Wisdom Teeth Removal in Tacoma, WA

Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Are you experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth? You’re not alone. Many individuals encounter the need for wisdom teeth removal at some point in their lives. If you’re dealing with wisdom tooth pain, visit our dentist at Petrie Advanced Dental. We provide wisdom teeth extraction to maintain your oral health.

To book an appointment, contact our Tacoma, WA, dentist today by calling our Tacoma dental office at (253) 761-5422.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of permanent teeth to appear in the mouth, usually surfacing during the late teenage years or early twenties. While some individuals may not experience any problems with their wisdom teeth, others may face challenges due to impaction or misalignment. In such scenarios, it becomes necessary to remove wisdom teeth to prevent severe pain, infections, and damage to adjacent teeth.

It’s common for individuals to have one, two, or even all four wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth extraction is a routine oral surgery that promotes long-term oral health and protects the well-being of surrounding teeth.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth arise when there isn’t sufficient space for the teeth to emerge properly into the mouth. These teeth can become impacted in various positions, such as:

• Vertical (straight)
• Horizontal (sideways)
• Distal (angled away from the second molar)
• Mesial (angled towards the second molar)

Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal

Our dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal for various reasons.

Infections and Gum Disease

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections and gum disease due to the challenges in cleaning the area and irritation of the surrounding gum tissue. One common infection is pericoronitis, which is a localized gum infection affecting the tissue around a partially erupted tooth. 

Damage to Adjacent Teeth

Wisdom teeth can cause damage to adjacent teeth. Problems may include:

• Physical Pressure: As wisdom teeth grow in, they can push against the second molars (the teeth directly in front of them). This pressure can lead to misalignment of the second molars or other teeth, making them crooked or crowded.
• Bone and Root Resorption: Occasionally, the pressure from an emerging or impacted wisdom tooth can cause the adjacent tooth’s root to deteriorate, a condition known as root resorption. This process can weaken the second molar and may even lead to its loss if not promptly treated.
• Increased Risk of Decay: Wisdom teeth can make it challenging to thoroughly clean the back of the mouth, particularly if they come in at an angle or only partially emerge. This can result in food and bacteria becoming trapped between the wisdom tooth and its neighboring molar. 

Cyst Formation and Jawbone Issues

Cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially leading to the deterioration of the jawbone and nearby teeth. These fluid-filled sacs may gradually expand, causing harm to the surrounding jawbone and occasionally affecting teeth.

In rare instances, cysts forming around wisdom teeth can lead to tooth displacement, small lumps in the mouth, and structural damage to the jawbone, adjacent teeth, and nerves. Removing wisdom teeth can help prevent these issues and safeguard your oral health.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Removing wisdom teeth can provide patients with various benefits, including:

• Preventing overcrowding in the mouth
• Avoiding tooth impaction issues
• Reducing the risk of cysts and tumors
• Lowering the chances of gum disease and tooth decay
• Alleviating pain
• Minimizing the risk of oral infections
• Preventing harm to adjacent teeth
• Enhancing orthodontic outcomes
• Preventing jaw stiffness and swelling

Removing wisdom teeth on time can prevent the need for emergency wisdom teeth removal.

Why Choose Advanced Petrie Dental for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal?

When you choose Advanced Petrie Dental for your wisdom teeth extraction, rest assured you’re in good hands. Our Tacoma dentist boasts years of experience and exceptional skill in performing this procedure. 

We employ state-of-the-art dental technology to ensure precision and safety during your treatment. Additionally, we offer various dental sedation options to guarantee your comfort throughout your appointment.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

The wisdom tooth extraction process involves three main steps:

• Preparation
• Extraction
• Post-extraction care

Preparing for Extraction

Before undergoing your wisdom tooth extraction, you’ll participate in dental exams, consultations, and a review of your medical history, along with discussing anesthesia options. 

You’ll also be given instructions on what to avoid before the procedure, such as refraining from eating or drinking. Additionally, our dentist may prescribe medications to help manage pain and swelling before the procedure. If you don’t qualify for wisdom teeth removal, we can review alternatives to find the best treatment for your needs.

The Extraction Procedure

During the wisdom tooth extraction procedure, our Tacoma dentist will administer dental sedation to ensure you remain comfortable throughout. The type of sedation chosen will depend on the complexity of your extraction and your comfort preferences.

Once the sedation takes effect, our dentist will use specialized tools and techniques to extract the impacted wisdom tooth. This may involve making an incision in the gum tissue and removing any bone obstructing the tooth’s path. After the tooth is extracted, the extraction site will be sutured to ensure proper closure and promote healing.

Post-Extraction Care

Proper post-extraction care is crucial for healing and recovery after wisdom tooth removal. This includes managing pain and swelling while ensuring oral hygiene around the extraction site. We will provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure, including techniques for pain relief and using ice packs to minimize swelling.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Healing and recovery following wisdom tooth removal involve rest, managing swelling and pain, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. Most individuals can return to their regular activities within a week after the procedure. However, it’s essential to adhere to your dentist’s advice and take necessary precautions to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications.

Managing Swelling and Pain

Effectively managing swelling and pain is crucial during the healing process. Here are some strategies to alleviate these symptoms:

• Apply ice packs to help reduce swelling and provide comfort.
• Take medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider to manage symptoms.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended by your dentist.
• Adhere to your dentist’s guidelines when taking any medications.

Costs of Wisdom Teeth Removal

The cost of wisdom tooth removal can range from $200 to $4,000 per tooth, depending on certain factors and whether or not insurance coverage is available. Consulting your dental insurance provider to determine your coverage for wisdom tooth removal is advisable since it can vary based on your specific policy and dental condition. 

Being informed about your insurance coverage will help you make well-informed decisions regarding your dental care and prepare for any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Are you prepared for wisdom teeth removal? Reach out to our highly-rated Tacoma dentist today to set up your appointment! We will assess your oral health and decide if extraction is necessary. 

Give us a call at (253) 761-5422. We’re delighted to serve patients from Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.