Even though wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed, Bellevue dentist Dr. Yu may recommend a wisdom tooth extraction when it will help to ease any pain you are experiencing, or reduce the risk of misalignment. If a wisdom tooth has become impacted and is left untreated, it may end up contributing to infection in the mouth, damage nearby teeth, and possibly cause some type of cyst or tumor.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure
Our dentists will perform a thorough examination to determine the position of the wisdom teeth and any risk of future problems with the tooth. He typically takes x-rays to determine the level of decay or deterioration of nearby teeth. In most cases, the extraction is performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia.
To remove the tooth, the dentist will open up the gum tissue that is covering the tooth and take out any bone tissue that may be on top of the tooth. He can then separate the tissue connecting the tooth to the bone for easy removal of the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be cut into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After the tooth is removed, you may need dissolvable stitches that may need to be removed within a a few days. You will need to keep a cotton gauze pad over the wound to control the bleeding.
Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Some of the key reasons to have your wisdom teeth removed, include:
- Impacted teeth that have been unable to break through the gums
- Serious infection or damage to other teeth
- A broken tooth that is allowing food and bacteria to become trapped around the gums
- Infection of the tooth or gum disease
- Crowding of the teeth
If you are having problems with your wisdom teeth and are ready for an extraction procedure, set up your appointment with Bellevue dentists Dr. Yu by calling 425-453-9999 today!
