Wisdom Teeth Removal in Norwich, CT

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop and typically begin to emerge during the late teenage years or early adulthood. While some wisdom teeth develop normally and do not require treatment, others may become impacted, grow at an unfavorable angle, or create problems for the surrounding teeth and gums.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth may be recommended for removal when they are currently causing problems or when their position creates a significant risk for future complications.

Common reasons for wisdom tooth removal include:

• Pain or tenderness
• Swelling around the back of the jaw
• Recurrent gum inflammation or infection
• Partial eruption that makes cleaning difficult
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease around the wisdom tooth
• Damage to a neighboring second molar
• Cysts or other pathology associated with an impacted tooth
• Unfavorable tooth positioning

Because impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes create problems without initially causing noticeable symptoms, an examination and appropriate imaging can help determine whether treatment is necessary.

What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth is a tooth that does not have enough room to erupt normally or is prevented from reaching its proper position.

Some impacted teeth remain completely beneath the gum and bone. Others partially emerge, leaving an area around the tooth that can be difficult to keep clean.

Impaction can occur at different angles and depths. The exact position of the tooth, its relationship to nearby structures, and the amount of surrounding bone can influence the complexity of removal.

Your surgeon will evaluate these factors when developing your treatment plan.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Evaluated?

Wisdom teeth are commonly evaluated during the teenage years and early adulthood as they begin to develop.

However, there is no single age at which every patient should have their wisdom teeth removed.

Some patients may benefit from removal before the teeth are fully developed, while others may be able to keep healthy, properly positioned wisdom teeth.

An evaluation allows your oral surgeon to determine:

• How many wisdom teeth are present
• Whether they are erupted or impacted
• Their direction of growth
• The stage of root development
• Whether surrounding teeth are affected
• Their relationship to nearby anatomical structures
• Whether there are signs of infection or other concerns

The decision to remove wisdom teeth should be based on the individual patient rather than age alone.

What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The procedure varies depending on whether the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, partially erupted, or impacted.

Evaluation & Imaging

Before surgery, your oral surgeon will examine your mouth and review appropriate dental imaging to understand the position of the wisdom teeth and surrounding anatomy.

Anesthesia

Your anesthesia options will be discussed before treatment based on the procedure, your medical history, and your individual needs.

Tooth Removal

A fully erupted wisdom tooth may be removed similarly to another dental extraction.

For an impacted tooth, a small incision may be made in the gum tissue to access the tooth. Depending on its position, a portion of surrounding bone may need to be removed, and the tooth may be divided into smaller sections to allow for controlled removal.

Closure

When necessary, the surgical area may be closed with sutures to support healing.

Your surgeon will provide detailed postoperative instructions before you leave.

Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation

Your first visit allows our team to determine whether wisdom tooth removal is appropriate and what your procedure may involve.

During your evaluation, we may review:

• Your dental and medical history
• Current symptoms
• The number and position of your wisdom teeth
• Dental imaging
• Tooth and root development
• Surrounding teeth and bone
• Relevant nerves and other anatomical structures
• Anesthesia options
• Expected recovery
• Potential risks and complications

You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and understand what to expect before, during, and after treatment.

Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation in Norwich, CT

If you or your child has been referred for wisdom tooth removal, is experiencing discomfort around the back teeth, or would simply like to know whether the wisdom teeth should be monitored or removed, schedule an evaluation with Connecticut Surgical Arts.

Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide wisdom teeth evaluations and surgical care for patients in Norwich, New London, Groton, Mystic, Waterford, East Lyme, and communities throughout Southeast Connecticut.