Our third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, typically come in around our teens or early twenties. It’s common to extract them, whether or not they’re causing you trouble, due to their potential impact on your smile. However, the question is, do you have to have them removed? The team at Berks Oral Surgery in Reading, PA is here today to discuss more about this common procedure.
Common Reasons For Extraction
Your dentist does their best to keep your smile healthy, and in some cases, this requires removing a severely damaged tooth or a tooth that could potentially damage your other teeth. One of the most common reasons your dentist may recommend extracting a tooth is if it has become impacted, meaning it is unable to fully erupt and could cause discomfort. They may also be removed to avoid damage to your other teeth in the future or as part of your orthodontic treatment.
What To Expect During Your Surgery
Any type of more invasive dental treatment can feel anxiety-inducing for a patient. Our team is here to make the process as comfortable as possible for you. Before treatment, you will have a consultation with us, where your dentist and team may discuss what to do before treatment, what to expect the day of, and how to ensure proper healing. The procedure takes about an hour, and you should have a trusted friend or family member drive you. For the next few days after your procedure, be sure to carefully follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid dry socket. If you have any questions about when your last meal should be before surgery, what to wear, or have concerns following your procedure, you can always reach out to our team.
Sedation Keeps You Comfortable
You may have a lot of questions regarding your oral surgery. How long do treatment and recovery take? Will you be comfortable during your procedure? The removal takes around an hour or so, and the recovery period may take around two weeks. During your procedure, we will use intravenous anesthesia to keep you comfortable. With this type of anesthesia, you will feel relaxed and in a sleep-like state for your comfort and ease of anxiety. If you have any questions about your anesthesia options before the surgery, you can discuss these with our team.
Learn More About Your Oral Surgery Options
In some cases, you may not need to have your wisdom teeth removed. However, it is often recommended to extract them before they cause serious harm to your smile. If it’s time to have them taken out, contact your team at Berks Oral Surgery in Reading, PA, today at 610-374-4093.