If you’re in your late teens or early twenties, you’ve likely heard about wisdom teeth removal from friends or family. For many, this dental procedure is necessary to maintain long-term oral health. At Guardian Family Dental, Dr. Kyle Crandall specializes in wisdom teeth removal in St. George, ensuring every patient’s smooth and comfortable experience. Dr. Crandall and his team guide you through the process, whether your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or need removal as a preventative measure.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth were once essential for our ancestors, modern diets and advances in dental care have made wisdom teeth less necessary. Many people do not have enough space in their mouths to accommodate these extra molars, leading to a variety of potential dental issues.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth often cause problems because they don’t have enough room to emerge properly. When this occurs, wisdom teeth can become impacted, trapping them beneath the gum line or in an awkward position. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several complications, including:
- Pain and Discomfort: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause significant pain in the back of the mouth, making it difficult to chew or speak comfortably.
- Infection: Because wisdom teeth are located so far back in the mouth, they can be challenging to clean properly. This increases the risk of bacterial buildup, leading to infections, gum disease, and even cysts around the impacted teeth.
- Crowding and Alignment Issues: If wisdom teeth emerge improperly, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding and shifting. This can undo years of orthodontic work or create new alignment problems.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can press against the roots of adjacent teeth, causing damage or even tooth loss if not treated promptly.
Due to these potential complications, dentists often recommend wisdom teeth removal in St. George as a preventative measure, even if no problems are present.
When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The best time to remove wisdom teeth is usually during the late teens or early twenties. The wisdom teeth typically develop at this age, but the roots have not fully formed, making removal easier and recovery faster. Dr. Crandall at Guardian Family Dental will assess the position of your wisdom teeth with X-rays to determine if and when they should be removed.
Some signs that you may need wisdom teeth removal in St. George include:
- Persistent pain or discomfort at the back of the mouth
- Swollen, tender gums around the wisdom teeth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Frequent infections or bad breath
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you must schedule a consultation with Dr. Crandall to evaluate your wisdom teeth and develop a treatment plan.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Dr. Crandall takes a patient-centered approach to wisdom teeth removal at Guardian Family Dental in St. George. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Consultation and Assessment: We begin with a consultation at our St. George office. Dr. Crandall will take X-rays of your mouth to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and discuss the best course of action. If wisdom teeth removal is necessary, he will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have.
- Preparation and Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, Dr. Crandall will ensure you are comfortable before starting the extraction. Depending on your needs, you may receive local anesthesia to numb the area or sedation to help you relax during the procedure. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used if multiple teeth are being removed or if the teeth are severely impacted.
- Removal of Wisdom Teeth: The removal process varies depending on the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the teeth can be extracted whole. In other cases, the teeth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. Dr. Crandall uses precise techniques to ensure the procedure is smooth and painless.
- Post-Procedure Care and Recovery: After your wisdom teeth are removed, you will be given detailed instructions for post-procedure care. This includes managing any swelling, pain, or bleeding and tips for eating and cleaning the extraction site. Most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days, but recovery times vary based on the complexity of the extraction.
Dr. Crandall and the team at Guardian Family Dental will follow up with you after the procedure to ensure you’re healing properly and to address any concerns.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal generally takes a few days. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth recovery:
- Manage Swelling and Pain: Apply ice packs to the outside of your cheeks to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
- Stick to Soft Foods: For the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with saltwater. Avoid brushing the extraction site until it has healed.
- Avoid Straws and Smoking: Using straws or smoking can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the extraction site, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
Most patients can return to regular activities within a week, but following Dr. Crandall’s recovery instructions closely is vital to ensure proper healing.
Why Choose Guardian Family Dental?
At Guardian Family Dental, we prioritize patient comfort and care. Dr. Kyle Crandall has extensive experience with wisdom teeth removal in St. George, and our team is dedicated to making the process as stress-free as possible. Whether you need a simple extraction or more complex care, we are committed to providing a personalized treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcome.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in St. George
If you’re experiencing discomfort or are concerned about your wisdom teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Crandall at Guardian Family Dental today. We’re here to help you maintain oral health and achieve a pain-free, confident smile.
