How to Know If You Need to Have Your Wisdom Tooth Removed

dentist appointment

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that millions worldwide undergo each year. It is usually done when the wisdom teeth, the third molars, begin to cause pain or become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth will often cause infection, crowding, and other complications. Depending on the individual, wisdom teeth removal may be done with local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia.

What Are the Signs of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other dental issues if left untreated. The signs of an impacted wisdom tooth can vary, but some of the most common include the following:

1. Swelling

Swelling around the gums and jaw is one of the most common symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth. This swelling can be accompanied by pain and discomfort.

2. Pain

Pain and discomfort around the jaw and gums indicate an impacted wisdom tooth. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms.

3. Infection

If an impacted wisdom tooth is left untreated, it can lead to an infection. This infection can cause swelling, pain, and even abscesses.

4. Difficulties Eating

Impacted wisdom teeth can make it difficult to chew and eat food. This can be due to the pain and discomfort associated with the impacted tooth, as well as the position of the tooth itself.

5. Bad Breath

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause bad breath due to the food particles and bacteria that become trapped around the tooth. This can lead to an unpleasant smell in the mouth.

6. Jaw Stiffness

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause the jaw muscles to become stiff and sore. This can lead to difficulty opening and closing the mouth and pain and discomfort when chewing.

How Does the Wisdom Tooth Removal Process Go?

The wisdom tooth removal process can be a daunting one, but it can also be surprisingly straightforward. Knowing the steps involved in the process can help ease worries and make the entire experience easier. 

1. Consultation

This is the first step of the wisdom tooth removal process. During the consultation, your dentist will review the current state of your teeth and gums, assess the wisdom teeth’s position, and discuss the procedure. 

2. X-rays

X-rays are usually taken to better look at the wisdom teeth and the area surrounding them. This helps the dentist understand the extent of the problem and plan for the procedure. 

3. Anesthesia

Depending on the complexity of the extraction, your dentist may recommend local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia numbs the area around the tooth to reduce discomfort during the extraction. General anesthesia puts you to sleep during the procedure. 

4. Removal

Once you are numbed, your dentist will use a small tool to loosen the tooth before gently removing it. Sometimes, the dentist may need special tools to remove the tooth. 

5. Recovery

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours until the anesthesia wears off. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication for any discomfort you feel during the healing process. 

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that a qualified dentist or oral surgeon can perform. The decision to remove wisdom teeth is often based on several factors, including the tooth’s position, the surrounding teeth’ health, and the patient’s overall health. In most cases, wisdom teeth can be removed safely and without complications.

Need emergency dental care in Pickering? You can visit us at Pickering Dental Services. We offer our clients the best preventive dental care to ensure that they can keep their oral health in top shape. Book an appointment with us at Pickering Dental Services today.

5 Reasons To Choose Tooth-Coloured Fillings

dentist explaining

For most people, dealing with cavities is a part of life. Whether it’s due to improper brushing, infrequent dental visits or overindulging in sweets, most people have had to deal with small holes in their teeth that can be painful if left untreated. Fortunately, most cavities are easily remedied by tooth fillings.

How Do Tooth Fillings Work?

Dentists do tooth fillings to restore a damaged tooth to its natural shape and function. The process involves removing the decayed part of the tooth, cleaning the area, and then filling it with a unique material. 

These materials can be anything from gold and silver amalgam to composite resin, porcelain, or ceramic. A dentist will factor in the size and location of the cavity and the patient’s preference in choosing the appropriate filling material.

Which Kind of Tooth Filling Should I Choose?

Tooth-coloured composite fillings are a popular choice among patients due to their natural colour, which blends well with the rest of the teeth. These fillings are composed of glass, plastic particles, and resin, which are applied layer by layer to the tooth. Any other filling will do the job, but Pickering dentists recommend tooth-coloured resin filling due to a few advantages.

Why Choose Tooth-Coloured Fillings?

Here are five reasons why you should choose tooth-coloured resin fillings.

1) Aesthetic Appeal

Tooth-coloured fillings blend in with your natural teeth, so they look much better than metal ones which can stand out from the rest of your smile. This makes them ideal if you want to maintain a beautiful aesthetic while getting rid of those pesky cavities! 

2) Durability 

Tooth-coloured resin fillings are incredibly durable, lasting up to ten years or more, depending on the care taken. This is due to their strong bond with the tooth structure, which makes them resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, they are more resistant to staining and discoloration than traditional metal fillings, meaning your smile will look great for longer.

3) Safety 

Tooth-coloured fillings are made of biocompatible materials, meaning they are safe for use in the mouth and do not contain any potentially harmful toxins or metals. Additionally, they bond to the tooth structure, helping to strengthen the tooth and prevent further decay. This makes them a safe and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth.

4) Cost Effectiveness

Tooth-coloured resin fillings are a cost-effective solution for restoring damaged teeth. They are less expensive than other restorations, such as porcelain crowns or veneers, and can often be completed in a single office visit. 

Additionally, the materials used are durable and long-lasting, meaning they will not need to be replaced as often as other treatments. This makes them an economical choice for restoring damaged teeth.

5) Improved Oral Health

If done correctly by a licensed dentist, tooth-coloured fillings can help to prevent further decay and help to maintain the natural shape of the tooth. This can help improve your oral health and keep your smile looking its best!

Conclusion 

Overall, tooth-coloured fillings are an excellent option for those who want to keep their smile natural and healthy. They can help prevent further cavities from forming and look just like your natural teeth. Plus, they are much safer than metal fillings. So if you’re looking to address cavities, consider getting tooth-coloured fillings from dentists in Pickering. 

With Pickering Square Dental, your oral health is in capable hands. Our dentists in Pickering offer services in emergency dental care, dental extractions, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.