Wisdom teeth and the different types of extraction
Simple extractions
This type of extraction is performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth, that are not excessively damaged by decay or too broken and that can be extracted without complications. The tooth will then be removed without removing any gum or bone.
Complex extractions
This type of extraction is performed on teeth that may be under the gum line, which have suffered trauma that have significantly deteriorated their structure. The procedure then involves modifying the tissue and bone around the tooth in order to be able to extract it.
What can be the reasons for extracting a tooth?
What can be the reasons for extracting a tooth?
- Tooth decay that has destroyed the structure of the tooth
- Trauma like an impact on the tooth
- An infection that destroys the tooth or the bone that holds it such as periodontitis
- A crowding, there is not enough room for all your teeth
- A tooth structure that is not sufficient to have a restoration or a crown
- The persistence of a primary tooth after the eruption of an adult tooth
- Failed root canal treatment
- An irrecoverable tooth fracture
How is an extraction done?
- Before performing an extraction, your dentist will first review your medical and dental records. (S)he will take the necessary X-rays to better determine the length, shape and position of the tooth and bone. (S)he will be able to determine the degree of complexity of the treatment and refer you to an oral and maxillofacial specialist if necessary.
- He/she will first proceed with a local anesthesia. Your mouth will remain numb for a few hours after the procedure.
- Your mouth will remain numb for a few hours after the procedure.
- Right after the extraction, your dentist will place a compress and ask you to bite on it to limit bleeding. Pressure should be maintained for 30 min. This technique helps in the formation of a blood clot necessary for good healing. A prescription for medication will be given to you as the case may be. We invite you to consult our section on post-operative advice for more information on this treatment.
Extraction of wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third permanent molars in the tooth series. The four teeth grow last into the permanent dentition. This usually happens between the ages of 18 and 25. However, there are big differences between each individual. For some, the wisdom teeth erupt properly and are positioned in a way they can be useful for chewing. For most however, these teeth will cause complications since they will only manage to erupt partially or in an inadequate position. It is even common for teeth to get stuck under the gum line, between other teeth or in the jaw bone. Rarely, a tumor or cyst may form around these structures. Wisdom teeth are preferably extracted when their roots have not yet reached their full development, so between the ages of 17 to 21. However, there may be times when we need to extract these teeth in older adults. It is recommended to see your dentist regularly in order the best determine the most adequate time to plan the extraction if needed.
What are the indications for extracting wisdom teeth
- Different reasons may be mentioned by your dentist to justify the extraction of one or more wisdom teeth.
- To reduce the risk of cyst formation or infection
- When the position of these teeth in the mouth does not allow access for dental hygiene, which inevitably can cause cavities, inflammation of the gums and pain.
- To avoid damaging neighboring teeth by causing resorptions.
- When the jaws are not wide enough to allow the wisdom teeth to erupt into an alignment that is useful for chewing.
How is the extraction of wisdom teeth performed?
- A first appointment will allow us to see you in consultation to evaluate your medical and dental situation. We will also proceed by taking one or more x-rays as appropriate. A panoramic X-ray or a 3D scan is necessary to evaluate the wisdom teeth and their relationship with the adjacent structures such as the neighboring teeth, the nerves, the sinuses, the gums, the bone… Our secretary will be able to inform you the cost of surgery according to the complexity of the treatment.
- The procedure takes place under local anesthesia and is performed at our clinic. Its duration may vary depending on the complexity of the case. Other than a feeling of pressure around the tooth, there is usually no pain during the surgery. For anxious patients, a sedative (relaxant) may be given before surgery to reduce stress. It is therefore imperative to be accompanied to avoid driving the same day. We invite you to consult our SEDATION section for more information.
- When the extraction procedure is completed, very often resorbable suture threads which disappear gradually between 7 to 14 days will be used. A prescription for painkillers\antibiotics will be given to you if needed.
- Finally, a follow-up appointment will be given to you to ensure that the healing is adequate. Consult the form section for our post-operative advice for the extraction of wisdom teeth.