Wisdom Teeth Removal in Renton, WA

Wisdom teeth—those third molars that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties—often cause more problems than they're worth. At Michael J. Scoles, DMD in Renton, WA, Dr. Michael Scoles's advanced surgical training means you can have your wisdom teeth removed right here in our office, with expert care and minimal discomfort.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?

Our ancestors needed wisdom teeth to replace molars lost to wear and tear. But modern humans have smaller jaws, and there's often not enough room for these extra molars. This can lead to several problems:

• Impaction – The teeth don't have room to emerge properly and remain trapped in the jawbone or gums
• Crowding – They push against other teeth, potentially undoing years of orthodontic work
• Infection – Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate
• Cysts – Impacted wisdom teeth can develop fluid-filled sacs that damage the jawbone
• Decay – They're hard to clean properly, making them prone to cavities
• Gum disease – Inflammation and infection of the gum tissue around wisdom teeth

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but these symptoms suggest it's time:

• Pain or stiffness in your jaw
• Swelling or tenderness in the back of your mouth
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Recurring infections in the gum tissue
• Crowding or shifting of other teeth

Even if you're not experiencing symptoms, we might recommend removal if X-rays show your wisdom teeth are impacted or likely to cause problems in the future.

The Removal Process

Here's what to expect when you have your wisdom teeth removed:

1. Consultation and X-rays – We'll take detailed images to see the position of your wisdom teeth and plan the best approach
2. Anesthesia – We'll numb the area with local anesthesia. For anxious patients or complex cases, we can provide oral sedation
3. Extraction – Dr. Michael Scoles will carefully remove each wisdom tooth. For impacted teeth, this may involve making a small incision in the gum and removing some bone
4. Stitches – If needed, we'll place dissolvable stitches to help the gums heal
5. Recovery instructions – We'll give you detailed aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing

Recovery Tips

Following these guidelines will help you heal quickly and comfortably:

• Rest – Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours
• Ice packs – Apply to your face for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off for the first day
• Soft foods – Stick to yogurt, smoothies, soup, and other soft foods
• No straws – Suction can dislodge blood clots and cause dry socket
• Gentle rinsing – After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water
• Take medications as prescribed – Pain medication and antibiotics if prescribed
• No smoking – Smoking significantly increases complications
• Sleep elevated – Use extra pillows to keep your head elevated

Why Choose Michael J. Scoles, DMD for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Dr. Michael Scoles received advanced training in Oral Surgery during his service with the US Navy. This specialized education means:

• Expert surgical technique for even complex extractions
• No need for referral to an oral surgeon for most cases
• Comfortable, familiar environment with a team you trust
• Comprehensive care from consultation through recovery

Don't Wait Until It's an Emergency

If your wisdom teeth are causing problems—or if you're not sure whether they need to come out—let's take a look. Call Michael J. Scoles, DMD at 425-228-6444 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Scoles in Renton, WA. We'll evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.