7449 East Osborn Road #4 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth
The average adult mouth is designed to hold around 28 teeth comfortably, but most adults end up with 32. The additional four teeth are called wisdom teeth, AKA third molars. The reason that some adults grow wisdom teeth is because throughout evolutionary history, the human jaw has become smaller and smaller. Because of this, the wisdom teeth become blocked or impacted by the other teeth around them. This can become extremely traumatizing. If the wisdom tooth partially erupts, food can get trapped in the tissue surrounding it, which can lead to bacterial growth and possibly serious infection.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth as a Young Adult
By removing wisdom teeth when a patient is a young adult, Dr. Brittain is able to prevent potential healing problems. When a person reaches the age of their mid-thirties, there are much higher risks involved in wisdom teeth removal. The best time to remove wisdom teeth is generally between the ages of fifteen to eighteen.
However, if you are an adult and need to remove your wisdom teeth, there’s no need to worry. Here at Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale, we take extra care to make sure that our adult patients are comfortable and anxiety-free. After a consultation, we will recommend that you continue with your wisdom teeth until intervention is absolutely necessary. When it is necessary to remove your wisdom teeth, Dr. Brittain will recommend a simple and pain-free surgery. Your health is our highest concern.
What to Expect After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction is manageable for most patients, especially when the procedure is performed at the right time and with proper post-operative care. Here is what to keep in mind as you heal:
- Swelling and mild discomfort are normal for the first two to three days — applying an ice pack to the outside of your jaw in intervals will help manage both.
- Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies for the first few days, gradually reintroducing solid foods.
- Avoid straws, smoking, and spitting for at least 72 hours, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket and lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
- Keep the area clean by gently rinsing with warm saltwater after meals, starting the day after your procedure.
- Take medications as directed, whether over-the-counter pain relievers or a
- prescription, staying on top of your medication schedule will make recovery more comfortable.
- Rest for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least three to four days to minimize bleeding and swelling.
- Attend your follow-up appointment so Dr. Brittain can confirm that the extraction sites are healing properly and address any concerns you may have.
Let Dr. Brittain Take Care Of Those Wisdom Teeth
We see patients on a regular basis to remove wisdom teeth. This is a common procedure at Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale. If you are interested in having a consultation, please give us a call at 480-719-6994 or email us.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed when they become impacted, cause pain, crowd other teeth, or increase the risk of infection and gum disease.Is wisdom teeth removal a painful procedure?
The procedure is not painful, as dentists or oral surgeons use local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia to keep you comfortable.How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Most patients recover within 3–5 days, while complete healing may take a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of the extraction.What foods can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup are recommended during the first few days to avoid irritation.Are wisdom teeth always necessary to remove?
No, if wisdom teeth grow in properly and don’t cause problems, they may not need removal. A dentist can evaluate your specific situation.What are the risks of not removing wisdom teeth?
Leaving problematic wisdom teeth untreated can lead to infections, gum disease, tooth decay, cysts, and damage to nearby teeth, making early removal a safer option.