Impacted Teeth

Third Molar Extractions

The third molars are the last permanent teeth to form and move into the mouth. It will usually emerge at around 16 to 18 years of age and be fully developed by the age of 22 or 23. This was assumed to be the “age of wisdom”, which is where the term “wisdom teeth” originated.

Problems Caused by Impacted Teeth:

Usually by late adolescence or early adulthood these molars attempt to erupt through the gum tissue. But often because of lack of space or malposition of the tooth, its tendons partially or completely become impacted and thus become embedded.

Partially erupted teeth are considered to be impacted. Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth can work its way down to the impacted teeth, frequently causing infection in the gum around the crown of the tooth. Recurrent soreness around the teeth is often mistaken as the pain caused by the tooth’s eruption from the gum. This soreness, however, could be a sign of infection resulting in severe pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and even several illnesses.

The constant pressure from impacted third molars can also damage adjacent teeth. You may not feel anything until significant damage has occurred.

Even if you have no symptoms now, headaches, earaches, pain in the face, neck, throat and upper and lower teeth can occur if impacted teeth are not removed. Cysts can also develop around them. The sac, or growth follicle, that surrounds the developing molars may remain when the teeth are impacted. This sac can fill with fluid and become cystic, destroying bone surrounding adjacent molars. In rare instances, if the cyst is not treated, a tumor may develop and more extensive procedures may be required for removal.

Advantages to Early Extraction

Removing impacted third molars early is usually a less involved procedure than waiting until complications and pain develop. It is best to remove teeth before the roots are fully formed. As you age, the roots will thicken and become more firmly anchored to the jawbone. If you wait until they cause you trouble, chances of risks and complications are higher, and recovery may not proceed as smoothly as when they are removed electively.

All of our extractions are performed under anesthesia that is appropriate for the patient, in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. We utilize state of the art monitoring equipment and anesthesia techniques:

Local anesthesia

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen

Intravenous Sedation

General Anesthesia

State of the Art Monitoring Devices

Continuous EKG Monitoring

Automatic Blood Pressure Device

Continuous Pulse Monitors

Continuous Oxygen Monitors

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