Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the very back of your mouth. They don’t always need to be removed, but they can cause problems if they are not growing in properly. We provide advanced state-of-the-art oral surgery and wisdom teeth removal.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Selah, WA
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and can often lead to oral health issues. Dr. Michael McKay, an experienced wisdom teeth doctor in Selah, WA, understands the complexities surrounding these final molars.
Wisdom teeth pain can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Common symptoms include throbbing or aching sensations in the back of the mouth, jaw stiffness, difficulty opening the mouth fully, and swelling around the affected area.
Whether your wisdom teeth have already erupted or require assessment through X-ray imaging, Dr. McKay can provide thorough examinations to determine if removal is necessary. Depending on the situation, general anesthesia may be recommended, particularly if multiple wisdom teeth need extraction.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect issues with your wisdom teeth. We accept most major insurance providers and are here to support your oral health journey. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.
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How do I know if my wisdom teeth need removed?
While every patient is different, there are some common signs that indicate the need to have your wisdom teeth removed. These signs include:
- Impaction, i.e., if the tooth is stuck under the gums or is completely hidden. If wisdom teeth aren’t able to emerge normally, they can become trapped within your jaw which can result in infection or cause a cyst that can damage other teeth or roots.
- Changing bite alignment—wisdom teeth can grow at various angles in the jaw, sometimes horizontally, this can cause a change in your bit alignment.
- Crowding or damage to existing teeth caused by wisdom teeth not having enough room to come in properly.
- Emerging only partially—if your wisdom teeth are only partially emerged through the gums it can cause a magnet for bacteria that can cause gum disease and oral infection.
Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth at an early age before the roots and bone are fully formed, and when recovery is faster.
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How do I relieve wisdom tooth pain?
As wisdom teeth grow up through your jawbone and begin to break through your gum line, they may become inflamed or bleed. This can cause headaches or tooth pain. Here are some remedies to relieve wisdom tooth pain:
- Rinse with saltwater
- Use peppermint essential oils or clover oil to soothe pain
- Take aspirin or an over-the-counter pain reliever
- Apply an ice pack or heating pad to your cheeks
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How long does it take to heal after wisdom teeth removal?
For most patients, it takes anywhere between 4 days and 2 weeks to heal from the procedure. During this time, you may experience swelling and pain and should ensure that you are getting plenty of rest to quicken the healing process. There are things that can lengthen the healing process, such as smoking, using straws, and not keeping proper oral hygiene.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about wisdom teeth removal, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
