Widsom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to develop. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may not experience issues, many need to have their wisdom teeth removed to prevent future dental complications.

Wisdom teeth removal is often necessary when the teeth are impacted—meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line—causing discomfort, swelling, or infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to crowding or misalignment of other teeth and are prone to decay and gum disease due to difficulty in cleaning them properly.

Common signs that your wisdom teeth may need extraction include pain, swelling, or jaw stiffness. However, not everyone experiences these symptoms, which is why regular dental exams and X-rays are crucial. A qualified oral surgeon in Tulsa, OK, can help determine if extraction is necessary to prevent future issues.

During the wisdom teeth extraction process, your oral surgeon will numb the area with local anesthesia. In more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used to keep you comfortable. The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum, remove any bone that covers the tooth, and then extract the wisdom tooth. The incision is closed with stitches to promote healing.

Post-surgery, it is common to experience swelling, mild pain, and limited jaw movement. These symptoms should subside within a few days. Your Tulsa oral surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Pain after wisdom tooth extraction can be managed with prescribed pain relievers, ice packs to reduce swelling, and adhering to a soft food diet. Avoid using straws and smoking, as these can lead to dry socket, a painful condition caused when the blood clot fails to form or becomes dislodged from the tooth socket.

Most people return to their normal activities within a few days after wisdom teeth removal. However, full healing may take a few weeks. Following the post-operative care instructions provided by your Tulsa oral surgeon will help ensure a quicker recovery.

As with any surgery, there are potential risks associated with wisdom tooth extraction, including infection, nerve damage, or dry socket. However, these risks are minimal with proper care and by following your surgeon's aftercare guidelines.

If local anesthesia is used, you will remain awake but won’t feel pain during the procedure. In more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended so that you will be fully asleep during the surgery.

The cost of wisdom teeth extraction in Tulsa varies based on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is performed in an office or hospital setting. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, particularly if the procedure is deemed medically necessary.

The best time for wisdom teeth removal is usually in the late teens to early twenties. At this age, the roots of the teeth are not fully developed, and the bone is less dense, making the extraction easier and the recovery faster.

After wisdom teeth removal, you should stick to a soft food diet for the first few days. As your comfort improves, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods, typically within a week of the surgery.