Sierra Centre - Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth or third molars are the last permanent teeth to form and move into the mouth. Wisdom teeth will usually emerge at around 16 to 18 years of age and be fully developed by the age of 22 or 23. This was assumed to be the “age of wisdom”, which is where the term “wisdom” teeth originated. It is suggested that wisdom teeth be removed before they are fully developed. As the teeth grow and roots extend lower into the jaw line these extractions become more difficult.

Why Remove?

Often times, wisdom teeth only become partially erupted. These teeth are considered to be impacted and can have a variety of consequences if left un-attended. Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth can works its way down into the impacted wisdom teeth causing infection in the surrounding gums and bone. Repeated soreness around the wisdom teeth is often mistaken as an effort on the part of the wisdom teeth to erupt but should always be looked at by a professional.

As soon as you have any soreness it is recommend that you schedule a visit to your dentist. Surrounding bone, tooth roots and adjacent teeth may be harmed if left untreated and your roots will continue to grow deeper the more time you wait.

The constant pressure from impacted wisdom teeth can also damage adjacent teeth. You may not feel anything until significant damage has occurred. This pressure may also push other teeth out of line, possibly creating a need for orthodontic treatment.

With the help of radiographs (X-Rays), we can accurately predict if the unerupted teeth will be problematic. If it is suggested to remove the teeth, be aware that surgery is much simpler for

younger patients than older patients as roots are not yet fully developed and bone is not as dense. If you are one of many people who are fearful of this procedure speak to us about Sedation Dentistry and how we can help calm your dental fears.

Be Aware!

Even if you have no symptoms now, headaches, earaches, pain in the face, neck, throat and upper and lower teeth can occur if impacted wisdom teeth are not removed. Cysts can also develop around impacted wisdom teeth. The sac or growth follicle that surrounds the developing wisdom teeth may remain when the teeth are impacted. This sac can fill with fluid and become cystic, destroying bone surrounding adjacent molars. In rare instances, if the cyst is not treated, a tumor may develop and more extensive procedures may be required for removal.

Sierra Centre - Nitrous Oxide

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide, also called laughing gas, is a colorless gas that is often used for it's calming effect.

After reviewing your health history, we can help you determine if nitrous oxide is right for you. Nitrous Oxide is safe, effective and helps you feel more relaxed during your dental appointment.

A Typical Nitrous Oxide Visit

To use nitrous oxide, we place a small mask over your nose, and you simply breathe in normally. It takes just a few minutes for you to notice the effects. People most often describe the feeling as being relaxed, unconcerned, happy, slightly numb, and disconnected from what is happening around them.

Since nitrous oxide does not numb the teeth, we may also recommend anesthetic for some dental procedures.

Controlling the Effects

During the procedure, let us know if you want to adjust the dosage of the nitrous oxide gas to fit your needs. You can also control the dosage by your breathing. The more deeply you breathe through your nose, the more you feel nitrous oxides effect.

After a dental appointment with nitrous oxide, it is safe for you to drive because there are no long-lasting effects.