Wisdom Teeth Removal in Round Rock, TX

Removing Third Molars

Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth are the final set of adult teeth to develop, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 21. However, the average adult mouth does not have enough space for these extra teeth, which can pose potential problems. Because of this, dentists and oral surgeons often recommend the extraction of wisdom teeth. By removing the teeth before they erupt, this removal can prevent a range of complications including inflamed gum tissue, dental crowding, and damage to adjacent teeth among other things.

Dr. Weber is a board-certified oral surgeon who possesses extensive experience and training wisdom teeth extraction who works together with his skilled and welcoming staff at Round Rock Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. If you need wisdom teeth extracted, contact our office in Round Rock, TX to set up an appointment.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Factors, like how large wisdom teeth are and where their positions are, help determine whether or not they should be extracted. Some individuals may not experience problems with wisdom teeth. More often than not, however, most cases require removal. Preferably, wisdom teeth are removed during the mid-teen years because younger patients’ third molars are less developed, making them easier to extract. These patients typically recover faster as well. However, adults can still have their wisdom teeth extracted.

Routine dental checkups with your dentist allow them to monitor the growth and development of your wisdom teeth. If they determine that removal is necessary, they’ll refer you to an oral surgeon. If you notice any symptoms of problems caused by wisdom teeth, we recommend scheduling a consultation with us to determine whether removal is necessary.

Sign & Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth

Many of the symptoms people experience that indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction include:

• Bad Breath: When wisdom teeth are impacted, or don’t fully erupt, they can create pockets for bacteria to build up and lead to a persistent unpleasant taste in your mouth or bad breath, despite consistent brushing.
• Difficulty Opening the Mouth: When wisdom teeth cause misalignment and overcrowding, it can limit jaw movement, making it difficult, or even painful, to open your jaw.
• Swollen or Tender Gums: Impacted or erupting wisdom teeth can trigger swollen or tender gums. Flossing may become harder due to inflammation in that area.
• Pain and Discomfort: Often, one of the first signs that wisdom teeth might need to be removed is sharp, intermittent pain, or constant throbbing that extends to the jaw, ears, and neck.
• Sinus Pain: Wisdom teeth in the upper jaw can exert pressure on sinuses, creating congestion, headaches, and other sinus pain. Sometimes, these symptoms are mistaken for a sinus infection, underscoring the importance of consulting an oral surgeon to receive an accurate diagnosis.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery

When you visit us for the first time, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Weber, a board-certified oral surgeon specializing in wisdom teeth removal. During this appointment, he will perform an oral exam, review your medical history, and learn more about the symptoms you are experiencing. This appointment is also a great opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.

On the day of your surgery, you’ll receive anesthesia—which will be chosen at your consultation— to make sure you are comfortable during your procedure. Typically, we use IV sedation for wisdom teeth extractions to create a sleep-like state. Often, patients can’t remember the procedure when they wake up.

If your wisdom teeth have erupted, the doctor will use forceps to extract the tooth, making the surgery swift and straightforward. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or below the gum line, the doctor will make an incision in the gym to access and remove the tooth. Following the procedure, the incisions will be closed with sutures to ensure proper healing.

Post-surgery, you will receive detailed recovery instructions to promote a seamless healing process. This care includes taking any prescribed pain medication, attending to the surgical sites, and preventing a dry socket. A dry socket is a painful condition that may occur if the blood clot in the socket is dislodged.

While recovery time varies, most patients resume normal activities within a few days. You can expect some discomfort after the procedure, but this can be managed with proper rest, ice packs, and by taking pain medication as directed by your oral surgeon.