January 13, 2021

What are the Different Types of Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Types-of-Wisdom-Teeth-Removal-Coral-Gables-Florida

While the term wisdom teeth may have a nice ring to it, wisdom teeth are simply molars that tend to cause unwanted dental challenges for many patients. Since these molars appear later in life, the term “wisdom” was coined for them since you are more mature. The term may stem from the Latin phrase dens sapientiae, which means third molar tooth. These pesky teeth can become quite a nuisance. This post will go into detail on all things wisdom teeth and the different types of wisdom teeth removal procedures.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar. Most adults will have a total of 12 molars, 4 of which are, you guessed it, wisdom teeth. Molars are flatter teeth, with larger surface areas and are the strongest teeth in your mouth. They help to grind up food and break them up into smaller pieces that you can then swallow. So next time you’re enjoying a steak, you should remember to thank your molars.

When do wisdom teeth come in?

There is a range of when most people have their wisdom teeth come in, most commonly it’s between the ages of 17-25. It is quite possible that you may not have any wisdom teeth or maybe just one or two. An x-ray will clearly show if you will have wisdom teeth and which ones. Did you know that it’s estimated that 5-37% of people are missing one or more of their wisdom teeth? Maybe you’re one of them! Rest assured you’re not alone.

What are the reasons to have wisdom teeth removed?

Over time, we’ve evolved as human beings, and one of those parts that have changed is that our jaws have become smaller. One’s jaw stops growing around the age of 18, but with wisdom teeth coming in after that age, there is often little room for them to grow in properly, thus causing problems such as:

Crowded teeth
Crooked teeth
Tooth decay
Jaw pain
Infection
Swelling
And other not so pleasant dental issues

It’s important to pay close attention to any issues you may be experiencing and have a wisdom tooth removal evaluation from a trusted dental professional. If they aren’t causing issues, you and your dentist will monitor them closely to see if this changes.

What are the different types of wisdom teeth removal?

The type of wisdom tooth removal performed will be dictated by how wisdom teeth grow.

The four types of wisdom teeth removal are:

Nonimpacted wisdom teeth removal

This is a more standard tooth extraction that will take place when wisdom teeth erupt above your gums and are visible. It’s perhaps the simplest of the procedures.

Soft tissue impact removal

This tooth removal occurs when the wisdom tooth has grown above the upper border of the jawbone but is still covered by gum tissue.

Partial bony impact removal

This tooth removal is performed when the tooth is still partially impacted in the jaw.

Complete or full bony impact removal

This is a more challenging wisdom tooth extraction as the tooth is completely stuck in the jaw and has not erupted.

What should I expect from wisdom teeth surgery?

Like all medical procedures, it’s important to understand the potential risks when having your wisdom teeth removed as well as the implications of not removing them. Approximately 85% of wisdom teeth will need to be removed at some point, it’s often just a matter of when.

To prevent discomfort during the wisdom teeth surgery, either local or general anesthesia will be administered and this should be a conversation you have with your dental professional. The procedure should take about 45-minutes and can be done right in the dental office. You will most likely need someone to drive you home. Post-surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon will most likely prescribe an antibiotic and antiseptic mouthwash to prevent infection and suggest a liquid and soft diet along with no strenuous activities.

What is wisdom teeth surgery recovery like?

Mild discomfort and swelling are common for a few days post wisdom teeth surgery and food should be limited to a liquid and soft diet with no hot foods or drinks. Drinking through a straw should be avoided to prevent dry sockets and dislodging any blood clots which are important to promote healing.

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?

Most wisdom tooth removal is covered by insurance. The team at South Gables Dental can assist you in assessing your dental insurance plan coverage.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Services in Coral Gables, Florida

Are you in need of wisdom teeth removal? Do you reside in the Coral Gables, Miami, South Miami, Kendall, or the surrounding South Florida areas? We can help. South Gables Dental is a top wisdom teeth removal dental practice in Coral Gables. Click below to schedule an appointment.

Book Your Appointment

Sources

Share This Post

South Gables Dental