Wisdom Teeth Removal

Jose L. Guzman, DDS -  - Dentist

Guzman Dental

Jose L. Guzman, DDS

Dentist located in Chula Vista, CA

The majority of people don’t have enough room for their wisdom teeth — or third molars — to erupt. In most cases, you need a dentist’s intervention to have these teeth removed. If you live in Chula Vista, California, and have concerns about your wisdom teeth, contact experienced dentist Dr. Jose Guzman at Guzman Dental. Call the office or book an appointment online to have him evaluate your wisdom teeth and determine whether you need them removed.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Q & A

What are wisdom teeth?

Your wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that come in usually when you’re between the ages of 17 and 21. These teeth are designed to help you chew, but most people’s jaws don’t have enough room for wisdom teeth to come through properly.

They may crowd your existing teeth, erupt in a crooked position, only erupt partially, or stay impacted and cause pain inside your gums. When they’re impacted, it means they’re trapped inside your gum line or jaw.

What indicates I need my wisdom teeth removed?

As your wisdom teeth erupt, it can cause mild soreness. If you experience pain, however, consult Dr. Guzman immediately. Other immediate signs your wisdom teeth need removal include:

  • Infection or cysts
  • Damage to neighboring teeth
  • Gum disease
  • Tooth decay

X-rays often reveal problems with your wisdom teeth before they arise. If Dr. Guzman notices any of the following, he may recommend they be removed before they break through the surface of your gums:

  • Too little room for them to come through without crowding your existing teeth
  • Partial eruption
  • Wisdom teeth in the wrong position

How are impacted wisdom teeth removed?

Dr. Guzman removes impacted wisdom teeth in a minor surgical procedure. You receive local anesthesia and a mild sedative to help you relax. Dr. Guzman makes an incision in your gum to access the teeth and remove them. He stitches the area back up and sends you home with clear instructions to facilitate quick healing.

What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?

If you don’t remove your wisdom teeth, it’s possible you could negatively affect the health of your existing teeth. Plus, you may develop an abscess or infection at the site of eruption if the tooth just can’t poke through. Wisdom teeth often come in sideways, which encourages food to get caught and decay nearby teeth.

In some cases, you have enough room in your mouth and your wisdom teeth come in just fine. But, you should always monitor their health because they always have the potential to cause problems in the future. Because of their position, wisdom teeth are harder to floss and brush thoroughly, so they’re more susceptible to decay and infection.

If you have your wisdom teeth, or they’re about to erupt, contact Dr. Guzman to have them evaluated and possibly removed to preserve your overall oral health. Call his office or book an appointment online today.