Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop and emerge into the mouth. They are the furthest back in the mouth and come in behind the second molars between the ages of 17 and 25. Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth to become impacted near Evanston, IL. An impacted wisdom tooth is unable to fully enter the mouth due to insufficient room on the jawline. If left in the mouth, an impacted wisdom tooth can cause unnecessary damage and may cause teeth movement. The pressure caused by the wisdom teeth can also cause more severe issues such as cavities or bone resorption in neighboring teeth. If an infected wisdom tooth is not removed, it may generate a fluid-filled cyst, destroying the jawbone and damaging the surrounding nerves and teeth.
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or severe gum sensitivity near Evanston, IL in the back of your mouth, this may be a sign that your wisdom teeth need to be removed. Although wisdom teeth can remain healthy, they may become impacted if there is not sufficient room on your jawline for them to grow. Dr. Amarante at Way Dental may recommend an extraction if your wisdom teeth have become impacted and are causing discomfort or damage to the surrounding teeth.
When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Amarante, an oral exam and x-rays in Evanston, IL will help your doctor determine whether your wisdom teeth are at risk for infection and require removal. During the procedure, the affected area will be numbed with a local anesthetic for your comfort in Evanston, IL. Depending on your situation, Dr. Amarante might consider additional nitrous oxide (laughing gas) so that you can relax without fear or discomfort. After surgery, you will need a few days of recovery and may have eating restrictions while your mouth heals. Dr. Amarante will prescribe painkillers as needed to help you heal more comfortably.
When the jawline is too crowded for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, they begin to grow in sideways. Impaction can lead to infection, inflammation, and gum disease. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth may cause damage to neighboring teeth. When you schedule a consultation at our virtually painless dental office in Evanston, IL, an oral exam and x-ray will help Dr. Amarante recommend the best method for you. Dr. Amarante has the expertise to have the wisdom teeth removal procedure with local anesthetic without sedation. His gentle approach and high-level training allow you to be comfortable, and he might consider nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for some patients. Dr. Amarante will discuss your options with you and make sure you are comfortable during your dental procedure in Evanston, IL.