For the 65 percent of adults who detect wisdom teeth in their late teens or early twenties, Marcos Ortega DDS generally recommends removal. Wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth and nerves. Their awkward positioning can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Furthermore, they often come in crooked, crowding the other teeth and affecting the bite.
Wisdom teeth are also difficult to clean, especially if they do not fully erupt, which is a common problem for many people. This can cause an infection, as bacteria can be trapped under the skin where brushing and flossing is difficult.
After removal, Marcos Ortega DDS recommends wisdom teeth extraction patients carefully follow the instructions given.
Bleeding is inevitable and should be expected to last up to three days. Rinsing is counter-productive, but firm pressure should be applied by biting down on the gauze pads to help stop the bleeding.
Swelling following wisdom teeth extraction is a sign that the healing process is progressing normally. Swelling that recedes and then re-appears after a few weeks, however, is a sign of infection. If this happens, you must talk to us ASAP.
Dr. Ortega recommends an examination seven to ten days after the extraction to make sure the wounds are clean and there are no complications. An antibiotic wash can be applied if infection is present.
Keep in mind that many troubles can be avoided if the patient has his or her wisdom teeth removed when Dr. Ortega advises. This is a case where a ‘let’s wait and see’ approach can cause problems.
Contact Marcos Ortega DDS:
619-295-4545
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
306 Walnut Ave Ste 25
San Diego, California
92103