Safeguarding Your Long-Term Oral Health
At our Flemington office, the oral surgeons at West Jersey Oral, Maxillofacial, & Dental Implant Surgery specialize in the safe and comfortable removal of wisdom teeth. These third molars are often the last to develop, and most mouths do not have enough space to accommodate them. We recommend an early evaluation in the mid-teenage years to prevent future complications and protect your long-term oral health.
Understanding Third Molars
Wisdom teeth, clinically known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. For most people, the jaw is not large enough to accommodate these four extra teeth, leading to a variety of complications. An early evaluation with an oral surgeon is the best way to assess their position and development and create a proactive plan for removal before problems begin.
Potential Complications from Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth are not removed, they can lead to a host of significant oral health issues. Our surgeons recommend removal to prevent the following:
- Impaction: When a tooth lacks the space to erupt properly, it becomes trapped or "impacted" in the jaw bone. Impacted teeth can grow at an angle, pushing against other teeth or remaining fully encased in bone.
- Pain and Infection: A partially erupted wisdom tooth can create a flap of gum tissue that traps bacteria, leading to a painful and recurrent infection called pericoronitis, which causes swelling and jaw stiffness.
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth: The pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can damage the neighboring second molar, leading to cavities, root damage, and gum disease. It can also cause crowding that can shift the alignment of your other teeth.
- Cyst Formation: In some cases, a fluid-filled sac, or cyst, can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. If left untreated, these cysts can destroy the surrounding jaw bone and damage the roots of nearby teeth.
Your Initial Evaluation in Flemington
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at our Flemington location. This appointment is a critical step where you will meet with one of our board-certified oral surgeons to discuss your specific situation.
We will perform a comprehensive examination and take a state-of-the-art 3D CBCT scan. This detailed image provides an unparalleled view of your wisdom teeth, their root structures, and their exact position relative to the nerves in your jaw. This allows your surgeon to create a precise and safe surgical plan tailored specifically to you.
What to Expect During Your Surgery
On the day of your surgery, we ask that you follow all pre-operative instructions, which will include having a responsible adult escort to drive you home if you are receiving sedation. Our surgical team will bring you to one of our state-of-the-art surgical suites and help you get comfortable.
Your surgeon will administer your chosen method of anesthesia and ensure you are completely at ease before the procedure begins. They will then carefully and efficiently remove the wisdom teeth. Once the procedure is complete, you will rest in our monitored recovery area until you are ready to be safely discharged with detailed post-operative care instructions.
A Commitment to a Comfortable Experience
We understand that the thought of surgery can cause anxiety. Your comfort and safety are our highest priorities. As board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, our doctors have extensive hospital-based training in the safe administration of all levels of anesthesia. We offer local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and IV sedation or general anesthesia, which allow you to rest comfortably in a sleep-like state, completely unaware of the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Common signs include pain or pressure in the back of your jaw, but often there are no symptoms at all. A 3D scan at a consultation is the only way to definitively determine if your wisdom teeth will cause problems in the future.
Is the procedure painful?
No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain. Our team is dedicated to managing your comfort, and post-operative discomfort is typically well-controlled with medication.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket is a rare but painful complication that can occur when the blood clot in the extraction site is dislodged prematurely. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the site to minimize this risk, including avoiding straws and smoking.
What is recovery like?
Recovery usually takes a few days. You can expect some swelling and should stick to a soft diet initially. We provide comprehensive instructions to ensure a smooth and speedy healing process.
Begin Your Process at Our Flemington Office
If it is time for you or your child to have wisdom teeth evaluated, contact our Flemington office to schedule a consultation. Our expert team is here to provide the highest standard of surgical care in a safe and supportive environment.