Skilled Wisdom Tooth Extraction for Improved Oral Health
When they begin to appear at the back of the mouth in a patient’s late teens or early twenties, wisdom teeth commonly cause problems. The reason is because these teeth (also called third molars) typically do not have enough room in the jaw. Because of this, they may come in at an angle, or they may erupt partially or not at all. Dr. Lifferth performs wisdom tooth extraction at his oral surgery center in Park City, UT, to relieve complications or prevent them from occurring in the first place. Dr. Lifferth performs this oral surgery safely and conservatively, with minimal discomfort.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
When wisdom teeth align properly and gum tissue is healthy, they don’t necessarily have to be removed. However, it is extremely difficult to maintain them without gum infection of decay because their location far back in the mouth makes oral hygiene difficult. This is one reason why dentists usually recommend early wisdom tooth removal. Also, the surgery and the recovery are easier when the patient is younger.
Misaligned, impacted, or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause numerous oral health issues:
- Partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause a flap of gum tissue to grow over the area, which can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection.
- Crooked wisdom teeth can cause similar effects, trapping food and bacteria and making cleaning difficult.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can erupt at improper angles, damaging jawbone tissue and surrounding teeth.
- Over-eruption can occur when there is no tooth above or below to oppose the wisdom tooth. It can then hit the gum and create ulcers.
- Cysts can be a side effect of problematic wisdom teeth. It is best to treat cysts early, because they can damage the jawbone and healthy surrounding teeth.
Why Choose Us?
Dr. Lifferth is a highly experienced and knowledgeable practitioner who can treat simple cases, as well as those complicated by cysts, tumors, and other oral health issues. Our office also specializes in oral pathology, so infections and oral diseases caused by wisdom teeth can be easily screened and treated as part of your treatment plan.
The Treatment Process
During your initial consultation, Dr. Lifferth will assess your dental health using 3-D scans and x-rays to identify your needs and create a comprehensive treatment plan. Dr. Lifferth can perform preventative extractions for younger patients just beginning to develop wisdom teeth, as well as older patients experiencing complications.
Dr. Lifferth is a highly experienced and knowledgeable practitioner who can treat simple cases, as well as those complicated by cysts, tumors, and other oral health issues.
Prior to surgery, a local anesthetic will completely numb the treatment area. We also offer a variety of sedation methods to ensure that your surgery is performed comfortably, A general anesthetic may be used in special cases, especially if several or all of your wisdom teeth are being extracted at the same time.
If the tooth has come all the way through the gums, then Dr. Lifferth can remove it easily. If it is impacted, then he will make an incision in the gum tissue. If necessary, he will remove some bone to access the tooth. Sometimes the tooth is cut into smaller pieces to make removal less difficult. After the extraction, Dr. Lifferth may place dissolvable stitches to close the incisions.
Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure because these teeth rarely come in without interference. Modern dentistry techniques make their removal safe and comfortable.
After Treatment Care
In most cases, the recovery period lasts a few days. After your procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which should subside within a week. Over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs can usually control it. You should also eat nutritious soft or liquid foods for several days, and continue to use caution when eating until your recovery is complete.
It is important to keep your mouth clean. You should brush your teeth the night of surgery, but be careful and gentle around the surgical sites. If there is minimal bleeding, saltwater rinses (one tablespoon of salt per eight ounces of water) may begin 24 hours after surgery. Rinses can help maintain oral hygiene while being gentle on the treatment areas.
Dr. Lifferth will give you specific instructions to follow for your individual wisdom tooth removal case. He will also be available if you have any concerns after your surgery.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are in need of wisdom tooth extraction, Dr. Lifferth can relieve your symptoms and put you on the path to a healthy, comfortable smile. If you are experiencing wisdom tooth complications, or if you would like to speak with Dr. Lifferth about preventative wisdom tooth extraction for your child, contact us today.