The final set of molars to develop, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, often require removal in Sheridan, WY. The molars are difficult for the average patient to identify, making it important to attend a proper examination before they start causing oral health issues.
In rare cases, these third molars can grow in correctly and provide increased chewing and grinding power. However, most patients do not have enough room in their mouth to allow for their proper growth. In these cases, the molars must be removed to avoid complications.
Why is wisdom teeth removal a good idea?
Having third molars removed early is beneficial to your health for a number of reasons. The teeth are difficult to care for, even when they grow in properly because they are located in the very back of the mouth. As more problems result from the growth of these teeth, the more costly and complicated treatment becomes.
Common problems associated with wisdom teeth that you can avoid with removal include
- Bacterial growth, gum disease, and tooth decay
- Dental crowding and tooth misalignment
- Periodontal disease (which is accompanied by tenderness, pain, swelling, and stiffness around the wisdom teeth)
- Cysts and tumors
Dentists are highly trained to detect the presence of third molars before they develop into a problem, which is why we always encourage our patients to attend routine checkups. If your teeth have begun growing in, we recommend scheduling a consultation at our office in Sheridan, WY. You may require removal, even if you don’t notice any symptoms or problems with your mouth. One of our oral surgeons can examine your condition and determine whether the teeth pose a risk to your oral health. Having them removed early tends to result in an easier procedure and recovery.
What does treatment in Sheridan, WY, entail?
Before you can undergo surgery, you must attend a consultation, during which Dr. Bennion, Dr. Boyce, or Dr. Tracy will perform a thorough examination. Your doctor will review your health history and current condition, as well as take X-rays and 3D scans to get the most accurate picture of your teeth. Once your doctor has determined the size and position of your third molars, he can develop a detailed treatment plan.
You will return to our state-of-the-art surgical center in Sheridan, WY, at a later date for your surgical appointment. We provide patients with various choices for anesthesia to ensure they are always comfortable during treatment:
- Local Anesthesia – If you have ever undergone a simple procedure at the dentist, you have likely received local anesthesia. We apply a numbing agent directly to the wisdom teeth surgical site to ensure you feel no pain while remaining conscious during the procedure.
- Nitrous Oxide – More often referred to as laughing gas, this form of sedation is used to calm patients’ nerves before and during surgery. It is administered through a breathing apparatus, and it is usually in combination with local anesthesia.
- IV Anesthesia – For patients who’d like to be unconscious during surgery, IV anesthesia allows them to enter a comfortable, light sleep. We administer medications through an IV and wake you up once the procedure is complete.
Our goal is to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout treatment. Our experienced oral surgeons have undergone extensive training in the safe administration of all forms of anesthesia. If you have any questions about third molars or the removal process at our office in Sheridan, WY, you can contact our team. We are always happy to answer your questions, and we look forward to meeting you.
