressure or pain in the back of your jaw, don't wait for an infection to start. Call Crown Dental Group today to schedule a wisdom tooth evaluation.
