Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often require removal once we enter adulthood. What are wisdom teeth? What dangers do they pose to our smile? Our team can help you preserve the health and beauty of your smile by extracting your third molars before they erupt.
Common Questions About Wisdom Teeth
Question: What are the third molars?
Answer: They are four additional molars that erupt when a patient is in his/her late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth are a holdover from an earlier time when humans needed the additional teeth to break down and consume rough or coarse foods. However, we now no longer need them and their arrival can cause serious oral health issues.
Question: Why do they need to be removed?
Answer: Since our mouths no longer have room for them, the arrival of the teeth can cause impaction if they are unable to fully erupt. Impaction can damage surrounding teeth or even cause an infection. If the teeth are able to erupt then patients may develop misalignment.
Question: What does the extraction process involve?
Answer: First, we will take x-rays and thoroughly examine your mouth to see if extraction is necessary. If so, we will administer anesthetic and gently remove the teeth from your jaw.
Question: Will the procedure be comfortable?
Answer: Yes. In addition to general anesthesia, we also offer oral and IV sedation. With sedation the patient enters a relaxed state and will remain conscious, but have little to no memory of the procedure. We want to make sure our patients with mild to moderate anxiety remain comfortable and calm during their oral surgical procedure. If you have any questions we invite you to contact our office.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR SANTA ROSA ORAL SURGEON
Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).
