Wisdom Teeth Removal in Round Rock, Texas
Wisdom teeth are third molars that typically emerge during late teenage years or early adulthood, often when the mouth has already fully developed. Their appearance, usually at a time when individuals are transitioning into adulthood, is why they are sometimes called “wisdom teeth.” Most people end up having these teeth removed due to the limited space in the mouth, which often causes pain, misalignment, or other issues. In fact, some individuals may not even develop all four wisdom teeth, while others may not have them at all.
But why do we even have wisdom teeth? It’s believed that our ancestors needed these extra molars to chew through tougher foods, such as raw plants and meat, which required more chewing power. However, with modern advances in food preparation and diet, wisdom teeth are no longer as necessary for most people. Today, the space in our mouths has decreased due to evolutionary changes, leading to a lack of room for these teeth to emerge properly.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
One of the biggest misconceptions about wisdom teeth is that they need to be removed regardless of whether they cause any issues. While it’s true that many people undergo wisdom teeth removal to prevent complications, not everyone requires this procedure. Some individuals may experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, and if they are healthy and properly aligned, they may not need to be extracted. However, in many cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended to avoid future problems such as infection, tooth crowding, or damage to surrounding teeth.
At Smile Solutions Dentistry, Dr. B and his team closely monitor the growth of wisdom teeth, advising removal only when it’s necessary to prevent complications or maintain your oral health. Regular dental checkups and x-rays help determine whether your wisdom teeth should be removed.
5 Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
While some people may experience no symptoms with their wisdom teeth, others may face a variety of issues that indicate removal is necessary.
Request AppointmentPain or Sensitivity in Back of Mouth
If you experience persistent pain or sensitivity around the back of your mouth, especially near your molars, this could indicate that your wisdom teeth are coming in or that they are becoming impacted.
Jaw Stiffness or Discomfort
If your jaw becomes stiff or painful when you open your mouth, this may be a sign that your wisdom teeth are causing pressure or irritation in the area.
Swollen Gums
Inflammation or redness of the gums around your wisdom teeth could signal an infection or the early stages of impaction.
Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
An infection caused by wisdom teeth can lead to a lingering bad taste or persistent bad breath, often due to trapped food or bacteria.
Sinus Issues
Sometimes, wisdom teeth can put pressure on the sinuses, leading to sinus pain or congestion.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that doesn’t have enough space to fully emerge through the gums or is growing at an angle that causes it to push against other teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of issues, including pain, infection, tooth crowding, and damage to neighboring teeth. In some cases, an impacted tooth can lead to the development of cysts or abscesses, which can cause further complications.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent additional oral health problems. Dr. B will evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth during routine checkups and, if necessary, recommend a treatment plan to address impaction.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
If Dr. B determines that your wisdom teeth need to be removed, understanding the process can help alleviate any anxiety you may have. The procedure is performed with three types of anesthesia options available, depending on your individual needs:
- Local Anesthesia: Numbs the area around the tooth.
- Sedation Anesthesia: Makes you relaxed and drowsy during the procedure.
- General Anesthesia: Puts you to sleep during the extraction.
The procedure involves Dr. B making an incision in the gum to access the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the bone around the teeth may need to be removed to allow the tooth to be extracted. The tooth is then divided into smaller pieces for easier removal, and the site is cleaned thoroughly to avoid any infection. Once the extraction is complete, the gum is sutured and gauze is placed over the site to help with blood clotting.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After the procedure, you will spend some time in the recovery area if you received general anesthesia. It is normal to experience some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort, which should subside over the next few days. Dr. B will provide post-operative instructions to help you recover as quickly and comfortably as possible, including:
- Rest: It’s important to rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot drinks for the first 24 hours.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities for up to a week to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
You may also be prescribed pain medication to manage any discomfort during the recovery process.
If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth or need to schedule a consultation, contact Smile Solutions Dentistry today. Dr. B and our team are here to provide personalized care and answer any questions you may have regarding wisdom teeth removal and your oral health.
LOCATED IN ROUND ROCK, TEXAS
Smile Solutions Dentistry is a full-service, one-stop dental office where patients receive comprehensive care for all of their dental needs under one roof. Your smile is the reason for everything we do. Dr. Bruce Beheshtin, a board-certified dentist, leads our practice. With years of experience, Dr. Beheshtin is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to each and every patient. We are proud to serve the communities of Austin, Round Rock, and Georgetown. With free parking and multilingual staff, we strive to make dentistry as convenient and stress-free as possible.
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Thursday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Friday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | Closed |
| Emergency Services | By Appointment Only |
We are located in the heart of the Teravista community near the Teravista Golf Club, behind the Round Rock Outlet Mall.
Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs
-
How long does wisdom teeth removal recovery take?
Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. Most people experience mild swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Full recovery may take a few weeks. -
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure itself is not painful because anesthesia is used. However, some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding may occur afterward, which is normal and usually subsides in a few days. -
Can I drive myself home after wisdom teeth removal?
If you are receiving sedation or general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home. You should avoid driving until the effects of the anesthesia have worn off. -
What if I don't have my wisdom teeth removed?
If your wisdom teeth are healthy, not impacted, and don’t cause any problems, they may not need to be removed. However, if you experience pain or other issues, it may be necessary to extract them. -
Can wisdom teeth grow back after removal?
No, once wisdom teeth are removed, they do not grow back. Any problems caused by wisdom teeth, such as impaction, can be resolved permanently with extraction.
MEET OUR BOARD-CERTIFIED SMILE EXPERT
“We strive to make dentistry better! Our team offers modern smile solutions through state-of-the-art techniques and a passion for patient experience.”
We Are Proud Members of
Full-Service Dental Office
Dr.B is able to perform everything from routine cleanings and preventive care, to more advanced procedures like dental implants, root canal therapy, full mouth fixed dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and clear aligners. This all-inclusive approach allows patients to avoid referrals to multiple specialists, saving them time, money, and the stress of having to visit multiple offices.
High-Quality Care
With his extensive training and commitment to staying at the forefront of dental technology, Dr. B ensures that each patient receives the highest quality care, tailored to their unique needs, all within the comfort and convenience of his trusted dental practice. Whether it’s a simple filling, a complex extraction, or a complete smile makeover, Dr. B has the skills and experience to handle it all.
SEE WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US
EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL DENTAL CARE IN ROUND ROCK, TX
The team here at Smile Solutions Dentistry is dedicated to providing the best patient experience possible. Our wide variety of dental services are designed to help you smile with confidence.
CONTACT OUR DENTAL TEAM
We are here to help answer any questions or concerns you may have. Reach out to us today!
"*" indicates required fields
Follow Us