Wisdom Teeth

X-rays of the mouth are taken to determine if wisdom teeth require removal.  If the dentist determines it is in your interest to have your wisdom teeth removed, he or she will inject a local anesthetic to numb the space around the teeth.  A general anesthetic or sedative will be provided if necessary.  The wisdom tooth extraction process requires the creation of a minor incision through the gums.  It might also be necessary to remove a small portion of the bone so the tooth can be segmented into smaller pieces for faster and easier removal.  The need for incision depends on whether the tooth has emerged through the gum.

The wisdom tooth removal process requires a widening of the socket holding the tooth.  Such widening is accomplished by shifting the tooth back and forth, loosening it to the point that it can be removed.  The wisdom tooth removal process takes about 45 minutes or less though there is the potential for a lengthier extraction process if the teeth pose complex challenges.  The incision is then healed with dissolving stitches.  Gauze might be positioned over the extraction site to ensure blood clots do not form within the newly-emptied tooth socket.