Wisdom Teeth Extraction

At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, Massachusetts, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry, DMD, provides expert wisdom teeth extractions to ensure your long-term oral health. Whether your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or you’ve been advised to remove them as a preventive measure, we are here to guide you through the process with compassionate and professional care. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people develop four wisdom teeth—two on the top and two on the bottom. 

While some individuals have no issues with their wisdom teeth, many experience problems due to limited space in the jaw, causing the teeth to become impacted or grow in incorrectly. 

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone requires wisdom teeth removal, but extractions are often necessary for the following reasons: 

Impaction

Wisdom teeth can become trapped under the gums or in the jawbone, leading to pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth may also damage adjacent teeth. 

Overcrowding

If your jaw lacks space, wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment and shifting. 

Infection & Gum Disease

Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, making them prone to bacterial buildup and increasing the risk of gum disease and infections. 

Tooth Decay

Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where food and bacteria accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and decay. 

Cysts & Jaw Damage

In some cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts that damage surrounding bone and nerves. 

If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or difficulty chewing, it’s essential to consult Dr. Chilakamarry to determine whether extraction is the best option. 

Signs That You May Need Wisdom Teeth Extraction

If you notice any of the following symptoms, schedule a consultation at Hathorne Family Dental: 

• Persistent pain or pressure in the back of your mouth 

• Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums 

• Difficulty chewing, opening your mouth, or swallowing 

• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth 

• Frequent headaches or jaw pain 

• Swelling in the cheeks or jawline 

Even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms, your dentist may recommend proactive removal to prevent future complications. 

The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process

At Hathorne Family Dental, we ensure that wisdom teeth extractions are performed with precision, care, and comfort. Here’s what you can expect: 

Consultation & Evaluation

Dr. Chilakamarry will conduct a thorough oral examination and take digital X-rays to assess: 

• The position of your wisdom teeth 

• The risk of impaction or complications 

• The best approach for extraction 

Anesthesia & Sedation Options

To ensure a pain-free experience, we offer different anesthesia options: 

• Local Anesthesia – Numbs the area around the wisdom teeth 

• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) – Helps patients feel relaxed during the procedure 

• IV Sedation – For those with dental anxiety or complex cases 

The Extraction Procedure

The extraction process varies based on whether the wisdom teeth are fully erupted or impacted: 

• Simple Extraction – If the tooth has fully emerged, it can be removed like a regular tooth with minimal intervention. 

• Surgical Extraction – If the tooth is impacted, a small incision is made in the gum, and the tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. 

The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, and patients experience minimal discomfort due to effective anesthesia. 

Closing & Recovery

Once the teeth are removed: 

• The area is cleaned to remove debris. 

• Stitches may be placed if necessary. 

• Gauze is applied to control bleeding and aid clot formation. 

Recovery & Aftercare Tips

Most patients recover within 7-10 days, but proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth healing process. 

Immediate Post-Surgery Care (First 24 Hours)

• Bite on gauze to control bleeding (change as needed). 

• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off). 

• Rest and avoid physical activity. 

• Take prescribed pain medication as directed. 

• Drink plenty of water, but avoid using a straw (it can dislodge the blood clot). 

• Eat soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soup. 

What to Avoid

• No smoking or alcohol for at least 48 hours. 

• No spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours. 

• Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods. 

Days 2-7: Continued Recovery

• Swelling may peak on day 2 or 3, then gradually decrease. 

• Gently rinse with warm salt water (starting on day 2) to prevent infection. 

• Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the extraction site. 

• Stick to soft foods, gradually introducing solid foods as tolerated. 

Potential Complications & When to Call the Dentist

While wisdom teeth extractions are routine, complications can occasionally arise. Contact Dr. Chilakamarry if you experience: 

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication 

• Excessive bleeding beyond 24 hours 

• Signs of infection (fever, pus, or bad taste) 

• Dry socket (severe pain due to loss of the blood clot) 

• Persistent swelling beyond a week 

If you experience any of these symptoms, call Hathorne Family Dental for prompt care. 

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common and often necessary procedure to prevent pain, infections, and dental complications. At Hathorne Family Dental, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry, DMD, provides expert, compassionate care to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Whether you’re dealing with impacted wisdom teeth or considering removal as a preventive measure, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait until discomfort worsens—schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward protecting your oral health and maintaining a pain-free smile! 

Contact Hathorne Family Dental today to schedule your appointment.