Proactive care of wisdom teeth: When extraction is a wise choice
At Wes Park Family Dentistry, we are more than a place to “park” when emergencies arise. In fact, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland and our team in Perry, Georgia, strive to develop strong relationships with each patient. This allows us to monitor for any problems and then intervene as appropriate to avoid damage. Potential issues include impacted wisdom teeth. By getting ahead of this complication, we help our patients avoid pain and other distressing symptoms. Interventions include extraction of the tooth that is not developing properly.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to form at the very back-most parts of the mouth. They typically appear during your teen years or early adulthood. Problems develop when they become impacted or don’t erupt through the gums (due to lack of room in the jaw or the angle of entry). The most common type of impacted wisdom tooth is “mesial,” or tipped forward.
Does the tooth have to be removed?
While every situation is different, untreated impactions make the tooth vulnerable to tender gums, swelling, and intense and persistent pain. Partly or fully impacted teeth are also hard to clean properly, which makes them prone to decay, recurring infections, and even gum disease.
How do you know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
During your regular dental check-up, Dr. Westmoreland may take x-rays to determine the growth of the last molars. If necessary, extractions can be scheduled promptly.
Why should I remove them sooner rather than later?
These third molars are usually extracted when our patients are in their late teens or early 20s. The roots are generally not mature at this point, and the surrounding bony tissue is not as dense. These factors contribute to a more positive experience and healing; it’s easier for Dr. Westmoreland to remove them, and quicker healing is promoted. Notably, these teeth will no longer pose a threat to your comfort, health, and day-to-day function.
How do you remove my teeth?
Dr. Westmoreland applies a local anesthetic to number the treatment site. He also has the additional training and expertise to safely administer a relaxing medication. A sedative may be appropriate, especially if you are stressed or anxious about treatment. To access hard-to-reach teeth embedded in the jaw, Dr. Westmoreland removes tissues as needed to reach and remove each tooth. He often “sections” the tooth as a means of minimizing the amount of bone that is removed. So, these parts are lifted less invasively through a small opening. After extractions have been performed skillfully by our dentist, it is time for your mouth to heal! At Wes Park Family Dentistry, we take great care to provide clear information on what to expect and on after-care for the extraction site to support painless, fast healing.
Call (478) 488-3561 with additional questions for our team in Perry, GA, and to schedule your appointment today.
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.