Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, typically emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood. For many individuals, these teeth can cause a variety of oral health issues and may need to be removed. At Oral Surgery + of Baton Rouge, we specialize in the safe and efficient extraction of wisdom teeth to prevent complications and maintain your oral health.

Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed

Wisdom teeth can cause several problems if not properly managed, including:

• Impaction: Wisdom teeth may become trapped in the jaw or gums, failing to emerge properly, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.
• Overcrowding: The eruption of wisdom teeth can push adjacent teeth out of alignment, resulting in crowding and shifting of your existing teeth.
• Decay and Gum Disease: Due to their location, wisdom teeth are harder to clean, making them more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease.
• Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes result in cysts or tumors, which can damage the jawbone and neighboring teeth.

The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process

• Initial Consultation: The process begins with a thorough examination, which may include X-rays or 3D imaging to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the most effective treatment plan.
• Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, we will create a personalized treatment plan that considers your specific needs, anesthesia options, and what to expect during the procedure.
• Anesthesia Options: To ensure your comfort, we offer various anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, sedation, and general anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on your preferences and the complexity of the extraction.
• Surgical Procedure: During the extraction, our skilled surgeons will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. If necessary, the tooth will be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. The surgical site is cleaned, and the incision is sutured.
• Postoperative Care: After the procedure, you will receive detailed instructions on managing pain, swelling, and promoting healing. We will also provide guidance on diet, oral hygiene, and activity restrictions.
• Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and address any concerns, ensuring a smooth recovery and minimizing the risk of complications.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

• Prevents Future Oral Health Issues: Removing problematic wisdom teeth helps avoid pain, infection, and other complications.
• Improves Dental Alignment: Extracting wisdom teeth can help preserve the alignment of your teeth, especially if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
• Reduces Risk of Decay and Gum Disease: Removing wisdom teeth makes it easier to clean your remaining teeth, reducing the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.

At Oral Surgery + of Baton Rouge, we are committed to providing expert care for wisdom teeth extractions. Our experienced team uses advanced techniques and modern technology to ensure your procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible.

If you or a loved one needs an evaluation or extraction of wisdom teeth, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.