Comfortable Extraction of Third Molars
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop and typically make an appearance around the age of 17 or during the early twenties. Also called third molars, these large teeth commonly cause a host of oral health complications because the average mouth cannot accommodate an extra set of molars. Most dental professionals recommend having wisdom teeth removed as soon as possible to prevent problems.Dr. S. Clint Hudson regularly performs third molar extractions in Huntsville, Alabama. As a board-certified oral surgeon and physician, Dr. Hudson approaches each case from both a dental and medical perspective. This allows him to provide optimum care and produce beneficial oral health results for every patient. If you’re in need of having wisdom teeth removed or would like an evaluation of your oral health, we invite you to contact Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants to schedule an appointment.
Benefits of Having Wisdom Teeth Removed
We often recommend having wisdom teeth extracted early before the teeth have fully developed. While younger patients often have easier surgeries and recoveries, you can have them removed at any age. Because they are so large, it’s rare for wisdom teeth to develop without causing any complications.
These can include infection, pain, swelling, cysts, tumors, and dental shifting. By having them removed, you avoid all of these issues. Additionally, a wisdom tooth’s roots are large. These roots can damage the roots of your other molars or nearby facial nerves.
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that has become stuck beneath the gums. These teeth grow at an angle, pushing against the other teeth. Impacted teeth are difficult to properly clean, leaving you prone to infections. Surgical intervention is necessary for impacted wisdom teeth because they will not erupt into the dental arch properly.
The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Less Dental Crowding.
Without that extra set of unnecessary molars, your dental arch will consist of the number of teeth it can actually hold. If left untreated, dental overcrowding often leads to teeth shifting out of place.
Protect Nearby Teeth.
Wisdom teeth, especially impacted teeth, can grow at an angle and damage nearby teeth, nerves, or roots.
Reduce the Risk of Disease.
When an impacted tooth becomes infected, the infection can spread to nearby teeth and gums. If untreated, this can progress into more serious issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
Alleviate Pain.
Some patients experience pain or pressure caused by wisdom teeth, which goes away once the molars are removed.
Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth
It’s important to remember that not everyone’s wisdom teeth cause any symptoms. Attend regular dental checkups so your general dentist can monitor these teeth and refer you to an oral surgeon when it’s time to have them removed.
It may be time to have your third molars extracted if you experience:
- Pain or swelling in the back of the mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- A wisdom tooth poking up through the gums
Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Before undergoing surgery, you will meet with Dr. Hudson at a consultation appointment. We will take 3D scans of your mouth to determine the exact size and location of your third molars. Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants offers many anesthesia and sedation options to choose from, and Dr. Hudson will help determine the right choice for your needs.
On the day of surgery, we will administer the chosen form of anesthesia. Most patients undergo IV sedation, which puts them into a sleep-like state unable to feel pain. Dr. Hudson will remove any visible third molars with forceps. Impacted teeth may need to be broken into smaller pieces before removal.
Dr. Hudson will place dissolvable sutures as needed around the tooth sockets and once the anesthesia wears off, your prearranged driver will take you home and should remain with you for 24 hours.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The cost of having your third molars extracted depends on how many wisdom teeth you have, your choice of anesthesia, your insurance, and the extent of your procedure. We will discuss all of these factors with you during the consultation so you know exactly what to expect. In order to make excellent oral surgery care accessible to more patients, Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants accepts most insurance carriers and offers financing for your treatment. To learn about your options for covering your care, ask our staff during your first visit.
Types of Anesthesia
Your comfort is important to us. We proudly offer several options for anesthesia and sedation.
Hear From Wisdom Tooth Removal Patients
These patients can tell you about the firsthand experience undergoing wisdom tooth removal at our office.
Reviews From Our Wisdom Tooth Removal Patients
"Hi, my name is Ella from Gunnersville and I came to see Dr. Hudson to have my wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Hudson is very friendly. He’s very welcoming. You can tell he’s going to take great care of you. All the staff, they’re very helpful. They’re very thoughtful and they always have your best interest in mind. The procedure and recovery both went very smoothly. Overall, I would say I had a great experience here and I would 100 percent recommend Dr. Hudson."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time off do I need for wisdom teeth removal?
Many patients return to their normal routines 1–2 days following wisdom tooth removal surgery. It will take about 2 weeks for the surgical sites to fully heal. You can ensure a smooth and speedy healing process by following the instructions provided by our office.
Will they put me to sleep for wisdom teeth removal?
Most patients undergo IV sedation, which puts them into a semi-conscious state. If you undergo IV sedation, you will be able to answer questions asked by your oral surgeon, but likely won’t remember the procedure. This method is sometimes called twilight sedation or twilight dentistry, and you will not experience discomfort while under this type of sedation.
How should I prepare for wisdom teeth removal?
Follow your pre-operative instructions closely, especially prior to undergoing anesthesia. If you are undergoing IV sedation, it is your responsibility to arrange for an adult to arrive with you to our office the day of your surgery, remain in the office throughout the procedure, and take you home afterward.
Is the third day the worst after wisdom tooth surgery?
Swelling usually peaks on the third day. You can manage pain and swelling with over-the-counter pain medications and ice packs. Keep your extraction sites clean to prevent infection by rinsing your mouth with salt water after meals. Do not use a straw for 1 week because the suction could dislodge the blood clot and result in a dry socket, which can be very painful.
Improve Your Oral Health Today
Prepare for your consultation, learn more about the services we offer, or get in contact with our office.