Most people get their wisdom teeth when they’re in their late teens or early twenties. At Pediatric Dental Center, we help our young patients with their wisdom teeth issues.
Why are wisdom teeth often extracted?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth, sometimes referred to as “third molars,” need to be extracted.
- Wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth and nerves.
- Most jaws (both teenagers’ and adults’) don’t have room for extra molars. If they are allowed to come in, they may be crooked. This crowds the other teeth and impacts the bite.
- Partially- or fully-erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean. This increases the risk of decay. And awkwardly-positioned wisdom teeth can cause an infection if bacteria is trapped under the skin where it’s problematic to brush and floss.
Because of the potential problems, we often recommend extraction.
What should you expect after wisdom teeth extraction?
Bleeding is inevitable with all tooth extractions. It may last up to three days. Rinsing is counterproductive.
Apply firm pressure to the extraction site by biting down on the gauze pads to help stop the bleeding.
Swelling following extraction is a sign that the healing process is progressing normally. Swelling that recedes and then re-appears after a few weeks, however, is a sign of infection. If this happens, it is important that you communicate with us ASAP.
We will schedule an exam seven to ten days after the extraction to make sure the wounds are clean and there are no complications. An antibiotic wash may be used to prevent or treat infection.
At the Pediatric Dental Center in Burlington our services include tooth extraction, as well as pediatric dentistry. We have offices in Burlington, Cold Spring and Crestview Hills KY. Call us to schedule an appointment for your child today!
Contact Pediatric Dental Center:
859-534-5640
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
5495 N Bend Rd Ste 102
Burlington, Kentucky
41005
