Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars)
Third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are most commonly removed during the teenage years, however removal can occur at any age. Third molars are the teeth that are located directly behind your second (12 year) molars and are commonly not visible in your mouth due to them being impacted as in the x-ray below. The removal of third molars is done very comfortably in an office setting with varying levels of sedation. After your procedure, you will be given written post operative instructions regarding the care of your mouth following your procedure.
Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
 | Pain. As your wisdom teeth develop they can push forward on your other teeth and tissue causing pain. |
| Pericoronitis. If your wisdom tooth/teeth partially erupt into your mouth, they can become covered by a small flap of tissue. This flap of tissue can trap food and debris and cause a localized area of inflammation and/or infection overlying the tooth. If this occurs, you may be placed on antibiotics prior to the removal of the tooth depending on the severity of the situation. Ultimately, the only cure for this is to have tooth removed. |
| Abscess. A wisdom tooth can become abscessed just like any other tooth in your mouth due to decay, pericoronitis (as described above), or an associated cyst. |
| Cysts and Tumors. Impacted wisdom teeth can be associated with some cysts and benign tumors. These cysts and tumors cause severe bone resorption in the jaws over time. The most commonly associated cysts are dentigerous cysts and odontogenic keratocysts. Less commonly a benign tumor known as an ameloblastoma can occur. |
| Periodontal disease. You can have a localized area of bone loss in between your wisdom tooth and the tooth in front of it. The most common cause of this would be difficulty cleaning the area which leads to inflammation and ultimately bone loss. If the wisdom tooth is not removed in time, you may risk loosing the adjacent tooth as well. |
| Orthodontics (braces). Your dentist or orthodontist may request that you have your third molars removed prior to starting braces. This will make moving your teeth easier in certain situations. |
| Fillings or crowns. Your dentist may require you to have your third molars removed if they will interfere with the placement of a restoration (filling) or a crown. |
Prior to having your third molars removed, it is advised that you come in to the office for an initial consultation appointment first. You will have questions regarding the procedure as well as financial questions that cannot be answered appropriately over the phone. During this appointment you will meet Dr. Hornaday and his staff, discuss the procedure and sedation, and also discuss financial and insurance arrangements. To set up an appointment, please call our office at (765) 289-9705 and we will be glad to assist you.