What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth. They commonly develop from the mid-teen years into the early twenties.
What is an impacted tooth?
When there is not enough room for a wisdom tooth to erupt normally, it can remain partly or completely trapped between the jawbone and gums. X-rays show its position and relationship to nearby structures.
Why removal may be recommended
Impacted or difficult-to-clean wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, cyst formation, crowding, or damage to adjacent teeth. Evaluation in the teen years allows the position and root development to be monitored before repeated problems occur.
Oral examination
An examination and panoramic X-ray help Dr. Shnayder assess available space, root development, and signs of disease. The consultation also covers medical history, anesthesia options, and the individualized treatment plan.
The day of surgery
Removal commonly takes 30–60 minutes, with about 90 minutes spent at the office. A responsible adult must stay during surgery and drive the patient home when sedation is used.
Follow the office’s exact fasting and medication directions. Dissolving stitches may be used, and local anesthesia helps with comfort as the sedation wears off.
Recovery
Minor bleeding and soreness are expected at first. Swelling often peaks around the second day and begins easing after that. Use ice, diet progression, medication, and activity limits exactly as directed.
Many patients are well into recovery within three to five days, although healing varies.
Possible problems
Potential complications include delayed healing, infection, dry socket, sinus communication, and altered sensation when a tooth lies close to a nerve. Call the office if bleeding will not slow, symptoms worsen unexpectedly, or a medication causes a reaction.