At Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery, we understand that the prospect of wisdom teeth removal can be intimidating, especially when considering their proximity to other important anatomical structures within the face. One important nerve in particular runs through the lower jaw and is often discussed in relation to the extraction of wisdom teeth. It’s vital that patients have an understanding of this relationship in the context of how their own wisdom teeth are positioned, so they may appropriately discuss any concerns or fears associated with the procedure. Dr. Brian R. Cherry’s aim is to always provide patients with a comprehensive understanding that dismantles any lingering fears and empowers informed decisions.
Wisdom teeth, also known as the 17-year-old molars, often pose challenges due to jaw size and the significant pressure they can put on neighboring teeth. These molars are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically appearing in late adolescence or early adulthood. As wisdom teeth start to come in, their roots can vary in direction and length, sometimes coming into contact with the nerve embedded inside the lower jaw. This close contact can potentially lead to short or long-term nerve damage, resulting in numbness or tingling sensations. To avoid these complications, it is often recommended to consider the prophylactic removal of wisdom teeth, especially in cases where their proximity to the nerve raises the risk of long-term issues and discomfort.
Although it is always beneficial to weigh surgical and non-surgical options, leaving wisdom teeth untouched can have consequences. They may impact adjacent teeth, leading to alignment and crowding issues, as well as difficulties in maintaining proper oral hygiene. When you are unable to adequately clean around the wisdom teeth, pockets can form where bacteria and food particles accumulate, further causing inflammation, infections, and cavities. Patients may also experience intermittent symptoms, such as a dull, ache and throb, signaling the teeth’s attempt to emerge through the gums. Understanding these signs is crucial in making timely decisions regarding wisdom teeth removal.
Just like any surgical procedure, wisdom teeth removal comes with its own risks. However, the goal of Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery is to present these associated risks in an informational and educational manner. Since every patient is different, Dr. Cherry and his team perform thorough examinations, considering factors like root development, medical histories, proximity to the nerve, and overall health. He also utilizes his expertise to predict potential difficulties through advanced imaging, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each unique case.
The risk of damage to adjacent teeth increases with time, so there is an emphasis on proactive intervention at an earlier age. But, if wisdom teeth are to be removed at a later age and time, Dr. Brian R. Cherry is more than equipped to handle any additional concerns or risk factors. When wisdom teeth are removed later in life, the bone is denser, making the extraction process more challenging. Additionally, as patients grow older, their medical histories typically become more complex as well. However, with specialized training, sophisticated imaging techniques, and a nuanced understanding of individual patient needs, Dr. Cherry treats extractions at every age with precision and care.
Wisdom teeth removal is typically recommended before the middle of the third decade of life. Although, there are still many people who come in to have their wisdom teeth removed after the conventional timeframe. With every such case, Dr. Cherry will assess the need for wisdom teeth removal and will walk each patient through the surgical plan and all the pre-operative and post-operative care instructions. Other things to consider are time needed off of work, recovery, pain management, and having a dedicated individual to be there with you before, during, and after surgery.
To ensure patient comfort, both IV sedation and local anesthesia are often used. Electing to be asleep reduces patient anxiety and patient movement during the procedure, allowing for a more precise and swift completion. A more efficient surgery often leads to less postoperative pain, swelling, and recovery time. Dr. Brian R. Cherry and his team prioritize the strategic use of anesthesia as an integral component in providing a positive and streamlined experience throughout the removal process.
It is widely recognized that the experience of the surgeon is a crucial factor in any surgical procedure. In the case of wisdom teeth removal, oral surgeons like Dr. Cherry, who have specialized training and expertise, can provide a higher level of precision and safety. While general dentists are capable of performing this procedure, they may not possess the same level of anatomical and surgical knowledge needed for more complex cases.
Understanding the relationship between wisdom teeth and the nerve is a crucial step in dispelling fears associated with the extraction process. The team at Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery is eager to provide each patient with the right knowledge, enabling them to make decisions that prioritize their oral health. As a way to stay ahead of any future discomfort and as a measure to minimize complications within surgery, it’s recommended to make an appointment to discuss your wisdom teeth. Schedule a consultation with Cherry Orchard Oral & Implant Surgery today to embark on a path towards a healthier smile.