If you are wondering whether you need a wisdom tooth extraction in Santa Rosa, CA, Vineyard Dental Group can help. Many people don’t have to worry about their wisdom teeth. Either you have plenty of space, and they emerge without issue, or you never develop them. This is an example of evolution in progress. Since our diets no longer rely on tough roots, bark, or nuts, they are no longer needed to chew our food.
Not everyone is so lucky, and their wisdom teeth will develop even though there isn’t space for them. In some cases, your wisdom teeth may become trapped in your gums, leading to infections or cysts that damage your jawbone or destroy the roots of your neighboring teeth.
Other times, your wisdom teeth can push your teeth too close together, which can cause fractures.
Simple extraction vs. surgical extraction
With wisdom teeth, every situation is a little different. Some people may only develop two wisdom teeth, while others have all four. Some patients may have their wisdom teeth pulled after they have emerged, and others may have them removed before they are above the gum line.
A simple extraction is performed once the wisdom teeth have emerged, and it can be done with forceps and a lifter. Recovery time will be much quicker, and you may not need anesthesia for the procedure. A surgical extraction involves cutting into the gum tissue to remove the tooth and its root. Your gums will need to be stitched close, and you will have a longer recovery time. You will also be put under general anesthesia during the procedure.
Sometimes it’s not clear whether or not you will need your wisdom teeth removed. However, there are benefits of removing them at a younger age, before their roots are fully formed into your jawbone. This will cut down on recovery time and may prevent your teeth from shifting around once the wisdom teeth are extracted. Dr. Saeidi will help you understand your options so you can decide the treatment plan that is right for you. Contact us today at (707) 545-0944 to set up an appointment.