Wisdom Tooth Removal

Top 5 Things to Know About Wisdom Teeth

Your wisdom teeth, or your third molars, are the last of your teeth to erupt, often emerging in your late teens or early twenties. These teeth are also the most likely teeth to suffer complications and, as a result, need to be removed. Dr. Falk and Dr. Krieger here at Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery are happy to offer their expertise in tooth removal to their patients.

Why remove wisdom teeth?

For most people, the mouth is not large enough to accommodate emerging wisdom teeth. The teeth may only partially erupt or not even come in at all. Without sufficient space, you may experience a number of different problems:

•	Infection. Infections are the most common issue with wisdom teeth. If the tooth has only partially emerged from the gum tissue, it can be difficult to clean properly. Food may get stuck there, and bacteria have the perfect environment to multiply. The bacteria irritate the gums, resulting in swelling and pain. This infection can be localized or it can lead to gum disease. Bacteria can travel below the gum line and infect surrounding teeth and your jawbone, resulting in receding gums, infections in your surrounding teeth, weakened bones, and loose or lost teeth.
•	Cysts. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, a cyst (a fluid filled sac) can occur in the bone. Untreated, cysts grow, and surrounding bone is destroyed.
•	Crowding. Sometimes, a wisdom tooth grows sideways, and therefore into its neighboring tooth. When this happens, the wisdom tooth can cause the rest of your teeth to shift and become crowded.

The exact issues with your wisdom teeth are diagnosed through an oral examination and dental x-rays.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom tooth removal is an outpatient procedure that requires anesthesia. Our staff is highly trained in various types of anesthesia and we will discuss your options with you prior to removal. Some do well under local anesthetic while others may need general anesthesia.

On the day of your procedure, we will administer the chosen anesthetic. It is best that you not have anything to eat for at least six hours prior. One of our dentists will cut into your gum tissue to gain access to the tooth. In some instances, the tooth may need to be cut into smaller pieces in order remove the whole tooth. If stitches are necessary, we will use dissolvable sutures that do not need removal. Have someone with you who can drive you home.

After Surgery

Some discomfort and swelling is to be expected following wisdom tooth extraction. Pain can usually be managed with over the counter pain relievers, but we will prescribe you stronger medication if you need it. Swelling can be counteracted with ice during the first 24 hours as well as rest and keeping your head elevated. After the local anesthetic wears off, you can eat, but it is recommended that you start with liquids. You should be able to ease yourself back into your normal activities after a few days.

If your wisdom teeth are bothering you, don't wait. Call us today to schedule your consultation.
Centennial Hills: (702) 660-5574, Summerlin: (702) 660-5576

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3635 S. Town Center Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89135
(702) 660-5576

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6200 N. Durango Dr, Bldg 12, Ste. 100
Las Vegas, NV 89149
(702) 660-5574

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