Wisdom Teeth Removal in Silverdale, WA
Prevent Oral Health Problems
By the age of 14 and 18, the average adult will have 32 teeth. However, the average mouth can only house 28 teeth. These four additional molars are called wisdom teeth. Many dentists and oral surgeons recommend having them extracted to avoid numerous oral health complications.
At Kitsap Oral, Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery, our oral surgeons closely examine the needs of every patient. We offer many anesthesia and sedation options and make the wisdom tooth extraction process comfortable and seamless. Contact Kitsap Oral, Maxillofacial & Dental Implant Surgery in Silverdale, WA, for an appointment with Dr. Sukhdeep Dhaliwal, Dr. Paul Greenawalt, Dr. Thomas Curran, and Dr. Douglas Baasch if it's time for you or your child to have third molars removed.
Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. They often make an appearance between the ages of 14 and 18. Sometimes, they can align properly and not cause issues, but this is rare. More often, wisdom teeth grow sideways, partially erupt, or remain fully trapped beneath the gums. This is known as impaction, and impacted wisdom teeth must be surgically removed.
An impacted wisdom tooth can push against adjacent teeth, resulting in dental shifting and pain. When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, it is difficult to clean. This makes it easy for plaque to accumulate, resulting in infection. Having an oral surgeon remove your wisdom teeth prevents these issues and more from occurring, such as:
- Chronic bad breath
- Jaw stiffness
- Tumors or cysts that form around impacted teeth
- Swelling and discomfort
- Dental shifting
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Damage to facial nerves
Patients who have wisdom teeth extracted avoid the chance of these problems from occurring due to third molars. While it is most common for teens and young adults to undergo this procedure, you can have wisdom teeth removed at any age.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
During your first visit, one of our oral surgeons will examine your oral health. We will take 3D scans of your teeth to evaluate the exact size and location of wisdom teeth. As oral surgeons, we are qualified to administer many forms of anesthesia. We will help you select the right option so you do not feel any pain.
Local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia are available. Most patients undergo IV sedation for wisdom teeth removal. This form of sedation will put you into a sleep-like state. You will not feel discomfort and will wake up with no memory of the procedure. An adult must be present to drive you home afterward.
When it is time for your oral surgery procedure, we will administer the selected form of anesthesia. Once it has taken effect and you are comfortable, your oral surgeon will extract any fully erupted wisdom teeth using forceps. For impacted wisdom teeth, your surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth, then remove it. Sutures are placed as necessary, and you will rest in our office until you are ready to go home.
Types of Anesthesia
Our practice offers many types of anesthesia and sedation for your comfort.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Silverdale, WA
The cost of having your wisdom teeth extracted in Silverdale, WA, depends on several factors. This includes the number of wisdom teeth, your choice of anesthesia, your insurance, and the overall complexity of the procedure. We outline the total cost of wisdom teeth removal during the consultation so you know what to expect prior to treatment.
Hear From Wisdom Teeth Removal Patients
These patients can tell you about their firsthand experience undergoing wisdom teeth removal at our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the third day after wisdom teeth removal the worst?
Some swelling and discomfort can be expected with any type of surgical procedure. Around the third day after having wisdom teeth removed, swelling typically peaks. After this, it will begin to subside. You can manage swelling by using ice packs immediately after surgery for up to 48 hours, keeping your head elevated, and following your post-operative instructions.
Should I get two or four wisdom teeth removed?
You should have all wisdom teeth extracted at the same time. Wisdom teeth will often need to be removed at some point. Having them removed in one surgical visit will save you time and money, and prevent the risks associated with third molars.
How safe is wisdom teeth removal surgery?
Oral surgeons undergo many additional years of training in order to safely perform surgical procedures such as wisdom tooth removal. Oral surgeons are trained to administer anesthesia, monitor patients during surgery, and are more qualified to manage oral and maxillofacial conditions. Wisdom teeth removal is a safe and regularly performed oral surgery procedure.
What happens if you wait too long to get wisdom teeth out?
If left untreated, wisdom teeth will become more firmly embedded into the jaw bone as they develop. This can make future extraction more difficult. Some wisdom teeth do not cause pain, but still may be causing oral health issues. A wisdom tooth's root may grow in the direction of a nerve, which can be painful if the nerve is struck. This issue and others can be avoided entirely by having the third molars removed early.
Expert Oral & Cosmetic Surgery Care
Our surgeons have provided exceptional care to patients in Kitsap County for over three decades. At each of our locations, you and your family can expect to be treated with compassion and honesty every step of the way.