Wisdom Teeth Removals in OK!

Removing wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure and is often done whether or not there are problems with these molars or the other teeth near them.  If you are currently experiencing unusual pain, discomfort or swelling in the area where your wisdom teeth are—or where they will appear—then it is important that you see us at the Dental Arts as soon as possible. That way any problems can be taken care of for you right away.  We’re here to help you and answer all your questions about wisdom teeth removal and the other dental services we provide!

What Exactly Are Wisdom Teeth?

“Wisdom teeth” is the name given to the last set of permanent molars that don’t come in until young adulthood for most people.  They usually don’t make their appearance until the late teens and early 20s—perhaps when a person is considered older and “wiser.” 


A wisdom tooth is a type of molar and makes up the third set of permanent molars at the back of the mouth. The molars are important for chewing and grinding food as part of the first step in the digestive process. Without molars, our bodies would have a much harder time getting the nutrition we need out of our food!

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When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?

Not all people grow wisdom teeth, and those that do sometimes only have one or two rather than all four. Some people’s wisdom teeth come in, or “erupt,” through the gums with no apparent problems while others experience different issues requiring their wisdom teeth be extracted.


Some complications calling for the removal of impacted wisdom teeth include:

  • Tooth Decay

    When the tooth does not have enough room to fully erupt, it remains partially covered by the gums. This can make the tooth hard to clean and, when food particles get trapped, it can lead to bacteria growing which can infect the gums and cause cavities.  This can become so severe that a root canal would be necessary to save the tooth. 

  • Cysts and Jaw Damage

     If a wisdom tooth remains under the gums rather than erupting, it will remain in the sac in the jaw where it grows. A cyst can form in this sac which will lead to swelling and possible damage to the jaw bone itself as well as the roots of nearby teeth. Surgical extractions are frequently necessary in this case.

  • Crowding of Other Teeth

     The wisdom teeth may push up against the adjacent teeth, negatively affecting their alignment for biting and chewing. This can require braces or other orthodontic procedures to remedy. Another problem with impacted wisdom teeth crowding nearby teeth is it makes it more difficult to properly brush and floss.  If you’re not able to fully clean between your teeth, there can be an increased chance of getting cavities and suffering gum disease.

Wisdom Tooth Removal for Preventative Reasons

Even when wisdom teeth erupt with no apparent issues, you should speak with a dentist and get a thorough examination.  It is possible that issues concerning the alignment of your teeth and bite or the health of your gums could arise in the future.  We want to help you avoid the necessity of emergency dentistry whenever possible; a consultation now could prevent painful complications later.

What Should I Expect in the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure done by two methods:

Clean tooth icon

Simple Extractions:

This is when the tooth has fully or almost fully erupted from the gums.  This often only requires a local anesthetic—an injection to make the area around the tooth numb—and then your dentist uses tools to lift and remove the tooth.

Surgical Tooth Icon

Surgical Extractions:

This procedure requires surgery because the tooth lies submerged, partially or fully, below the gumline. In this case, your dentist or oral surgeon will need to cut into the gums to expose the tooth and remove it.

Clean tooth icon

Simple Extractions:

This is when the tooth has fully or almost fully erupted from the gums.  This often only requires a local anesthetic—an injection to make the area around the tooth numb—and then your dentist uses tools to lift and remove the tooth.

Surgical Tooth Icon

Surgical Extractions:

This procedure requires surgery because the tooth lies submerged, partially or fully, below the gumline. In this case, your dentist or oral surgeon will need to cut into the gums to expose the tooth and remove it.

Afterwards you may have some soreness or pain which can be relieved with the use of an ice pack and/or a pain medication for a day or two.  Your dentist will also discuss what you should do to ensure your recovery is as fast as possible and the area heals properly. 

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Great question!  The only way to determine that is by giving us a call and scheduling a consultation.  A caring and skilled professional on our team at the Dental Arts can look at your specific situation and go over all the options and details. 

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