At Rae Implant Dentistry, we specialize in the evaluation and removal of wisdom teeth (third molars). These late-developing teeth often cause problems due to insufficient space in the modern human jaw. Dr. Rae provides comprehensive wisdom teeth services, from initial evaluation through extraction and recovery, ensuring your comfort and optimal outcomes throughout the process.

Wisdom Teeth Evaluation

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Rae can evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in superior outcomes for patients. Most patients are first evaluated in their mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

• Comprehensive assessment using detailed panoramic x-rays
• Evaluation of current positioning and future eruption path
• Early identification of potential complications before symptoms develop
• Personalized treatment recommendations based on your specific situation
• Proactive approach to prevent more serious problems that could develop later

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

We will need to see you for a consultation to determine if you will benefit from wisdom tooth removal. A special x-ray of your mouth and jaws (panoramic) will be taken to determine if your wisdom teeth are impacted, if there is room for them to erupt, and how difficult it will be to have them removed. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause numerous problems including pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and in some cases, cyst formation.

• Professional assessment of wisdom tooth position and impaction status
• Detailed explanation of potential risks associated with your specific situation
• Customized treatment planning based on the complexity of your case
• Discussion of timing considerations for optimal healing and recovery
• Comprehensive pre-operative instructions to prepare for the procedure

Different Types of Impactions

Wisdom teeth can become impacted in several different ways, each presenting unique challenges for removal. Understanding the type of impaction helps determine the complexity of the extraction procedure and informs treatment planning.

Soft Tissue Impaction:

• There is not enough room to allow the gum tissue to retract for adequate cleaning of the tooth
• Creates a pocket where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection
• Often causes inflammation, swelling, and discomfort
• May partially emerge but cannot fully erupt into a functional position
• Requires surgical removal to prevent ongoing problems

Partial Bony Impaction:

• There is enough space to allow the wisdom tooth to partially erupt
• However, the tooth cannot function properly in the chewing process
• Creates cleaning problems and often leads to decay and infection
• May cause damage to adjacent second molars
• Requires more complex surgical techniques for safe removal

Complete Bony Impaction:

• There is NO space for the tooth to erupt as it remains fully embedded in the jaw bone
• May be positioned vertically, horizontally, or at an angle
• If even partially visible, requires complex surgical techniques for removal
• The impacted wisdom tooth may be in an unusual position, making removal more difficult
• Extraction complexity may increase when the shape or size of the jaw bone and other facial structures are involved

Extraction Process

The removal of wisdom teeth at Rae Implant Dentistry is performed with the highest standard of care, prioritizing your comfort and safety. Dr. Rae offers various sedation options to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.

• Thorough pre-operative evaluation and preparation
• Selection of appropriate anesthesia or sedation based on your needs and procedure complexity
• Precise surgical techniques to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues
• Careful extraction with special attention to nerve proximity and anatomical structures
• Comprehensive post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing

At Rae Implant Dentistry, we understand that wisdom tooth extraction can cause anxiety for many patients. Dr. Rae's extensive experience and gentle approach, combined with modern sedation options, help ensure your wisdom teeth removal experience is as comfortable as possible. Following your procedure, we provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available to address any questions or concerns during your recovery period.

‍