To provide you with a better understanding of wisdom teeth we have provided an extensive multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to this type of surgery is discussed.

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Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully.

These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the tooth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom tooth may move other teeth and disrupt orthodontic treatment or natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

Oral Examination

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Sansevere can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there may be present or cause future problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid- teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Dr. Sansevere has the advanced training, license and experience to provide various types of anesthesia for patients to select ensuring a comfortable surgical experience.

Removal

In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia), intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. These options as well as the surgical risks (i.e. sensory nerve damage, sinus complications, etc.) will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. Once the teeth are removed, the gum is typically sutured with dissolving sutures. To help control bleeding, bite down on the gauze placed in your mouth. You will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, your post-operative kit will include postoperative instructions, extra gauze to control oozing from the surgical site, and may also include prescriptions for pain medication, antibiotics, medication to control post-operative swelling, a medicated mouth wash and a follow-up appointment, if needed. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at (908) 806-7060.

Our services are provided in an environment of optimum safety that utilizes the most modern monitoring equipment and staff that are experienced in anesthesia techniques.