Oral Examination for Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
A proper oral examination is the first step in determining whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed. At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, our experienced oral surgeons utilize advanced 3D imaging and panoramic X-rays to evaluate the position, development, and health of your wisdom teeth.
During this consultation, we assess whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, partially erupted, or positioned in a way that may lead to complications. Early identification of potential issues helps us plan a safe, efficient extraction procedure—often preventing future pain, infection, or bone loss. Even if your wisdom teeth are not currently causing discomfort, they may still pose a risk, which is why proactive evaluation is essential.
Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop—typically in the late teens or early twenties. Unfortunately, they often lack the space to grow in properly and can lead to a range of oral health issues.
Infection:
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create a pocket where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections, swelling, and pain. This condition, known as pericoronitis, can become a recurring problem if not addressed.
Cyst Formation:
Fluid-filled cysts may form around impacted wisdom teeth. Left untreated, these cysts can damage the surrounding bone, gums, and nearby teeth, requiring more extensive surgery later.
Possible Crowding:
As wisdom teeth push against other molars, they can disrupt the alignment of your bite and undo previous orthodontic work. Removing them early reduces the risk of shifting teeth and crowding.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth:
Impacted wisdom teeth can press against the second molars, causing root damage, enamel erosion, or increased risk of cavities in neighboring teeth.
What If I Don’t Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed As a Teenager or Young Adult?
While wisdom teeth can be removed at any age, early removal—typically during the teenage years or early twenties—is ideal. At this stage, the roots are not fully developed, and the surrounding bone is less dense, making extraction easier and recovery quicker.
Delaying removal may increase the risk of complications such as nerve damage, bone loss, and prolonged healing. If you’re an adult with retained wisdom teeth, it’s important to schedule a consultation to evaluate your risk and determine whether extraction is still recommended.
What Happens On The Day Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?
On the day of your procedure, you’ll arrive at our Gulfport office where our team will review your treatment plan and administer the appropriate form of anesthesia—ranging from local to IV sedation—based on your comfort level and medical history.
The oral surgeon will gently expose the tooth, remove it, and close the area with dissolvable sutures if necessary. Most extractions are completed in less than an hour. Afterward, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions and medications to support your recovery. Swelling, mild discomfort, and limited jaw movement are normal for a few days but resolve quickly with proper care.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies based on several factors, including:
- Number of teeth being extracted
- Type of impaction (soft tissue, partial bony, full bony)
- Type of anesthesia used
- Insurance coverage or benefits
At South Mississippi Oral Surgery, we provide clear, upfront pricing and accept a wide range of dental insurance plans. For patients without insurance or those with high out-of-pocket costs, flexible financing options are available to help make care more accessible.