Third molars are also known as wisdom teeth. They are usually the last four of 32 teeth to surface in the mouth, at the back of the mouth, some time between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat.
In many cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted in a potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.
Reasons to remove wisdom teeth
Not all wisdom teeth require removal, but once they cause pain, swelling, decay or infection, they need to be removed by a professional, like the staff at Sandstone Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present, and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur.
As with any dental procedure, your oral surgeon will want to initially conduct a thorough examination of the wisdom and surrounding teeth. Panoramic or digital x-rays will be taken in order for your dentist to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if a current problem exists, or the likelihood of any potential future problems.
What does the removal of wisdom teeth involve?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, generally performed under local anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia by a specially trained dentist in an office surgery suite. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be released with post-operative instructions and medication (if necessary), to help manage any swelling or discomfort.