Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Fresno, CA

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth have earned their nickname because of when they typically make an appearance (in the late teens and early 20s). They are actually just your third set of molars. Although they were important to our ancestors, our diets and lifestyles have changed drastically over the years. As a result, they are often more harmful than helpful now.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not all wisdom teeth have to be removed. There are actually several cases of people keeping their wisdom teeth for their entire lives without issue. However, they generally need to be removed if they cause (or could potentially cause):

• Pain in the back of your mouth behind your molars.
• Swelling, tenderness, pain, and redness inside your mouth.
• Damage to the roots of nearby teeth.

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Whether the wisdom tooth that needs to be removed is trapped underneath the gumline or it has broken through, the first step of the treatment process is the same: numbing your mouth. From there, Dr. Reintjes will take the necessary steps to move your tooth. If it is visible, then he will gently rock the tooth loose until it’s ready to be extracted. If it’s underneath your gums, then he will first make a small incision so he can access the tooth. In both cases, he will tend to the extraction site and provide you with aftercare instructions so you can heal comfortably at home.

Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Plan on relaxing for the rest of the day after surgery. You should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 3 or 4 days. Pay attention to your bleeding. If it lasts longer than a couple of days, call us immediately. You can generally use a painkiller to stay comfortable during your recovery. Be sure to avoid extremely hot foods as well as anything hard or crunchy; you should plan on sticking to soft, nourishing foods that take less effort.