Dealing with the pain and oral problems from an impacted wisdom tooth can be uncomfortable and challenging. Understanding your available treatment options is important for managing your symptoms and optimizing your oral health. Here are some ways dentists in Phoenix, AZ, can diagnose and treat your impacted wisdom tooth while providing you with the essential information you need so that you can make an informed decision regarding your oral health.
Diagnosing Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When you describe your signs and symptoms, such as pain, a bad taste in your mouth, swollen or bleeding gums, or jaw pain, your dentist may suspect the presence of an impacted wisdom tooth. To confirm an impaction diagnosis, the best dentists in Phoenix, AZ, will perform a comprehensive examination that will include X-rays. Diagnostic X-rays allow dentists to identify the location and position of the impacted wisdom tooth so that they can determine the best treatment option suited to their patients’ unique situations.
Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Following your diagnosis, your dentist will recommend treatment options to manage your discomfort and minimize the risk of impaction-related complications. One of the most common treatments for wisdom tooth impactions is extraction. This procedure refers to removing the impacted wisdom tooth to minimize the risk of infection, reduce pain, and decrease the risk of damage to your nearby teeth. Before your extraction, your dentist will explain the process, including the type of anesthesia or sedation you may be offered, ensuring that you remain comfortable and informed throughout your treatment.