Wisdom Teeth Removal in Upland, CA

Removing Third Molars

Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, are the final set of adult teeth to form, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 21. Due to the limited space in most adult mouths, these teeth frequently lead to complications. Therefore, dentists and oral surgeons often advise the extraction of wisdom teeth. Removing these teeth before they fully emerge can help prevent a range of oral health problems, such as damage to nearby teeth, gum inflammation, infections, cysts, tumors, and overcrowding of teeth.

Dr. Gilbert, our board-certified oral surgeon, has a wealth of experience in extracting wisdom teeth. Along with his friendly and knowledgeable team, Inland Institute Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is committed to delivering outstanding care to their patients. We invite you to contact us in Upland, CA, to arrange a consultation.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Several factors, including the size and location of the wisdom teeth, influence the decision to extract them. Some individuals may not experience any issues with their wisdom teeth; however, most cases require removal. The early to mid-teen years are often ideal for this procedure, as younger patients typically recover more quickly, and less developed third molars are easier to extract. Nonetheless, wisdom teeth can be removed at any age, including in adults in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.

During your routine dental checkups, your dentist will monitor the growth and development of your wisdom teeth and can refer you to an oral surgeon when removal is deemed necessary. If you experience any signs or symptoms related to wisdom teeth between appointments, we recommend reaching out to us for a consultation.

Sign & Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth

Certain symptoms may indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction. Here are some common signs:

• Pain and Discomfort: Experiencing pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth is a frequent symptom of wisdom teeth issues. The pain, which can be sharp and intermittent or constant and throbbing, may extend to the jaw, ear, and neck.
• Swollen and Tender Gums: Swollen and tender gums are another indication that wisdom teeth are erupting or impacted. Inflammation around the affected area can make brushing and flossing difficult.
• Difficulty Opening Your Mouth: Overcrowding or misalignment caused by wisdom teeth may lead to difficulty in fully opening the mouth. This can cause discomfort and affect eating and speaking abilities.
• Sinus Problems: Pressure on the sinuses from wisdom teeth located in the upper jaw can result in sinus pain, congestion, and headaches. These symptoms can sometimes be confused with a sinus infection, making it crucial to seek an oral surgeon’s diagnosis.
• Bad Breath: Partial eruption or impaction of wisdom teeth can create pockets that harbor bacteria. This can cause persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, even with thorough oral hygiene.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery

When visiting our practice, your initial step will involve a consultation with Dr. Gilbert. This session includes an assessment of your oral health, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of your symptoms. Any questions you have will also be addressed during this time.

On the surgery day, anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort. The type of anesthesia will have been chosen during your consultation. IV sedation is often utilized for wisdom tooth extraction, leaving patients in a sleep-like state with minimal memory of the procedure. This sedation can cause patients to drift in and out of sleep, resulting in limited recall of the procedure.

For wisdom teeth that have erupted, forceps will be used for extraction in a relatively quick procedure. However, if the teeth are impacted or below the gums, an incision in the gum tissue will be necessary to access and remove the tooth. Afterward, sutures will be placed to aid proper healing.

Post-surgery, you will receive detailed recovery instructions to ensure smooth healing. This guidance includes how to care for the surgical sites, take prescribed pain medication, and prevent dry socket, a painful condition where the blood clot in the socket is dislodged.

Recovery times vary, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days. While some discomfort is expected post-procedure, it can be managed with ice packs, rest, and pain medication as prescribed by your oral surgeon.