Wisdom Teeth:
What you need to know
Wisdom Teeth
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Why to remove?
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When is the right time?
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How to get prepared?
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What is the procedure?
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Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to erupt in the mouth—typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. When properly aligned and surrounded by healthy gum tissue, they may not require removal. However, in many cases, wisdom teeth become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully emerge due to the lack of space or obstruction by other teeth.
Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Impacted or poorly positioned wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of oral health problems, including:
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Infection: Partially erupted teeth create openings that trap food and bacteria, often resulting in painful gum infections, swelling, and stiffness.
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Decay to nearby teeth: The pressure of erupting wisdom teeth can shift other teeth, disrupting alignment or orthodontic results and cause decay of nearby teeth.
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Cyst or tumor formation: In some cases, cysts or tumors can develop around impacted teeth, causing damage to the jawbone and neighboring teeth.
Removing impacted wisdom teeth is often the best way to prevent these complications. Early evaluation and removal—typically in the mid-to-late teenage years—can minimize surgical risk and promote faster, easier recovery.
When is the right time to remove Wisdom Teeth?
Dr. Mancuso will conduct a thorough oral examination and take digital X-rays to assess the position and development of your wisdom teeth. Based on these findings, he will determine whether extraction is recommended.
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All procedures are performed under appropriate anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety. Dr. Mancuso and his surgical team are fully trained and licensed to provide local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on each patient’s needs and preferences.
Mancuso
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Opening Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 8am to 5pm
Friday-Sunday: Closed
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890 Saratoga AvenueSan Jose, CA 95129
408-247-9074
What is the procedure of removing wisdom teeth?
The removal of wisdom teeth is typically performed in our state-of-the-art surgical suite under the chosen anesthesia method. During the procedure:
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The area is numbed with local anesthesia, and the patient can be either sedated, under laughing gas or using only local anesthesia for comfort.
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A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and surrounding bone.
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The tooth is gently removed, sometimes in sections for easier access.
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The site is thoroughly cleaned and sutured to promote healing.
Following surgery, you will rest comfortably under supervision until you are ready to be discharged.
Before leaving, you will receive a care package that includes:
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Extra sterile gauze for managing minor bleeding
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A reusable ice pack to help reduce swelling
Postoperative instructions outlining proper care, and dietary guidelines
