Wisdom Teeth Removal in Clarksville & Pleasant View, TN

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Evolutionarily, wisdom teeth were necessary for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed extra teeth to grind down plant material. However, modern humans often have smaller jaws, which can lead to various issues with these late-emerging teeth.

Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal is often recommended due to several common issues:

• Impaction: Wisdom teeth may not have enough space to emerge properly, leading to partial or full impaction. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
• Crowding: When wisdom teeth attempt to erupt, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing misalignment and crowding. This can disrupt orthodontic work and affect overall dental alignment.
• Decay and Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean properly, making them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Infections around impacted teeth can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
• Cysts and Tumors: Sometimes, the presence of impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jawbone, potentially causing bone loss and other problems.
• Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can create pockets in the gums where bacteria can accumulate, leading to gum disease and inflammation. Contact us to learn more.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist with experience in surgical extractions. The procedure generally involves several steps:

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

Your journey to wisdom teeth removal starts with a consultation at Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates. During this visit, we will:

• Review Your Medical History: We will assess your overall health, including any medical conditions or medications that might affect the procedure.
• Examine Your Oral Health: A thorough examination, including X-rays, will help us evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth, the extent of impaction, and any potential complications.
• Discuss Treatment Options: We will explain the recommended approach for removing your wisdom teeth and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Preparation for Surgery

Before the surgery, we will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare:

• Anesthesia Options: Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level, we offer local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. We will discuss the best option for you.
• Pre-Surgery Instructions: Follow our guidelines on eating, drinking, and taking medications before the procedure. This may include fasting if you are undergoing sedation or general anesthesia.

The Extraction Procedure

The actual removal of wisdom teeth involves several key steps:

• Anesthesia Administration: We will administer the chosen anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
• Incision and Extraction: For impacted wisdom teeth, an incision will be made in the gum tissue to access the tooth. The tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces to facilitate removal. For non-impacted teeth, the extraction may be more straightforward.
• Suturing: After the tooth is removed, the incision site will be sutured, if necessary, to promote healing and minimize bleeding.
• Post-Operative Instructions: We will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site and manage any discomfort.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pain Management: You may experience some pain and swelling after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications will help manage discomfort.
• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling is a common response to surgery. Applying ice packs to the outside of your face can help reduce swelling.
• Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution to keep the extraction site clean. Avoid brushing directly on the surgical area for the first few days.
• Diet and Hydration: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge blood clots.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for a few days to minimize the risk of complications.

Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up appointments at Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates will help ensure proper healing and address any concerns:

• Post-Operative Checkups: We will monitor your recovery, remove any sutures if necessary, and check for signs of infection or other issues.
• Additional Care: If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications, such as severe pain or prolonged bleeding, contact us immediately for further evaluation.

Who Needs Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Not everyone requires wisdom teeth removal. The decision to extract wisdom teeth is based on several factors:

• Impaction: If the wisdom teeth are impacted and causing pain or other issues, removal is often necessary.
• Orthodontic Considerations: If wisdom teeth are affecting the alignment of your other teeth or interfering with orthodontic treatment, extraction may be recommended.
• Preventive Measure: In some cases, wisdom teeth are removed as a preventive measure to avoid future complications, even if they are not currently causing problems.
• Symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, or infection related to your wisdom teeth, removal may be advised.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth removal is a common and often necessary procedure to prevent or address various dental issues. At Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates, PLLC, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and efficient as possible.

If you suspect that you may need wisdom teeth removal or have any questions about the procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We will evaluate your situation, discuss your options, and provide the guidance you need to achieve optimal oral health.

Ready to enhance your smile with expert care? At Cumberland Surgical Arts and Associates, we offer top-notch oral surgery services at three convenient locations. Visit our Rudolphtown Rd Suite office at 2285 Rudolphtown Rd Suite 200, Clarksville, TN 37043, or our Parkway office at 1275 Parkway Pl, Clarksville, TN 37042, or our Pleasant View office at 2524 TN-49E, Pleasant View, TN 37146. (931) 552-3292 or send a fax at 931-552-3243 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you!