Wisdom teeth removal in Southaven, MS, can help relieve pain, prevent infection and protect your other teeth when wisdom teeth are impacted, damaged or causing problems. Dr. M. A. Bleibel has completed more than 1,000 wisdom tooth extractions, bringing extensive oral surgery experience to patients who need their third molars removed.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Explained
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Many people do not have enough room in their jaws for wisdom teeth to erupt properly. When a wisdom tooth is trapped beneath the gums or angled against the neighboring tooth, it is called an impacted wisdom tooth.
Wisdom teeth removal involves extracting one or more of these third molars to prevent or treat problems such as pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, cysts or gum disease. The procedure may be recommended even when symptoms are not yet present if the teeth are positioned in a way that is likely to cause future complications.
Dr. Bleibel has completed more than 1,000 wisdom tooth extractions, bringing extensive oral surgery experience to patients who need wisdom teeth removed.
How Wisdom Teeth Removal Can Help You
Wisdom teeth removal may help:
- Relieve pain and pressure caused by erupting or impacted wisdom teeth.
- Prevent crowding and bite changes that can affect the alignment of other teeth.
- Reduce the risk of gum infection, tooth decay and cyst formation around impacted teeth.
- Protect the second molars from damage, decay and bone loss caused by impacted wisdom teeth.
- Make routine cleaning easier by removing teeth that are difficult to reach and maintain.
- Address recurring infections or symptoms that have not responded to other treatment.
Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth and explain whether removal is recommended based on their position, condition and any problems they may be causing.
How Wisdom Teeth Removal Works
Treatment begins with an examination and diagnostic imaging to evaluate the position, roots and surrounding structures of the wisdom teeth.
- Examination And Imaging: Digital X-rays or cone beam 3D imaging may be used to evaluate the wisdom teeth, root shape and proximity to important structures.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. Additional sedation options may be available depending on the complexity of the case and your comfort needs.
- Tooth Removal: For erupted wisdom teeth, removal may be straightforward. For impacted teeth, a small incision in the gum may be necessary, and the tooth may be sectioned to allow for safe removal.
- Site Care: The extraction sites are cleaned, and stitches may be placed if needed. Gauze is used to help control initial bleeding.
- Aftercare Instructions: You receive written instructions for pain control, swelling management, diet and activity during the healing period.
Most wisdom teeth removal appointments take 45 to 90 minutes depending on the number of teeth being removed and the complexity of the case.
What To Expect Before And After Surgery
Before your appointment, let our team know about your medical history, medications and any health conditions that may affect treatment or healing. If sedation is planned, follow the fasting instructions provided and arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery.
After wisdom teeth removal, some bleeding, swelling and soreness are normal. Swelling typically peaks around 48 to 72 hours after surgery and then begins to improve. Most patients return to work or school within two to three days, with complete healing of the extraction sites occurring over several weeks.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dental team to support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery And Aftercare
Proper aftercare helps protect the extraction sites and supports healing.
- Keep gauze in place as directed to help manage initial bleeding.
- Apply cold packs to the outside of your face in 10 to 20 minute intervals during the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, eggs and mashed potatoes for the first several days.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid using straws for at least one week.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after the first 24 hours to help keep the extraction sites clean.
- Avoid smoking and vigorous exercise during the early healing period.
- Take any prescribed or recommended medications as instructed.
Contact the office if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding that does not stop, fever, pus, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or swelling that worsens after the first few days.
FAQs About Wisdom Teeth Removal
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