Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure used to address third molars that may cause pain, infection, or crowding. Removing problematic wisdom teeth can help protect your oral health and prevent future dental concerns.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Ottawa
TREATING IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically appear in the late teenage years or early adulthood. While some wisdom teeth grow in normally, others may not have enough space to erupt properly, which can lead to pain, swelling, or infection.
When wisdom teeth become impacted or misaligned, they may place pressure on neighboring teeth or create areas where bacteria can accumulate. In these cases, removal may be recommended to prevent complications and protect long term oral health. Wisdom teeth removal may help:
Prevent Crowding of Nearby Teeth
Reduce the Risk of Infection and Inflammation
Relieve Pain and Jaw Discomfort
Prevent Damage to Surrounding Teeth
Maintain Proper Alignment of The Smile
When Wisdom Teeth Removal May Be Recommended
Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended if the teeth are impacted, partially erupted, or causing discomfort. Impacted wisdom teeth can become trapped beneath the gums or bone, which may lead to swelling, infection, or pressure on nearby teeth.
A dental examination and imaging can help determine the position of the wisdom teeth and whether removal is appropriate. Addressing concerns early may help prevent more serious dental issues in the future. Signs that wisdom teeth may need removal include:
Pain or Swelling in The Back of The Mouth
Difficulty Opening the Jaw Comfortably
Gum Inflammation Around Wisdom Teeth
Infection or Trapped Food Around Partially Erupted Teeth
Pressure on Neighboring Teeth
Frequently Asked Questions
Many patients have questions about wisdom teeth removal and what to expect during the procedure. Below are answers to some common questions about this treatment.
At what age are wisdom teeth usually removed?
Wisdom teeth typically develop during the late teenage years or early twenties. Dentists often evaluate wisdom teeth during this time to determine whether they are likely to erupt properly or if removal may be recommended to prevent future complications.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia to help ensure patient comfort during treatment. After the procedure, some swelling or soreness may occur as the area heals. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions to help manage discomfort and support healing.
How long does recovery take after wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual patient. Many patients begin feeling better within a few days, although complete healing may take longer. Following post treatment instructions carefully can help support a smooth recovery.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not all wisdom teeth require removal. If the teeth grow in properly and do not cause pain or crowding, they may not need to be extracted. Your dentist will evaluate their position and determine whether removal is recommended.
What happens if impacted wisdom teeth are not removed?
Impacted wisdom teeth may lead to problems such as infection, gum inflammation, damage to nearby teeth, or cyst formation. Early evaluation helps determine whether removal is appropriate to avoid these potential complications.
Protect Your Oral Health
If wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or dental concerns, removal may help protect your long term oral health. The team at Ottawa Dental Care can evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend the appropriate treatment.