Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to develop and often do not have enough room to grow into a healthy position. When wisdom teeth become impacted, partially erupted, painful, or difficult to clean, removal may be recommended to protect your oral health.
At Center for Oral Surgery, Dr. Christopher Duplaga provides wisdom teeth evaluations and removal for patients in Wheeling, West Virginia, and throughout the surrounding Ohio Valley. Every treatment plan is based on the position of your wisdom teeth, your symptoms, your overall health, and findings from your examination and imaging.
Our team will explain what we find, discuss whether removal is appropriate, and help you understand what to expect before and after treatment.
Why Wisdom Teeth May Need Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically develop at the very back of the mouth. Some people have enough room for them to erupt normally, while others develop impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth.
When a wisdom tooth does not have enough space to emerge properly, it may grow at an angle, remain beneath the gums, or press against a neighboring tooth. Partially erupted teeth can also be difficult to keep clean.
Wisdom teeth may contribute to:
- Pain or tenderness
- Swelling around the gums
- Repeated infection
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Tooth decay
- Gum problems
- Cysts or other changes around an impacted tooth
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. Dr. Duplaga evaluates each case individually before recommending treatment.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Checked?
Wisdom teeth often begin developing during the teenage years and early adulthood, but there is no single age when everyone should have them removed.
An evaluation allows Dr. Duplaga to examine how the teeth are developing and whether there appears to be enough room for them to erupt normally. Imaging can also show their position in relation to neighboring teeth, bone, nerves, and other surrounding structures.
During your consultation, Dr. Duplaga will review your medical and dental history, examine your wisdom teeth, and discuss whether removal is recommended.
Your dentist or orthodontist may refer you for an evaluation, or you can contact our office directly if you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your wisdom teeth.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
During Treatment
Wisdom teeth removal is planned according to the position and development of each tooth.
Some wisdom teeth are fully erupted and may be relatively straightforward to remove. Impacted teeth may require an incision in the gum tissue and careful removal of surrounding bone or sectioning of the tooth.
Dr. Duplaga will explain your procedure before treatment so you understand what is planned and how to prepare.
IV sedation may also be available for appropriate patients to help make treatment more comfortable. If sedation is planned, our team will provide specific instructions regarding food and drink, medications, transportation, and care after the procedure.
After Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the patient, the number of teeth removed, and the complexity of the procedure.
Some swelling, soreness, and temporary changes in eating are common following wisdom teeth removal. Before you leave our office, we will provide instructions for caring for the surgical areas and managing your recovery at home.
Your instructions may include guidance about eating, oral hygiene, activity, medications, swelling, and follow-up care.
Always follow the specific post-surgery instructions provided by our office and contact us if you have questions or concerns during recovery.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Near You
Center for Oral Surgery provides wisdom teeth removal from our office in Wheeling, WV for patients throughout the Ohio Valley, including:
- Moundsville, WV
- New Martinsville, WV
- Weirton, WV
- St. Clairsville, OH
- Steubenville, OH
- Washington, PA
If you have been referred by your dentist or are experiencing symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, our team can help determine the next step in your care.
Make an Appointment
If you have been referred for oral surgery, are experiencing a dental concern, or want to learn more about dental implant treatment, contact Center for Oral Surgery in Wheeling, WV.
Our team can help you schedule an evaluation and determine the next step in your care.