A recognizable benchmark of adolescence is the development of wisdom teeth. These are the final set of molars to emerge, but there is often not enough room in the jaw to accommodate these teeth. Many people have their wisdom teeth removed to prevent crowding, infection, pain, and other complications. Scheduling a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Keystone OMS is an important step in monitoring the development of wisdom teeth and determining whether extraction is necessary to optimize oral health. Our maxillofacial surgeon provides wisdom teeth removal for people in Hermitage and other Pennsylvania and Ohio communities.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that emerge at the very back of your jaw, typically during the teens or early 20s. However, most adults’ jaws are too small to comfortably fit an additional four teeth, and this can cause teeth to become impacted. It is often recommended that wisdom teeth be removed sooner rather than later because as the teeth mature, the roots become longer, and the bone around them hardens, making extraction more difficult.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Getting your wisdom teeth removed can help prevent future complications and preserve the comfort, function, and aesthetics of your smile. The molars may grow at an angle, get trapped beneath the gums, or fail to fully break through the gums if there is not enough room in your jaw for them, which can cause pain or lead to infection. They may also cause crowding or damage to other teeth as they fight for space, and this can interfere with the proper alignment of your teeth.
Recovery and Aftercare
It is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and soreness following wisdom teeth removal, but the actual procedure is performed using sedation to prevent any discomfort. The empty sockets will be packed with gauze, and you can bite down firmly on that to stop any bleeding. Applying ice packs to your cheeks and taking pain relievers can help alleviate pain as well. Dr. Clemenza will send you home with post-operative instructions and prescriptions for antibiotics.
You will want to eat very soft foods that require little to no chewing for the first few days after surgery, such as mashed potatoes, applesauce, and soup, but avoid drinking from a straw or consuming carbonated beverages and smoking. You can slowly return to your normal diet after about a week as tolerable.
You’re in Good Hands with Us
Dr. Clemenza has performed countless wisdom teeth removal procedures to help patients maintain a healthy, comfortable smile. He can evaluate your wisdom teeth to determine if extraction is a good option for you to prevent potential problems later. Contact Keystone OMS’ Hermitage office online or at (724) 981-8884 to schedule an appointment.
