Dr. Gregg Lombardo Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom Teeth


Wisdom Teeth Removal

Our team provides safe and comfortable molar extraction. We strive to be minimally invasive and provide optimum care for the healing process. All outpatient surgery is performed in our state-of-the-art surgery center under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. You’ll be worry-free in the hands of Dr. Lombardo, who is trained, licensed, and experienced in administering various types of anesthesia.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth

“Wisdom teeth” are your third molars. They are the last teeth to erupt within the mouth. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum, and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to successfully erupt.

These poorly positioned, impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, the opening around the teeth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection. The result: swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness. The pressure from the erupting wisdom teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid these worst-case scenarios and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

Oral Examination

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Lombardo can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or potential future problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally evaluated during their adolescent years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon such as Dr. Lombardo.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia), or general anesthesia. These options, as well as the surgical risks (i.e., sensory nerve damage, sinus complications), will be discussed with you before the procedure. Once the teeth are removed, the gum is sutured.

You will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, your postoperative kit will include instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment in one week for suture removal.

If you are ready for wisdom teeth removal or have any questions about the procedure, CONTACT US today.

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