Improved imaging and medications make this common surgery a safer and more comfortable experience.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth refers to the third molars, which are located at the back of the mouth and are the last teeth to emerge. When wisdom teeth become impacted, or overcrowded, they put pressure on the neighboring molars and can lead to problems including pain, cavities, bone loss, cysts, tumors, and infections. Surgical removal can help prevent these problems and is recommended between the ages of 15 and 26 to reduce the risk of complications.
New Solutions
Wisdom teeth removal surgery is a very common procedure, and advancements in imaging and medications have made strides in improving the patient experience.
Imaging technology is used to view wisdom teeth placement and inform plans for the procedure. Cone-beam CT scans are an innovative imaging option that can produce detailed, three-dimensional images of the teeth and mouth, as well as the nerves and vessels.
Anesthesia is administered during the procedure to aid a pain-free experience. Advancements in medicine have produced a variety of options, which include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, conscious oral or IV sedation, and general anesthesia.
Pain medication can assist the healing process. Prescriptions may include narcotics for acute episodes of pain, and non-opioid options are available for use throughout recovery.
Benefits to Patients
Detailed imaging allows for precise planning that reduces the risk of complications, while anesthesia and pain medication have improved patient comfort during and after removal. Knowing these advancements are available to prevent complications and ease discomfort can be a great relief to any anxieties patients may have about this procedure.
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. Since joining CMC Publications as editor, Rachel has assumed the role of managing editor, where she is responsible for the annual development and completion of seventeen publications involving health, wellness, and lifestyles articles that are published in print and online for HealthScope, CityScope, and Choose Chattanooga magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
