At Miami Designer Smiles, we understand the anxiety and fear that often accompany the thought of having your wisdom teeth removed, especially for teenagers. However, our dentists, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia, assure you it’s a common procedure they’ve successfully carried out scores of times.
The Necessity for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 21. They’re the last set of teeth to appear, and there’s often not enough room in the mouth for them. This lack of space could lead to the following complications:
- Impaction: The wisdom teeth could become impacted, meaning they’re unable to break through the gums fully.
- Pain and infection: Overgrowth of bacteria around an impacted tooth could lead to painful infections and cavities.
- Crowding or damage to other teeth: Wisdom teeth may push against other teeth, causing pain and sometimes even altering an individual’s bite.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The decision to remove wisdom teeth is made after a comprehensive oral exam at our Miami clinic. This may include dental X-rays and a personalized consultation with one of our dentists. Here are some reasons why wisdom teeth removal might be advantageous:
Preventative Care
Removing wisdom teeth can be viewed as preventative treatment, potentially saving myriad dental issues down the line. This includes potential misalignment of the teeth, periodontal problems, and other complex issues that may necessitate orthodontic intervention.
Reduced Risk of Oral Disease
Impacted wisdom teeth are breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to oral diseases like cavities and periodontal disease. Removal of these teeth would reduce the risk of such complications.
Less Discomfort
Wisdom teeth can often cause discomfort, especially when they’re growing in. This discomfort can range from minor and intermittent, to chronic and severe. Once removed, this discomfort disappears.
Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While wisdom teeth removal has clear benefits, it’s also essential we discuss the potential risks.
Post-Operative Infections
As with any surgical process, there’s a risk of infection post-surgery. Our dentists at Miami Designer Smiles take every precaution to minimize these risks.
Temporary Numbness
Very rarely, wisdom teeth removal may cause temporary numbness due to nerve irritation. However, this is typically temporary and our dentists are trained to avoid this.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
After wisdom teeth removal, you can expect the recovery period to last a few days. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:
- Rest and take it easy for at least a day after the procedure.
- Use prescribed medication as directed by your dentist for pain relief.
- Avoid rigorous brushing around the surgery area.
- Keep hydrated, but avoid using straws as the suction motion may dislodge the blood clot at your wound site.
- Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes and yogurt for the first few days after surgery.
Trust Miami Designer Smiles for Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Miami Designer Smiles, your comfort and oral health are our priority. Trust Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia to guide you through every step of wisdom teeth removal. Questions about the procedure, risks, benefits, or recovery process? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.