Table of Contents
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop, typically appearing during the late teens or early twenties. While some wisdom teeth come in normally and remain healthy, others may become impacted, grow at an angle, or cause problems when there isn’t enough room in the mouth.
At Parkway Family Dental, we provide personalized wisdom teeth removal in Kalispell MT as well as evaluations to determine whether your wisdom teeth need treatment. Whether your wisdom teeth should be monitored or extracted, our dental team will help you understand your options and recommend care based on your individual oral health.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully erupted, properly positioned, and easy to keep clean may simply need to be monitored during routine dental visits.
However, problems can develop when wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow or emerge properly. A wisdom tooth may become partially or completely trapped beneath the gums or jawbone, which is known as impaction.
Wisdom tooth removal may be recommended when third molars are causing or contributing to problems such as:
- Pain or tenderness toward the back of the mouth
- Swelling or inflammation around the gums
- Tooth decay in a wisdom tooth that is difficult to clean
- Gum disease around partially erupted wisdom teeth
- Infection around the tooth or surrounding tissues
- Damage to a neighboring tooth
- Cysts or other problems associated with an impacted tooth
Regular dental exams and appropriate imaging allow our team to monitor developing wisdom teeth and identify potential concerns.
Wisdom Teeth Evaluations in Kalispell MT
If you are experiencing symptoms or your wisdom teeth are beginning to develop, our team can evaluate their position and determine whether treatment is necessary.
Dental X-rays provide important information about the position of the wisdom teeth, their roots, and the surrounding structures. When additional detail is needed, advanced imaging may also be used to help plan treatment.
Based on your examination and imaging, we can determine whether your wisdom teeth can remain in place and be monitored or whether removal is the healthier option.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
The exact procedure depends on how your wisdom teeth have developed. A fully erupted wisdom tooth may be removed similarly to another tooth extraction, while an impacted tooth may require a surgical approach.
Before treatment begins, the area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia to help keep you comfortable. Sedation options may also be available for qualifying patients who need additional help relaxing during treatment.
If the wisdom tooth is impacted, an opening may be made in the gum tissue to access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be divided into smaller sections so it can be removed more easily. Once the tooth has been removed, the area is cleaned and stitches may be placed when necessary.
Our team will explain your procedure beforehand so you know what to expect.
Recovering After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Some swelling, tenderness, and minor bleeding are normal following wisdom tooth removal. The amount and duration of discomfort can vary depending on the number and position of the teeth removed and the complexity of your procedure.
Before you leave Parkway Family Dental, we will provide detailed instructions for caring for the extraction sites and supporting proper healing.
Your aftercare instructions may include information about:
- Managing swelling and discomfort
- Choosing soft foods while the area heals
- Keeping your mouth and extraction sites clean
- Avoiding straws and other activities that can disturb the blood clot
- Temporarily limiting strenuous physical activity
- Taking prescribed or recommended medications as directed
- Knowing when to contact our office with a concern
Protecting the blood clot that forms over each extraction site is particularly important during the early stages of healing. If the clot becomes dislodged or breaks down too soon, a painful complication known as dry socket can occur.
Comfortable Wisdom Teeth Removal in Kalispell MT
At Parkway Family Dental, we understand that the thought of having wisdom teeth removed can make patients nervous. Our goal is to provide clear information, answer your questions, and make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
We take a personalized approach to every wisdom tooth evaluation. If your wisdom teeth are healthy and not causing problems, we can continue monitoring them. If removal is recommended, we’ll explain why and walk you through each step of treatment and recovery.
If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, swelling, or other symptoms—or simply want to know how your wisdom teeth are developing—contact Parkway Family Dental to schedule an evaluation and learn more about wisdom teeth removal in Kalispell MT.