Wisdom Teeth Removal in Hamilton, MT

If you or your child are experiencing issues with wisdom teeth, you're not alone. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to develop. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. However, most adults do not have enough space for them. As a result, most dental professionals recommend removing wisdom teeth before complications arise.

Dr. Holtzen, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Alpine Oral & Facial Surgery in Hamilton, MT, has extensive experience in removing wisdom teeth. If you or your child are in need of wisdom teeth removal, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation at our practice.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery procedure because these molars often cause oral health issues. Due to their location at the back of the mouth, it can be challenging to clean them properly, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems.

When wisdom teeth are impacted, they are trapped below the gums and cannot erupt normally. This can result in pain, cysts or tumors, damage to nearby teeth, and gum disease. To prevent these complications, dental health professionals often recommend removing wisdom teeth before they fully develop. The ideal time for removal is typically during the early to mid-teen years, but they can be removed at any age.

Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impaction is a common complication associated with wisdom teeth. There are different types of impaction:

1. Soft tissue impaction: The tooth is partially or completely below the gums and is stuck in the gum tissue.
2. Partial bony impaction: The tooth is partially stuck in the jaw bone and the gum tissue.
3. Complete bony impaction: The tooth is entirely stuck in the jaw bone and cannot erupt through the gum tissue.

An impacted wisdom tooth must be surgically removed. We will take 3D scans of your teeth and jaws to determine the treatment plan that’s right for you.

Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth

If you or your child are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may indicate the presence of wisdom teeth:

• Red, swollen gums in the back of the mouth
• Pain in the jaw
• Sore or bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Bad taste in the mouth

Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

The first step in any oral surgery treatment is a consultation with Dr. Holtzen. During this initial visit, he will assess your oral health, review X-rays and 3D scans, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Your options for anesthesia will also be discussed with you at this appointment.

The actual surgical procedure will take place in one of our state-of-the-art surgical suites. Anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort, and once you are ready, the surgery will begin.

If the wisdom teeth are above the gum tissue, they can be removed like any other tooth. However, if they are impacted, your surgeon will surgically expose the tooth below the gums and then remove it. Stitches will be placed if needed, and you will remain in our office until the anesthesia wears off and you are ready to go home.

Wisdom teeth removal surgery takes between 30 to 60 minutes on average. Our practice will provide you with post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.