Did you know that wisdom teeth, also called third molars, typically come in during the late teenage years or early twenties? It's fascinating how over time, many myths have spread about how wisdom teeth can affect our facial appearance. Today, we're here to debunk one of the most common misconceptions: the belief that wisdom teeth make your face look “fat.”
Here at Dallas Surgical Arts, we specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery, including wisdom teeth extractions. Keep reading to learn more about wisdom teeth and how Dallas Surgical Arts can help you with your oral health concerns!
The Role of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth were necessary for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed the extra molars to aid in chewing tough, raw foods. However, due to changes in our diet and evolution, our jaws have become smaller, resulting in insufficient space for the proper eruption and alignment of wisdom teeth.
Facial Fatness Myth
Believe it or not, wisdom teeth are not the culprits behind facial fatness, despite what many people think. It's true that there might be some swelling after getting your wisdom teeth extracted, and if they're not properly taken care of, they can lead to oral health problems. However, facial fatness is definitely not one of them. The only time you might notice swelling is if an abscess develops, which could explain why this myth became so widespread.
The Essential Need to Address Impacted Wisdom Teeth
At Dallas Surgical Arts, a consultation with Dr. Randy Sanovich (a board-certified Dallas oral surgeon) is the first step to addressing your wisdom teeth concerns. During this consultation, Dr. Sanovich will evaluate your dental and medical history, perform a comprehensive examination, and determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.
Dr. Sanovich will thoroughly assess your specific case and determine the necessity of wisdom teeth extraction. He will explain the procedure, address any concerns you may have, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your oral health needs. Dr. Sanovich will use digital imaging and X-rays to assess the impaction and condition of your wisdom teeth. By carefully analyzing the images, Dr. Sanovich can determine the best approach for extraction. Whether your wisdom teeth are partially impacted, fully impacted, or just causing slight discomfort, this evaluation process allows Dr. Sanovich to create the best treatment plan that will cater to your specific needs. For teeth that are severely impacted, patients may experience extreme discomfort in the tooth site and it is recommended to have a consultation right away to address this issue.
Ignoring the discomfort caused by impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various oral health complications. If left untreated, impacted teeth can result in:
Infections - Bacteria can easily accumulate around the impacted teeth, leading to infections and abscesses.
Crowding - Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the adjacent teeth, causing crowding and misalignment.
Cysts - In some cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts, which are sacs filled with fluid that can deteriorate or damage the surrounding tooth and jaw structures.
Gum Disease - Gum disease can occur, leading to inflammation and potential tooth loss.
Wisdom teeth extraction is typically performed under sedation to ensure your comfort. Dr. Sanovich will make an incision in the gum tissue, remove any bone obstructing the tooth, and extract the wisdom tooth. Exparel is a non-opioid pain reliever that can be used to numb the extraction site for up to 72 hours post-surgery. This eliminates the need for strong opioid prescriptions, as many parents feel strongly against their child taking prescription pain medication.
Sutures may be placed to promote proper healing. Following the procedure, Dr. Sanovich will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care. This may include recommendations for pain management, proper oral hygiene practices, and a soft diet to accelerate healing.
Dallas Surgical Arts is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and utilizes advanced techniques to ensure a safe and effective wisdom teeth extraction. Dr. Sanovich and the experienced team at DSA prioritize patient comfort and use the latest technology to deliver optimal results.
Wisdom Teeth Surgery in Dallas
The team at Dallas Surgical Arts understands the anxiety and apprehension associated with oral surgery. They provide compassionate care, creating a supportive environment where your comfort and well-being are prioritized throughout the entire process. Our advanced technology and techniques help you to heal quickly and comfortably so you can return to your normal daily activities as soon as possible!
Despite any lingering myths, wisdom teeth do not cause facial fatness, but they can contribute to significant oral health issues if not properly managed. Dallas Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Randy Sanovich, offers expert care and guidance in addressing wisdom teeth concerns. Schedule a consultation to receive personalized treatment and ensure your oral health and overall well-being!
Curious about oral surgery in Dallas? Call us today at (972) 776-4888 to learn more!