Are you experiencing a persistent pain toward the back of your jaw? If so, then it might be your wisdom teeth. These are usually the last set of teeth to come in, and often, they become impacted or stuck. This can cause the aforementioned pain, teeth crowding, and they can even develop an infection that reaches all the way down to the jawbone. The team at Infinity Dental Care is happy and able to remove your troublesome third molars right here in our Hillsboro dental office. Give us a call today to learn more.
Why Choose Infinity Dental Care for Wisdom Teeth Extractions?
Sedation Available for Any Kind of Procedure
Friendly, Dedicated Dental Team
In-Network with Most PPO Dental Insurance
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the back of the mouth. They usually develop when a person is in their teen years. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth, though some individuals have more than four or fewer.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed. However, extracting them is necessary in many cases because they have the potential to cause serious oral health problems. For example, they may push against the other teeth and interfere with your bite alignment. They can also develop cysts and infections. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food around them and be at a high risk of decay. Problems with wisdom teeth can be very painful, and the only way to ensure that you can avoid such issues is by choosing to get them taken out.
What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
If your wisdom teeth have fully erupted from the gumline, the extraction procedure should be pretty straightforward. We will use an elevator to lift each tooth from its socket, and then we will grip it with forceps in order to finish extracting it.
If your teeth are impacted (stuck beneath the gumline), the procedure may be more complex. We may need to create some incisions in your gumline or break a tooth into pieces.
Regardless of which type of extraction you undergo, we will do all we can to make sure you are comfortable during your appointment.
Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Here are some tips to help you enjoy a smooth recovery after your wisdom tooth removal procedure:
Get plenty of rest. You may experience soreness, mild bleeding, and swelling for several days. Rest can allow your body to recover efficiently.
Keep your mouth clean. Do not directly brush your extraction sites.
Take precautions to avoid dry socket. For example, you should avoid drinking through a straw, abstain from cigarettes, and stay away from hard and crunchy foods.
Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Extracting your wisdom teeth now can help you save money in the future by avoiding complications. However, it’s understandable to be concerned about the cost of your treatment. During your consultation with us, we will thoroughly discuss the financial aspects of your treatment and your payment options. In the meantime, here are some things for you to take into consideration.
Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
The cost of wisdom tooth extractions varies based on several different factors. We will discuss them during your consultation. Here are the most prominent ones that will affect the cost of your treatment:
Number of Teeth: Some people don’t develop all four wisdom teeth. In some other cases, not all of them need to be extracted. We will carefully examine your smile to determine what the best course of action is for you.
Impaction: If your wisdom teeth are impacted, the procedure becomes more complex. This will ultimately increase the cost of your treatment.
Sedation: If you opt for sedation options, these will incur their own cost.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
The majority of dental insurance providers will cover at least part of the cost of your wisdom tooth extraction. However, this will also largely depend on whether you’ve met your deductible or your maximum for the year. The best way to learn about your specific benefits is to contact your insurance provider directly. We can also help you to understand what your plan covers. At Infinity Dental Care, we are proud to accept most PPO insurance plans, and we are happy to file on your behalf!
To find out the exact cost of your treatment, schedule a consultation with us. We are eager to help you achieve a healthier smile!
Wisdom Tooth Extractions FAQs
Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Painful?
Perhaps one of the most asked questions about wisdom tooth extractions is, “Does it hurt?” To ensure that you don’t feel any pain or discomfort during the treatment process, Dr. Kalluri will numb your mouth. Then, she will carefully work to remove your third set of molars, checking in with you every step of the way to ensure you are still comfortable. Once she’s done tending to the extraction site, she will send you on your way with aftercare instructions designed to keep you comfortable through the healing period too.
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
Actually, no! In fact, the Dental Research Journal reported that somewhere between 5% and 37% of people are missing at least one of their wisdom teeth. Usually, this is the result of genetics, which means that if your parents or grandparents didn’t have all of theirs, you might not either.
How Should I Prepare for My Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Previously, we discussed what to do after your wisdom tooth extraction. But is there anything you should do prior? The answer is “yes!” First, arrange for someone you trust to drive you home from your appointment and, if possible, stay with you that night. Second, buy everything you need for the recovery period – from gauze and soft foods to over-the-counter pain medication. Third, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Instead, eat healthy, well-balanced meals leading up to your procedure and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
How Do You Sleep After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
During the recovery period, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, soreness, and sensitivity. To prevent those sensations from interfering with your sleep, we recommend taking OTC pain medication as directed on the label and using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time. It’s also a good idea to prop yourself up on a few pillows so your head stays elevated, and, in turn, blood doesn’t rush to your head throughout the night.
How Soon Can I Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Oftentimes, patients aren’t too hungry following their procedure. If you are, then wait at least an hour or two to eat. That way, the gauze stays in place and the numbing agent wears off. Make sure that you stick to extremely soft foods, like applesauce, plain yogurt, and broth, and always check the temperature with your lips beforehand to ensure you don’t irritate the extraction site.
Note: As you heal, you’ll be able to eat a more varied diet. If you’re ever unsure whether you’re allowed to eat something or not, you can always contact our Hillsboro dental team.
When Can I Use a Straw After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
In an effort to avoid a dry socket (which can be quite painful and prolong the recovery period), patients are given a very specific set of instructions on what they can and can’t do. Drinking through a straw is in the “can’t” column, along with spitting, smoking, and drinking alcohol.
