Wisdom Teeth Removal in Daly City, San Francisco & Bay Area

 

Understanding Wisdom Teeth

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final set of molars that develop in the back of your mouth, behind your second molars. They typically emerge between your late teenage years and early twenties—a time historically linked with gaining maturity and wisdom.

Why Are Removing Wisdom Teeth Important?

These teeth can cause problems if there isn’t enough space in your jaw for them to grow properly. If they are unable to fully emerge or align correctly, they can lead to complications such as infections, damage to adjacent teeth, or misalignment.

Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When there isn’t enough space for wisdom teeth to emerge properly, they are classified as impacted. Impacted teeth can cause various issues and are categorized into the following types:

 

Soft Tissue Impaction:

  • Description: The wisdom tooth is partially covered by gum tissue. There isn’t enough room for the gum to retract, making it difficult to clean the tooth effectively.
  • Implications: This can lead to infections and gum disease
 Wisdom Teeth Diagram
 

Partial Bony Impaction:

  • Description: The tooth partially erupts through the gum but remains obstructed by bone. It may not function correctly in chewing and poses cleaning challenges.
  • Implications: May require removal to prevent further complications.
 Wisdom Teeth Diagram
 

Complete Bony Impaction:

  • Description: The tooth is fully encased in the jawbone and cannot emerge at all. This type of impaction makes removal more complex due to the depth and positioning of the tooth.
  • Implications: Often necessitates surgical intervention and more intricate procedures.
 Wisdom Teeth Diagram

Consultation and Diagnosis

To determine whether wisdom teeth need to be removed, a thorough examination is required. During your consultation, a panorex x-ray will be performed to:

  • Assess if your wisdom teeth are impacted.
  • Evaluate if there is sufficient space for the teeth to emerge.
  • Determine the complexity of the removal procedure.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL:

How do I know if my recovery is going well?

Signs of a normal recovery include:

  • Gradual reduction in pain and swelling
  • Improved ability to open your mouth and chew
  • Absence of severe symptoms like excessive bleeding or severe pain

When should I contact my oral surgeon after surgery?

Contact your dentist if you experience:

  • Severe pain or swelling that doesn’t improve with medication
  • Signs of infection (fever, increasing redness, or discharge)
  • Prolonged bleeding or unusual symptoms

What are the costs associated with wisdom teeth removal?

The cost varies based on factors such as the complexity of the extraction, type of anesthesia used, and whether the procedure is covered by insurance. It’s best to discuss the cost and payment options with your dental office beforehand.

Will insurance cover the cost of wisdom teeth removal?

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of wisdom teeth removal, but coverage can vary. Check with your insurance provider and dental office to understand what is covered under your plan.

Can I use dental sedation or general anesthesia for the procedure?

Yes, options for anesthesia include local anesthesia (numbing the area), sedation (to help you relax), or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep). Discuss your preferences and any concerns with your oral surgeon.

How can I prepare for the wisdom teeth removal procedure?

  • Pre-Operative Instructions: Follow any guidelines provided by your dental office, including fasting if you’re receiving sedation or general anesthesia.
  • Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home if you are receiving sedation or general anesthesia.

These questions and answers cover the most common concerns patients have about wisdom teeth removal, helping you better understand the process and prepare for the procedure.

Need More Information?

For a deeper understanding of wisdom teeth and their management, view our multimedia presentation or download additional resources:

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Archstone Oral and Facial Surgery Office Phone Number (415) 963-4121 Request An Appointment

Wisdom Teeth Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of wisdom teeth, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to wisdom teeth are discussed.

Wisdom Teeth Presentation

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