Wisdom Teeth Extractions Lancaster
Relief From Wisdom Tooth Pain
Around the age of 18, the average adult has 32 teeth. Unfortunately, for many people, the upper and lower jaws are not large enough to allow for passive eruption of all these teeth in the mouth. The last teeth to develop are the third molars (wisdom teeth). When they align properly and are easily cleansable, they may not need to be removed. Oftentimes, these teeth develop at abnormal angles, only partially erupt through the gums, cause crowding or damage to neighboring teeth, or develop pathology later in life.
Why Choose Conestoga Oral Surgery for Wisdom Teeth Extractions?
- Happy to See All Ages of Patients for Wisdom Teeth Consultations and Extractions
- Hundreds of Thousands of Wisdom Teeth Successfully Removed Since 1985
- Doctor on Call 24/7 for Any Post Operative Emergency Needs
Both medical and dental research provide clear evidence of the benefits of early wisdom teeth removal. In fact, patients older than 25 years of age have a much higher risk of developing periodontal disease or cavities at the third molar sites. These diseases cause deep pocketing at the site where bacteria thrive. This is not only bad for your oral health, but over time, can lead to increased levels of systemic inflammation which contributes to serious medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease.
Wisdom tooth extractions are a common rite of passage for many teenagers and young adults. To start these key moments of life on the right foot, our team at Conestoga Oral Surgery offers wisdom tooth extractions at our oral surgery offices in Lancaster, Lititz, and Hershey. Call our office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether your third molars need to be extracted.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Our doctors can help you determine the need for removal by obtaining diagnostic images using advanced technology, like our panorex or cone beam CT scanner, and completing a thorough clinical examination. During your consultation, risks and benefits will be discussed to assist you in making a well-informed decision. We want you to enjoy a healthy and happy smile for as long as possible, and in some cases, to make that happen, impacted or malposed wisdom teeth should be removed.
It’s estimated that over 50% of Americans will have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. This issue often necessitates removal because when left in place, the tooth can lead to a higher risk of infections, damage and decay to surrounding teeth, pathology development, and orthodontic issues. Our oral surgeons have removed hundreds of thousands of wisdom teeth since we first opened in 1985, so rest assured that you will receive expert care alongside our outstanding and comfortable service.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
Due to the variability of tooth positions, wisdom teeth are categorized in various ways (erupted, buried under soft tissue, completely impacted, etc.). This categorization often results in differing levels of recovery, such as swelling, pain, and bleeding. The surgical process will be discussed in greater detail at your consultation. In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia and general anesthesia. This increases patient cooperation and decreases overall anxiety during the procedure. You will recover in our office until you are ready to be taken home by your escort to begin the healing process.
After the Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
Patients will be provided with extra gauze and given both written and verbal post-operative instructions for additional guidance as they leave the office. These instructions can also be downloaded in PDF format from our website for your convenience. Should you lose them, here are some general recommendations to help you make a fast recovery:
- Change out the gauze pad over your extraction site every 30 minutes and bite with firm pressure until the bleeding has dissipated or slowed to a manageable ooze.
- Reduce swelling and pain by placing ice packs on your cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
- Avoid rinsing for the first 24 - 48 hours, then transition to lukewarm saltwater rinses to clear the mouth of food debris. Sometimes your surgeon will prescribe a medicated mouthrinse that should be used in lieu of the saltwater rinses.
- Eat a soft, non-chew diet during the first week as your mouth is healing.
- Keep up with brushing and flossing during the healing period to prevent increased bacteria in the mouth.