Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Up to 5 million Americans undergo wisdom teeth extraction each year, making it one of the most common types of oral surgery. At Cham Dental in Houston, Texas, general and family dentist Nada Alsawaf, DDS, and her team have years of experience performing wisdom teeth extraction in teens and adults. Call Cham Dental today to schedule wisdom teeth extraction for yourself or your child, or book your visit online.

How do I know if I need to undergo wisdom teeth extraction?

The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last of your permanent teeth to come in. Sometimes, all four wisdom teeth break through the gum line without any problems. But more often than not, they come in at an angle or become impacted (blocked by other teeth). 

Because your wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth, they’re also harder to clean and care for. The Cham Dental team might recommend extractions if you’re at risk of infection or more serious oral health problems. 

When should I see a dentist about wisdom teeth extraction?

Make an appointment with the Cham Dental team if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• A cyst (fluid-filled sac) near one or several wisdom teeth
• Pain at the back of your mouth
• Gum disease around your molars
• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Food and debris trapped around or behind your wisdom teeth

The team might recommend extractions as a preventive measure. If your wisdom teeth haven’t come in yet, removing them can help reduce your risk of future problems like tooth decay. 

How do I prepare for wisdom teeth extraction?

Your Cham Dental provider reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and takes 3D cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. The scans provide cross-sectional photos of your mouth, allowing your dentist to see the exact location of your wisdom teeth.

Next, your dentist explains the sedation options available. The Cham Dental team offers nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and general anesthesia. Let your dentist know about the supplements, vitamins, or medicines you’re currently taking. You can also ask any questions you have about the procedure.

What does wisdom teeth extraction involve?

On the day of wisdom teeth extraction, your Cham Dental provider numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and administers oral or IV sedation. 

Your dentist uses handheld tools to access and expose your wisdom teeth. They carefully loosen and lift your teeth from their sockets, clean the surgical sites, and close your incisions with stitches.

It takes several hours for the anesthetic to wear off, so you need to have someone drive you home. 

Call Cham Dental today to schedule a wisdom teeth extraction consultation, or book your visit online.