Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25
Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25
Wisom teeth are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. The term “wisdom” stems from the idea that the molars surface at a time typically associated with increased maturity or “wisdom”.
In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.
There are several types, or degrees, of impaction based on the actual depth of the teeth within the jaw.
The upper portion of the tooth (the crown) has penetrated through the bone, but the gingiva (gum) is covering part or all of the tooth’s crown and has not positioned properly around the tooth. Because it is difficult to keep the area clean, food can become trapped below the gum and cause an infection and/or tooth decay, resulting in pain and swelling.
The tooth has partially erupted, but a portion of the crown remains submerged below the gum and surrounding jawbone. Again, because it is difficult to keep the area clean, infection will commonly occur.
The tooth is completely encased by jawbone. This will require more complex removal techniques.
Dental implants are a surgical solution to missing teeth that entails installing a titanium anchor point into the jawbone from which an artificial crown can be permanently secured.
Using premium biocompatible materials, the titanium implant will actually fuse to the bone as it heals, creating a new and enduring artificial root. A custom built crown will then be screwed into the implant, permanently replacing the missing tooth. We use the highest quality materials for our North Hollywood dental implants so that your new smile will be seamless and stronger than ever.
While not all wisdom teeth require removal, wisdom teeth extractions are most often performed because of an active problem such as pain, swelling, decay or infection, or as a preventative measure to avoid serious problems in the future.
If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present, and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur, including.
As with any dental procedure, your dentist will want to initially conduct a thorough examination of the wisdom and surrounding teeth.
Panoramic or digital X-rays will be taken in order for your dentist to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if a current problem exists, or the likelihood of any potential future problems.
The X-rays can also expose additional risk factors, such as deterioration or decay of nearby teeth. Early evaluation and treatment (typically in the mid-teen years) is recommended in order to identify potential problems and to improve the results for patients requiring wisdom teeth extractions. Only after a thorough examination can your dentist provide you with the best options for your particular case.
The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be released with post-operative instructions and medication (if necessary), to help manage any swelling or discomfort.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, generally performed under:
To receive a consultation, request your appointment online and schedule your visit during one of the select times our dentists in North Hollywood have set aside exclusively for Web visitors.
12840 Riverside Drive, Suite 508
Valley Village, CA 91607
