Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge during the late teenage years or early adulthood. While some wisdom teeth come in without issues, others experience complications due to lack of space or improper alignment. At San Jose Smile Center Dr Howard Defaii, wisdom teeth extractions are a standard dental procedure to resolve these problems and prevent potential oral health complications.   

The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure  

Before the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon will perform a thorough examination, often including X-rays, to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and identify potential complications. Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area around the wisdom teeth to ensure a painless procedure. The dentist will carefully remove the wisdom tooth from its socket. If the tooth is impacted, a small incision in the gum tissue may be required to access the tooth beneath. After the extraction, dissolvable stitches may be used to close the incision if necessary.  

After the wisdom teeth extraction, patients can expect discomfort and swelling in the days following the procedure. It is normal to experience mild pain and tenderness in the jaw, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by the dentist.  

The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extractions  

Preventing Dental Misalignment  

One of the most common reasons for wisdom teeth extraction is that the jaw often has insufficient space to accommodate these extra molars. As a result, the emerging wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the adjacent teeth, causing them to shift and become misaligned. This can lead to crowding, crookedness, and even bite problems. By removing the wisdom teeth early, before they fully erupt, the chances of dental misalignment are significantly reduced, preserving the alignment and aesthetic appearance of the existing teeth.  

Reducing Jaw Pain and Discomfort  

When wisdom teeth emerge, they can significantly trigger jaw pain and discomfort if they are impacted or attempting to grow in an incorrect direction. This discomfort can extend to the ear, head, and neck, causing headaches and tension in the surrounding muscles. Wisdom teeth extraction can alleviate these painful symptoms, enhancing overall comfort and quality of life.  

Enhanced Oral Hygiene and Maintenance  

Wisdom teeth are positioned at the back of the mouth, making cleaning challenging. Their location makes brushing and flossing difficult, accumulating food debris and plaque buildup. As a result, individuals with wisdom teeth may be at a higher risk of developing cavities and gum disease. By opting for wisdom teeth extraction, oral hygiene becomes more manageable as the need to navigate around these molars is eliminated.  

Wisdom teeth extractions are a routine dental procedure to prevent potential oral health complications and relieve discomfort associated with impacted wisdom teeth. For the best dental care, visit San Jose Smile Center Dr. Howard Defaii at 827 Blossom Hill Rd suite e-3, San Jose, CA 95123, or call (408) 227-5012.