If you have impacted wisdom teeth or molars that have already come through, you may need wisdom tooth removal to keep your mouth healthy and disease-free. Lyle C. Yanagihara DDS, MS is a Honolulu, HI, oral surgeon and recommends making an appointment with your provider to evaluate your need for this procedure.

The risk of ignoring impacted wisdom teeth can include infections, cyst, or damage to the jaw and neighboring teeth. To learn more about removal, what to expect from the process, and why it is important to address the matter with your oral surgeon, read the guide below. 

Wisdom Tooth Removal FAQ

What Are Wisdom Teeth? 

Wisdom teeth are your third set of molars—they often break through between 17 and 25 years of age. (A time when one gains their wisdom, thus called wisdom teeth) Some people do not have any, while others will develop a full set of four. 

Why Do Patients Need It? 

Some patients require wisdom tooth extraction to create necessary space for the teeth within the jaw. Without the procedure, some patients may experience inflammation of the oral cavity, gum disease, infection, cysts, or tumors. A skillful oral surgeon can eliminate these issues and improve your oral health. 

What Can I Expect From the Procedure? 

Once your oral surgeon determines you have impacted or erupted wisdom teeth, they will decide if extraction is necessary. If it is, a same day or follow-up appointment will be scheduled to remove one or more teeth. You will receive local anesthesia to numb the area. Depending on your needs, you may also choose anesthesia to let you sleep during the procedure or “laughing gas,” a form of nitrous oxide that helps you relax. 

The type of treatment you and your oral surgeon decide on will affect the amount of time you spend in the office for aftercare. In most cases, you will need a ride home from a friend or family member. 

What Can I Expect After the Procedure? 

You will likely experience some swelling for a few days after as well as pain. Talk to your doctor about how you can keep inflammation to a minimum. 

To make an appointment to discuss wisdom tooth removal, call Lyle C. Yanagihara DDS, MS in Honolulu, HI, at (808) 973-1433. For more information about their quality and affordable services, visit their website.