Wisdom Teeth Removal in Reedley, CA

The doctors at Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center offer wisdom teeth removal in Reedley, CA. If your wisdom teeth need to be extracted, you may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Our expert team can help—we specialize in wisdom teeth removal.

Wisdom teeth typically grow in around the ages of 17 and 25, although they can erupt in the mouth earlier or later. These teeth, also known as third molars, are often unable to fit into their proper positions because many patients simply do not have enough room in their mouth to accommodate an extra set of molars. Leaving these teeth untreated, where they cannot properly come in, can lead to a host of complications, such as impaction, dental crowding, shifting of teeth, and pain, among other issues.

Early detection and treatment is key to preventing complications. Routine dental exams well in advance of the eruption of these teeth is a recommended part of your dental care plan. If you are referred to our office for wisdom teeth extraction, you will come in for a consultation and exam. X-rays and 3D scans will be taken during this time, and options for anesthesia will be discussed. This will allow your oral surgeon to determine the treatment plan that is right for you.

Reasons to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed

Given their size and position in the mouth, wisdom teeth are often incapable of growing into the mouth properly. Wisdom teeth are often recommended for removal before the root structure develops because it is easier on the patient and prevents the following oral health complications:

• Impaction, which often leads to infection due to bacteria and germs hiding in the space created by the impacted tooth.
• Infections, which can spread to healthy teeth and bone tissue, causing pain and other problems.
• Cysts and tumors, which can develop from an untreated infection, cause permanent bone damage and be very painful.
• Damage to the adjacent teeth, which can occur when wisdom teeth are left to grow sideways.
• Dental crowding, which occurs when teeth are pushed together. This can happen when wisdom teeth grow sideways and force the adjacent teeth inward.

Having your wisdom teeth evaluated well in advance of them coming in allows you and your dental team adequate time to treat your specific dental issues and prevent major complications before they ever occur.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

In general, wisdom teeth are removed between the ages of 13 and 20, but it is more important to consider the developmental stage of the teeth than the age of the patient when deciding the optimal time for wisdom teeth removal. Adolescence is often a better time for the patient because the teeth are smaller and easier to remove, which makes for an easier recovery.

If you are recommended for wisdom teeth removal, it is a good idea to schedule your procedure around a break from work or school. This allows for adequate rest and recovery time with minimal disruption to your schedule.

About the Surgical Procedure

On the day of your surgery the procedure will begin with your previously determined option for anesthesia. IV anesthesia, which many patients choose, will put you in a sleep-like state until the procedure is over. You will not remember the procedure, and you will not feel any pain during the surgery with this option. If you choose to undergo general anesthesia or IV sedation you will need to bring a designated driver with you to this appointment. Once you are sedated and comfortable the surgeon will lift the gum tissue to expose the tooth. Sometimes, for complete removal, the tooth will need to be sectioned into smaller pieces. After your wisdom teeth have been removed and your surgical sites are sutured, you will rest until the anesthesia wears off. Your designated driver will take you home and should stay with you for 24 hours until the anesthesia fully wears off.

You will need to keep your extraction sites clean during the healing process, beginning one day after surgery rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Pain and swelling is common for the first few days after surgery but easily managed with ice packs and ibuprofen. You will need time to rest but most patients find they are able to return to their normal schedule and activities after just a few days.

Store Stem Cells From Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth contain stem cells, which are used in regenerative medicine. When you have your wisdom teeth removed, your oral surgeon can harvest these powerful cells and send them to a secure laboratory. Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center is partnered with Stemodontics^®, a leading stem cell banking service, to keep your stem cells readily available for future use. Protect your future health today and ask your surgeon about stem cell banking.