Wisdom Teeth Removal in Clinton
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to develop, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Most people have four—one in each corner of the mouth. Because many jaws are too small to accommodate them, these teeth often fail to emerge properly, leading to pain, crowding, or impaction.
What Is an Impacted Tooth?
An impacted wisdom tooth cannot fully erupt due to limited space in the jaw. This prevents it from taking its proper position for chewing and cleaning. When teeth remain trapped beneath the gum or bone, they can cause a range of oral health issues.
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Types of Impaction
During your consultation, a panoramic X-ray (panorex) helps determine whether your wisdom teeth are impacted and how complex removal may be.
- Soft Tissue Impaction: The tooth has partially emerged but remains covered by gum tissue, making cleaning difficult.
- Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth is partly trapped in the jawbone and cannot function properly for chewing.
- Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth remains fully embedded in the jawbone and may be positioned irregularly, requiring a more advanced surgical approach.
Oral Examination and Evaluation
Dr. Anderson uses oral exams and X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and predict potential problems. Research shows that early evaluation, often during the mid-teen years, leads to better outcomes. Most patients are referred to us by their dentist, orthodontist, or family doctor for this assessment.
All procedures are performed in our office under local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or general anesthesia, depending on your needs. Our surgical team is highly trained and licensed in all forms of anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the process.
What to Expect After Extraction
Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed under local or general anesthesia. Before surgery, Dr. Anderson will explain anesthesia options and discuss potential risks such as nerve irritation or sinus issues.
After extraction, the gums are sutured, and you will rest briefly in the office before going home. You’ll receive a postoperative kit containing care instructions, prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics, and an appointment for suture removal in about a week.
If you have any questions after your procedure, you can contact Anderson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Anderson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Phone Number 865-622-4959.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
When there isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to fully emerge, several complications may develop. Removing impacted teeth early can prevent long-term problems. After age 30, complications tend to occur more frequently and can be harder to treat.
Common issues linked to impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Infection: The most frequent problem is pericoronitis, a localized gum infection. When a tooth only partially
erupts, bacteria can accumulate under the gum flap, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing or swallowing. - Cyst Formation: Fluid-filled cysts may form around impacted teeth, slowly expanding and damaging nearby bone or teeth. In rare cases, tumors can develop if the teeth are left untreated.
- Crowding: Impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to shifting or crowding, especially of the lower front teeth. This is a common concern for patients who have previously had orthodontic treatment.
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth: When space is limited, the neighboring molar can suffer from decay, bone loss, or gum disease due to difficulty cleaning around the area.
Wisdom Teeth Frequently Asked Questions
How will I feel after wisdom teeth surgery?
On the first day after wisdom teeth removal, you may have mild bleeding, pain, and swelling. Cover your pillow to protect it from blood. Swelling usually peaks on day two and begins to go down by day three. Using ice throughout the first day can help reduce swelling. Even if it feels uncomfortable, keep applying ice. By day three, your jaw may feel stiff and hard to open; applying moist heat on days two and three can help relax your muscles. Rest and limit activities for a few days, following your post-op instructions carefully. Most people start feeling better and on the road to recovery within 3 to 5 days.
Are there any problems after the extraction of wisdom teeth?
As with any medical procedure, there can be complications or unexpected outcomes. Some complications patients undergoing wisdom tooth extraction may experience include damage to the sensory nerves in the lips and tongue, infection, dry socket, or sinus issues. We will explain these in detail at your consultation.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
On the day of surgery and for the first 24 hours, you are on a liquid diet; after that, you can move to soft foods for several days (mashed potatoes, hummus, yogurt, pudding, smoothies, etc.). During the second week, you can begin adding firmer foods. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few weeks.
Why go to an oral surgeon for wisdom teeth removal?
While some dentists remove wisdom teeth, they do the procedure only occasionally. Dr. Anderson specializes in wisdom teeth removal and performs the procedure daily, relying on his years of experience and skill. He has had years of additional training in surgical techniques and anesthesia beyond dental school.
Will my insurance cover wisdom tooth removal?
If your wisdom teeth are impacted or removal is considered medically necessary, most insurance plans will cover the procedure. Having wisdom teeth removed proactively may or may not be covered, in part or in full, depending on your policy and coverage limits. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider to determine how much of your surgery is covered.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or crowding, or if your dentist has recommended evaluation, contact Anderson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Clinton, TN at Anderson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Phone Number 865-622-4959. Early assessment and treatment can help protect your teeth and prevent serious complications with wisdom teeth later in life.