Frequently Asked Questions
What is an impacted tooth?
An impacted tooth is one that stays in the gum tissue and does not come out at its normal eruption time. Impacted wisdom teeth are common as well as impacted cuspid or “eye” teeth.
What if a cuspid tooth does become impacted?
If a cuspid tooth becomes impacted, it is very important that a dental professional assist in every effort to have the tooth move into the proper place. These teeth are very important since they are very strong biting teeth. Usually, in a combined effort between orthodontist and oral surgeon, an orthodontist will place braces on the teeth to open a space for the tooth to come through. Once the space is available, the oral surgeon will expose and bracket the tooth. This is a simple procedure that involves lifting the gum to expose the impacted tooth and bonding a bracket to it. About a week later, the orthodontist will apply either a rubber band or chain to the tooth to guide it into place.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are third molars that typically come in between the ages of 17 and 24, but can appear when older or younger, or may not appear at all.
Why should I have my widsom teeth removed?
The need to have wisdom teeth removed arises when the teeth cannot erupt properly. They may be growing sideways or backwards and may be partially visible in the mouth. Sometimes these teeth are even completely hidden under the gum and bone. Your general dentist or orthodontist may refer you to our office to have the wisdom teeth extracted. Even wisdom teeth that are not impacted may need to be removed if they are badly decayed or are causing damage to adjacent teeth.
If left in place, the wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems including infections, tumors or cysts around the impacted tooth. Early removal is recommended to avoid problems and /or decrease complications that can arise from the procedure.
What can I expect after the surgery?
After your oral surgery, we will send post-operative instructions home with you to assist in any questions that may arise. At home, you should place an ice pack or cold compress on your face for the rest of the day of the surgery. This should be done in increments of 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. Keeping this area cold will reduce swelling. Do not smoke or drink through a straw during the first 24 hours. The following day, if swelling has occurred, please refer to the post-operative instructions for assistance, or call our office.
Can I eat before my surgery?
If you are having intravenous sedation or general anesthesia you must have nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours before the appointment. If surgery is scheduled in the morning, do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
Can I drive myself home after the surgery?
If you are having local anesthesia (novacaine) you can drive home. If you are having intravenous sedation or general anesthesia you cannot drive yourself home. Someone must come with you who can wait in the office while you are in surgery and can drive you home after. You cannot drive for 24 hours after IV sedation or general anesthesia.
What should I do if I am in pain after returning home?
For pain and discomfort, use the prescription medication that has been given to you. Do not be afraid to use this medication; it is designed to make those first few days after surgery more comfortable for you. For more information, refer to the Post-Operative Instructions we give to you after surgery.
What should I do in case of an emergency after my surgery?
If you have an emergency and need to speak to the doctor, call the office at 856-772-1500. If the office is closed, leave your name, number and a brief description of the problem on the answering machine. Then hang up and dial 856-427-8162. Wait for the tone, then enter your phone number into the phone and hang up. This will signal the doctor’s beeper directly. He will then return your call.
What is a dry socket?
After having a tooth extracted, a blood clot fills the socket and protects it during the healing process. During the normal healing process the clot remains intact. If the clot is lost or doesn’t form properly it is known as a dry socket. The symptoms of a dry socket are pain that gets worse after the first 2 to 3 days and pain that radiates to the ear. Dry sockets most commonly occur with lower teeth but do occur rarely with upper teeth. If you experience these symptoms call the office to make an appointment to see Dr. Rebhun. Dry socket is treated by placing a medicated packing into the socket for several days. You must then return to the office to have the packing removed.
How much swelling is normal?
Some swelling is to be expected after surgery. The amount of swelling depends upon many factors. If you think the swelling is more than expected, please call the office.
