Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Considered Surgery?

If you don’t have enough room in your mouth for a third set of molars to fully erupt, a few problems could occur. Before their root structure has a chance to fully develop, you should talk to your dentist about undergoing wisdom teeth removal in 76210. In this way, you’ll be able to prevent future dental complications resulting from the eruption.

Does It Count as Oral Surgery?

Oral Surgery Defined

To determine whether wisdom tooth extraction is counted as oral surgery, delving into the definition of oral surgery is necessary. It is defined as any surgical process performed in or around the mouth and jaw. It is generally conducted by a dental specialist who is experienced in performing certain types of surgery.

The different types of oral surgery include basic dental treatments like root canal and tooth removal. It may also include jaw reconstruction or repositioning. In some instances, oral surgery may also be done to remove a tumor in the gums.

Position of the Wisdom Tooth

According to dentists, wisdom teeth extraction may sometimes be considered oral surgery. Nonetheless, it will still depend on the position of the tooth. If your wisdom tooth partially erupted or does not come out straight, minor oral surgery may be advisable. More so, surgery is also needed if the tooth has incorrectly erupted through the gum line. 

For instance, if you have an impacted wisdom tooth, you’ll most likely need to undergo some surgical intervention. Such process should be done before the tooth erupts to prevent it from pushing other teeth out of place.

Importance of Extracting Wisdom Teeth

First, we need to look into the position of your tooth to know whether it’s necessary to get it extracted or not. Some people have wisdom teeth come out perfectly straight and have enough room in the jaw. Unfortunately, most people have an impacted wisdom tooth or a tooth that may have erupted properly but doesn’t not have enough space. This situation makes it mandatory to get the tooth removed to prevent further dental complications.

Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include infection, cyst formation, possible crowding, and damage to the adjacent teeth.

Know if Wisdom Teeth Extraction Is for You

If your wisdom teeth are stuck beneath your gum line, have partially erupted, or get impacted, you will need the help of a dentist or oral surgeon. A lot of patients don’t have enough room in their jaw to accommodate a wisdom tooth, which is why it is highly advisable that the tooth be removed as soon as possible.

Expectations After Wisdom Teeth Removal

After your wisdom teeth removal and the anesthesia wears off, you’ll be experiencing some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Depending on the anesthesia or sedative administered, you may expect foggy thoughts and disorientation.

Once the extraction process is completed, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the extraction site to prevent the bleeding. Remember not to remove the gauze pad for at least 30 minutes after the surgery. You can also ask your dentist about when and how to replace it.

*Note: It is commonly recommended you have a friend or family member pick you up and gather all your necessary information after the surgery. Depending on the form of sedative used, you may not remember all the directives given – and you’ll want to remember. 

Swelling not only occurs on the surgical site, but you may also experience swollen cheeks due to the pressure applied during the extraction. However, there is no need to worry because your dentist will provide you with medications to help deal with the swelling and discomfort.

What to Do After Wisdom Teeth Removal in 76210

Whether you had a minor or major oral surgery, it’s imperative that you be prepared before, during, and after the procedure. You have to organize a recovery space in your home for optimum comfort. Knowing the dos and don’ts after the surgery is also important for fast recovery. To learn more about wisdom teeth extraction and recovery, contact our staff at Texas Oral Surgery Group!