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| The last molar to erupt in the back of the upper and lower jaws is called the wisdom tooth or 3rd molar. Most people have a full set of four wisdom teeth, but the number can vary. These teeth usually appear around ages 16 to 18, hence the name “wisdom teeth” or coming of knowledge or age. |
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| Most people do not have enough room for these teeth, which are the last permanent teeth to develop. It is very important to have a screening, Panorex x-ray (which shows all the bony jaw structures) to determine how the wisdom teeth are developing and if there are underlying problems present such as: |
| • Crowding |
| • Infection |
| • Damage to adjacent teeth |
| • Cysts |
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| • Impaction/ tooth stuck in jawbone |
| • Impendence of orthodontic treatment |
| • Interference with dental work (implants, crowns, etc.) |
| • Periodontal disease |
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| Recent research studies have linked wisdom teeth as a breeding ground for oral bacteria since the area is very difficult to keep clean by patients, dental hygienists, and even dentists. |
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| Research supports that the chronic inflammation from the third molars can affect the whole body especially in the development or progression of diseases such as heart attack, diabetes, and stroke. In pregnant women, the inflammation may contribute to low birth weight in babies. |
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| Why don’t wisdom teeth have enough room to erupt into the mouth? Current research studies point to the fact that our modern diet does not cause wear and attrition of our teeth. When the teeth wear down, they tend to drift forward allowing more space in the jaw. Our modern, stronger teeth typically prevent this from happening. |
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| After the x-ray and clinical exam, the risks and benefits of removal are discussed for each individual patient’s case. Dr. Satko will only remove wisdom teeth if she feels it is necessary and the benefits outweigh the risk.Early removal is usually easier. However, because everyone’s situation is unique, Dr. Satko evaluates each patient according to his or her wants and needs. |
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| All surgery has risks. Dr. Satko will discuss each individual case with any probable complications and what to expect after surgery. Some generalized risks and complications are: |
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| • Swelling, bruising, jaw stiffness |
| • Dry sockets (most common in smokers). |
| • Infections (antibiotics usually prescribed if needed). |
| • Sinus problems (treated with medications and sinus precautions). |
| • Nerve injury. Sometimes, persistent numbness/tingling, pain or loss of taste can occur. This is usually temporary. |
| • Weakening of the jaw leading to fracture. This is a very rare complication seen in extremely deep impactions. |
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| The surgery usually takes from sixty to ninety minutes, allowing for patient recovery from anesthesia. Dr. Satko usually recommends an intravenous sedation to ease anxiety. This requires a six-hour fast (no food and no water) and a competent adult to drive the patient home. Any regular medications should be taken with a small sip of water. Dr. Satko will have a discussion with you if any medications (such as blood thinners) need to be discontinued prior to surgery. |
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| In addition to the individual instructions about caring for your mouth, some general instructions are: |
| • Control bleeding by biting on gauze for 45 minutes; bleeding may occur after eating, yawning or exercise. Oozing of blood into the saliva is normal, but any bright red blood that cannot be controlled with pressure, should be addressed immediately by a doctor. |
| • Take all medications prescribed as directed |
| • Clear liquids, soft and cool food should be eaten. Avoid hot food and liquid for the first 24 to 48 hours. Keep ice on face to reduce swelling. |
| • No smoking. |
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| • No drinking thru a straw for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. |
| • Keep head elevated, no strenuous activity for 3-5 days. |
| • Keep extraction sites protected by very gentle rinses with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz. of warm water, starting the next day. |
| • Dr. Satko and staff see all patients 7-14 days after surgery to give oral hygiene instruction (safe to rinse), check healing, and answer any question. |
| • The sockets start to close over after 1-2 weeks and complete bone will fill in over the next 3-4 months. |
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