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 successfully erupt.

Procedure Snapshot

  1. Perform all outpatient surgery under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. 
  2. Expose the impacted tooth by making an incision in the gum tissue. 
  3. Remove any excess bone that blocks access to the tooth. 
  4. Carefully remove the tooth from the socket and clean the area before placing suture. 

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal?

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

Wisdom Teeth Procedure

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, our doctors can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or may be 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. Our doctors have the training, license and experience to provide various types of anesthesia for patients to select the best alternative.

Wisdom Teeth Removal?

In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under general anesthesia. The surgical risks (i.e., sensory nerve damage, sinus complications), will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. Once the teeth are removed, the gum is sutured. 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 postoperative kit will include postoperative instructions, a prescription for pain medication, and antibiotics. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 479-582-3000.

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

Arkansas Oral & Facial Surgery Center Locations

Springdale

2926 West Huntsville Avenue
Springdale, AR 72762

Phone: 479-582-3000
Fax: 479-927-3085
springdale@arofsc.com

Fayetteville

3996 N. Frontage Road (near the intersection of Joyce and College Blvd)
Fayetteville, AR 72703

Phone: 479-582-3002
Fax: 479-582-2840
fayetteville@arofsc.com