Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are at the back of your mouth. While not all wisdom teeth require removal, they can lead to issues if they do not grow properly. Our practice offers advanced, state-of-the-art oral surgery services, including wisdom tooth removal.

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Wilmington, NC

Most people’s jaws are too small for their wisdom teeth to come in properly. These teeth typically emerge in the late teens or early 20s. Regular dental checkups with digital X-rays can help monitor their progress. Removing these teeth may be recommended if there’s a likelihood of problems.

When wisdom teeth don’t grow correctly, they may become impacted, causing pain and affecting the alignment of other teeth and the smile’s appearance. Additionally, they can be hard to clean, leading to an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

While many general and family practices refer patients for wisdom teeth removal, Dr. John at Porters Neck Dental Aesthetics in Wilmington, NC, takes pride in offering comprehensive care, including oral surgery. If you or a loved one may benefit from wisdom teeth removal, consider starting with a checkup at their office.

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

While every patient is different, some common signs indicate the need to have your wisdom teeth removed. These signs include:

  • Impaction: If the tooth is stuck under the gums or completely hidden. If wisdom teeth can’t emerge normally, they can become trapped within your jaw, which can result in infection or cause a cyst that can damage other teeth or roots. We typically refer those with impacted wisdom teeth to another office.
  • Changing bite alignment: Wisdom teeth can grow at various angles in the jaw, sometimes horizontally, causing a change in your bite alignment.
  • Crowding or damage to existing teeth caused by wisdom teeth not having enough room to come in properly.
  • Emerging only partially: If your wisdom teeth only partially emerge through the gums, it can create a magnet for bacteria that can cause gum disease and oral infection.

Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth early before the roots and bone are fully formed, which speeds up recovery.

How do I relieve wisdom tooth pain?

When wisdom teeth start to grow through the jawbone and emerge through the gum line, they can become inflamed or bleed, leading to headaches or tooth pain. Here are some remedies to relieve wisdom tooth pain:

  1. Rinse with salt water
  2. Use peppermint essential oils or clove oil to soothe the pain
  3. Take aspirin or an over-the-counter pain reliever
  4. Apply an ice pack or heating pad to your cheeks

More Questions?

If you have more questions about wisdom teeth removal or want to schedule an appointment, please give us a call and we will be happy to discuss further.