Same Day Wisdom Teeth/Extractions

Extractions

You and Dr. Meister may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed. Others may have advanced periodontal disease or are broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth) or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, Dr. Meister will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.

The Extraction Process

At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jawbone, and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.

During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. It is normal to feel pressure during the procedure, however if you feel any pinching, more anesthetic will be added to ensure your comfort.

If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction, please let us know right away.

Sectioning A Tooth

Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can't expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.

Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

• The #1 reason for the loss of a tooth is a missing tooth next to that tooth. That is why anytime a tooth is lost (except in the instance of wisdom teeth removal, or for orthodontic purposes) it is imperative that the missing tooth be replaced. Options for replacing missing teeth include, Implants, Bridges, and Removable Partial Dentures.
• Non-Removable Dental Implants: Implants are the most permanent way to replace missing teeth. Implants can replace single or multiple missing teeth. With proper care, implants have the potential to last a lifetime.
• Non-Removable Bridges: Bridges are a non-removable way to replace single or multiple teeth. Typically, bridges last between 8-15 years. Bridges require that the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth be shaped down to accept the non-removable restoration.
• Removable Partial Dentures: Partial dentures can replace single or multiple teeth. This is the least desirable replacement option because it is removable. Typically, partial dentures need to be replaced after 5 years.

Wisdom Teeth

By the age of 18, the average adult has 32 teeth; 16 teeth on the top and 16 teeth on the bottom. Each tooth in the mouth has a specific name and function. The teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors, canine, and bicuspid teeth) are ideal for grasping and biting food into smaller pieces. The back teeth (molar teeth) are used to grind food up into a consistency suitable for swallowing.

The average mouth is made to hold only 28 teeth. It can be painful when 32 teeth try to fit in a mouth that holds only 28 teeth. These four other teeth are your third molars, also known as "wisdom teeth."

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum, and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to successfully erupt.

These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the teeth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

Oral Examination

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Meister can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or may be future problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated for wisdom teeth removal in the mid-teenage years.

Dr. Meister performs wisdom teeth removal under local anesthetic, oral, or IV sedation. Dr. Meister has the training, license and experience to provide various types of anesthesia for patients to select the best alternative.

Our services are provided in an environment of optimum safety that utilizes modern monitoring equipment and staff who are experienced in anesthesia techniques.