Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically making their appearance in your late teens or early twenties. While some individuals may have no issues with their wisdom teeth, for many, these late arrivals can cause significant dental problems. Overcrowding, impaction, and misalignment are common issues, making wisdom tooth extraction a necessary procedure for long-term oral health. At Simply Wellness Dental in Burnaby, BC, Dr. Vik Sharma and his team specialize in gentle and effective Wisdom Tooth Extractions to help maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be extracted, even if they aren’t causing discomfort at first. These molars tend to grow in a crowded mouth, leading to complications such as:
- Impaction: Often, wisdom teeth do not have enough room to emerge fully, leading them to become impacted or stuck beneath the gum line. This can cause pain, swelling, and infections.
- Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth may push against existing teeth, disrupting the alignment of your smile. This can interfere with orthodontic treatments or cause your teeth to shift, undoing years of corrective dental work.
- Infection and Decay: When wisdom teeth only partially erupt, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria. The hard-to-reach area at the back of your mouth can become a haven for plaque and debris, leading to cavities, gum disease, and infections.
- Cyst Formation: In some cases, a cyst can form around a wisdom tooth, potentially damaging the roots of nearby teeth or the jawbone itself.
Addressing these issues early is critical, and Simply Wellness Dental in Burnaby offers expert wisdom tooth extractions to prevent future complications. Whether you’re experiencing pain or your dentist recommends preemptive removal, our team ensures a smooth, comfortable process.
What Happens During a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
At Simply Wellness Dental, we understand that the idea of having teeth removed can cause anxiety. That’s why we offer a compassionate and gentle approach to make your experience as stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect during a wisdom tooth extraction:
- Consultation and Imaging: The process begins with a comprehensive exam, including X-rays, to determine the position of your wisdom teeth. This helps our team assess the complexity of the extraction and identify any potential issues, such as impaction or nerve proximity.
- Anesthesia Options: To ensure your comfort during the procedure, Dr. Vik Sharma offers various sedation options, from local anesthesia to more advanced sedation techniques for patients with dental anxiety. You’ll be completely numb, and if necessary, fully relaxed during the entire procedure.
- Extraction Procedure: For a simple extraction, where the tooth has fully emerged, Dr. Sharma will carefully loosen the tooth and remove it. If the tooth is impacted or hasn’t fully erupted, a small incision in the gum may be necessary, and the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to facilitate removal.
- Post-Extraction Care: After the extraction, Simply Wellness Dental provides thorough aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications like dry socket. Swelling and discomfort are normal for the first few days, and we recommend sticking to soft foods and avoiding strenuous activities.
If you’re experiencing pain from your wisdom teeth or have been advised to remove them preemptively, don’t wait. Our team at Simply Wellness Dental is here to provide expert care tailored to your needs. Visit our Wisdom Tooth Extraction page for more information and to book your consultation.
Aftercare: Promoting a Smooth Recovery
Recovery from a wisdom tooth extraction typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Here are some key aftercare tips to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Rest: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours after your extraction. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process.
- Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid anything crunchy, chewy, or too hot that could irritate the extraction site.
- Ice and Pain Management: Applying ice packs to the outside of your jaw can help reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain medications, as prescribed by your dentist, can manage discomfort during the healing process.
- Avoid Smoking and Straws: Both smoking and using straws can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket, where the blood clot in the socket becomes dislodged. It’s best to avoid these activities for at least a week after the procedure.
At Simply Wellness Dental, we provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure that your recovery is smooth and complication-free. If you have any concerns or experience unexpected symptoms, our team is always available to provide support.
Why Choose Simply Wellness Dental for Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Choosing the right dental team for your wisdom tooth extraction is essential for a comfortable experience and a smooth recovery. At Simply Wellness Dental, we pride ourselves on our patient-focused approach, ensuring that each individual receives the personalized care they deserve. With years of experience in oral surgery and extractions, Dr. Vik Sharma is dedicated to making every procedure as pain-free as possible.
Our clinic offers a wide range of services beyond wisdom tooth extractions, including Invisalign, Cleaning & Prevention, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement, and more. Whether you’re visiting us for routine care or a more complex procedure, you can trust that you’re in expert hands.
Contact Simply Wellness Dental Today
If you’re in need of a wisdom tooth extraction or any other dental services, Simply Wellness Dental is here for you. Conveniently located at 488 Gamma Ave, Burnaby, BC V5C 0J7, Canada, we proudly serve the Burnaby area and beyond, including Country Club, Lathrop, Manteca, and Tracy.
To schedule your appointment, give us a call at 604-423-3737, or visit our website at Simply Wellness Dental. You can also find us on Google Maps for directions to our clinic. We’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, happy smile.
