Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Fresno, CA

A Wise Choice for Your Smile

Wisdom tooth extractions in Fresno are common procedures performed on teenagers and young adults between the ages of 17 and 25. Although these third molars don’t erupt until late adolescence or early adulthood, they can cause many serious problems if left untreated. It’s true that some patients do not experience any issues when their wisdom teeth erupt; however, for more, removal is essential. Call our office today to find out how we can create a healthier smile for the future.

Why Choose Shinkawa Dental for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?

  • Calming Dental Sedation Available
  • Dental Team Welcomes Most Traditional Insurance Plans
  • Dentists Ensure Patient Safety & Comfort Throughout the Procedure

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

X-ray of wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth as they are popularly known are also referred to as third molars among dental professionals. Considered “wiser” than other teeth because they erupt much later, there are usually four in total; however, some patients may only have one or two push through the gums. It’s also possible that some individuals may not have any wisdom teeth.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Person holding their wisdom tooth

Once necessary for early civilizations to maintain a nutrient-rich diet, they made it possible for people to eat dense, coarse foods. However, changes in diet and facial structure now make these teeth obsolete. Unfortunately, they continue to form, only creating problems for narrower mouths.

You can expect that our team will recommend wisdom tooth extraction if:

  • The teeth are impacted and pressing against healthy structures
  • There is visible decay that exists on the wisdom teeth
  • Teeth appear misaligned because wisdom teeth are pushing against them
  • Cysts are forming near the affected areas
  • Increased pain caused by partially erupting or impacted wisdom teeth

What to Expect From the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

An impacted wisdom tooth

Wisdom teeth that have partially erupted can be removed with a simple procedure. We will use a dental elevator to lift the tooth from its socket before grasping it with dental pliers. Using a back-and-forth motion, the tooth will detach and break free from the underlying ligaments.

Those teeth that remain impacted (beneath the gumline) must be removed with a surgical procedure. A small incision will be created in the gums to expose the tooth and existing bone. Depending on the growth of nearby bone, we may decide to remove the tooth in sections to minimize further irritation or harm.

Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Man asleep at home with head elevated

It’s important that you allow your mouth to heal properly after wisdom tooth extraction. To do this, you’ll need to:

  • Get plenty of rest when returning home from your appointment
  • Avoid spitting, smoking, or using a straw
  • Avoid strenuous activity for a few days
  • Keep your head elevated while you are sleeping
  • Stay away from hard and crunchy foods – stick to a soft food diet
  • Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed
  • Use clean gauze to minimize bleeding