Wisdom Teeth Removal in Waco, TX
If you or your teen are experiencing discomfort from wisdom teeth, Dr. Steven T. Cutbirth in Waco, TX, provides expert wisdom teeth removal tailored to your unique needs. With over 40 years of advanced dental experience, Dr. Cutbirth offers safe and effective wisdom tooth extractions in a comfortable, state-of-the-art environment.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically appearing in your late teens or early twenties. While these teeth once played a vital role in helping our ancestors chew coarse food, modern diets and smaller jaws often leave insufficient space for them to grow in properly. This can result in issues such as:
- Overcrowding of existing teeth
- Impaction (teeth trapped in the jaw or gums)
- Infection and inflammation
- Tooth decay or gum disease
Regular dental checkups and X-rays are essential to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether removal is necessary.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Retaining wisdom teeth can lead to significant oral health complications, including:
Impacted Teeth: Teeth that fail to fully erupt can push against neighboring teeth, leading to pain and structural damage.
Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Cysts or Tumors: Rarely, impacted wisdom teeth may form cysts, which can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth.
Difficulty Cleaning: Their position at the back of the mouth makes wisdom teeth challenging to clean, leading to chronic bad breath and decay.
Dr. Cutbirth emphasizes early intervention to prevent these issues, especially for younger patients who often experience shorter recovery times.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Dr. Cutbirth’s extensive oral surgery training ensures a seamless, low-stress experience for wisdom teeth removal. Here’s what you can expect:
Comprehensive Evaluation: During your consultation, we’ll use advanced imaging, such as 3D scans, to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and identify any underlying concerns.
Customized Sedation Options: To maximize your comfort, we offer various sedation techniques, including local anesthesia and IV sedation.
Procedure: Dr. Cutbirth will make a small incision to access impacted teeth if necessary. The teeth are carefully removed, and the site is sutured to promote healing. Most procedures take less than an hour.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
After surgery, we’ll provide detailed instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Typical steps include:
- Resting and avoiding strenuous activities for 2-3 days
- Managing swelling with ice packs and taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Sticking to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies
- Avoiding brushing near the extraction site or rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours
Dr. Cutbirth and his team are available to answer any questions or concerns during your recovery process.
Why Choose Dr. Steven T. Cutbirth for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Dr. Cutbirth’s expertise in comprehensive dental care and oral surgery makes him uniquely qualified to perform wisdom teeth extractions with precision and care. As the founding Director of the Center for Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry and an international educator, Dr. Cutbirth combines advanced techniques with a patient-first approach. His Waco-based practice is equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure safe and comfortable procedures.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation Today
Protect your oral health and prevent complications with expert wisdom teeth removal by Dr. Steven T. Cutbirth. Whether you need an evaluation or are ready for the procedure, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact our Waco, TX, office today to schedule your consultation!