Wisdom Tooth Extractions in San Jose
What are Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
Wisdom tooth extractions are a common dental procedure used to remove the third molars, which are the last teeth to develop in the mouth. These teeth often emerge during the late teens or early twenties and can lead to a variety of issues, including crowding, pain, infection, or impaction if there isn’t enough room in the jaw to accommodate them.
At Bittner Family Dental Group in San Jose, we perform gentle, precise wisdom tooth extractions to relieve discomfort, prevent future complications, and protect the alignment and health of your smile. Whether your wisdom teeth are causing pain or you’ve been told they need to come out, our experienced team is here to make the process smooth and stress-free.
The Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Relief from Pain and Pressure
When wisdom teeth start to shift or push against surrounding teeth, they can cause significant discomfort. Removing them relieves pressure, jaw pain, and swelling.
Prevention of Crowding and Misalignment
Wisdom teeth can disrupt the alignment of your smile, especially if you’ve had orthodontic work in the past. Early removal helps preserve the results of previous treatments.
Reduced Risk of Infection and Decay
Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, making them more prone to infection and decay. Extractions help eliminate these problem areas and improve long-term oral health.
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction treatment process
Comprehensive Exam and Imaging
Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth with a full exam and digital X-rays to determine their position, root structure, and whether they are impacted. We’ll walk you through your options and create a personalized treatment plan.
Comfort-First Preparation
On the day of your procedure, we’ll ensure you’re completely comfortable with local anesthesia. Sedation options may be recommended for surgical extractions or anxious patients to create a more relaxed experience.
Gentle Removal and Recovery Guidance
Your dentist will carefully remove each wisdom tooth using specialized tools. If the teeth are impacted, we may need to make a small incision in the gum. Afterward, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to manage swelling, maintain cleanliness, and promote healing.
Types of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
If your wisdom teeth have fully emerged through the gums, they may be removed using a simple extraction technique under local anesthesia. These are typically the least complex cases.
When wisdom teeth don’t fully emerge or grow in at an angle, they are considered impacted. These cases often require surgical extraction and additional post-operative care to ensure smooth healing.
Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing immediate issues, proactive removal can help prevent problems before they start. If your X-rays show limited space or potential crowding, we’ll let you know the pros and cons of removing your wisdom teeth right away or waiting to remove them.
