Wisdom Teeth Removal in Forney, TX

By age 18, the average adult has 32 teeth; 16 on the top and 16 on the bottom. The teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors, canine, and bicuspid) are ideal for grasping and biting food into smaller pieces. The back teeth (molars) are used to grind food into a consistency suitable for swallowing.

The average mouth is made to hold only 28 teeth. It can be painful when 32 teeth try to fit in a mouth that holds only 28 teeth. The four other teeth are your third molars, also known as “wisdom teeth.”

To learn more about our high-quality, affordable wisdom teeth removal in Forney, TX, please schedule an appointment with us and speak to Dr. Gibbins or Dr. Draper about any questions you may have. We will happily assist you!

x-ray of Wisdom Teeth

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

The last set of adult teeth to erupt is your wisdom teeth. They are referred to as third molars and are located right at the back of your mouth, on your top and bottom jaw. Many people never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, but several may experience pain if they become partially or fully impacted in their jawbone and gums. If your wisdom teeth are causing any discomfort or pain, they would likely need to be removed.

Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly, and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully.

These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they partially erupt, the opening around the teeth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth. 

The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom teeth, destroying the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

With an exam and x-rays, Dr. Draper or Dr. Gibbins can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and recognize any existing issues. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome. Patients are generally first evaluated in their mid-teen years by their dentist, orthodontist, or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Dr. Draper and Dr. Gibbins have the training, license, and experience to provide these types of anesthesia for patients.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

In most cases, wisdom teeth are removed under local anesthesia and general anesthesia. Anesthesia and the surgical risks (i.e., sensory nerve damage and sinus complications) will be discussed with you before the procedure. 

You will rest under supervision in our office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, your postoperative kit will include postoperative instructions, a prescription for pain medication, and antibiotics, and one of our staff members will discuss your performance care and instructions with your driver. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us.

We provide an environment of optimum safety that utilizes modern monitoring equipment and a team that is experienced in anesthesia techniques.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

If your wisdom teeth are causing pain and discomfort, it may worsen if left untreated. If you don’t treat the problem, further complications could arise:

  • Gum and jaw infection
  • Impacted teeth
  • Pain
  • Cysts

Start Your Smile Journey Today in Forney, TX

If you want to learn more about our high-quality, affordable wisdom teeth removal, give us a call or schedule a consultation today! Our friendly staff will happily assist you. We look forward to meeting you and starting your smile journey together!