What Are Wisdom Teeth — and Why Do They Cause Problems?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge — typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, they come in just fine. But for many others, wisdom teeth become a source of pain, crowding, infection, and ongoing dental complications. If you've been told you may need wisdom teeth removal in Pembroke Pines, you're not alone — and you're in the right place.

At Pembroke Dental & Spa, located right here on Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines, FL, our experienced team helps patients navigate wisdom tooth concerns with clarity, compassion, and expert care. Here's everything you need to know.

Signs You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out, but many do. Our team will evaluate your teeth and take X-rays to assess their position and impact on your overall oral health. Some of the most common signs that removal may be necessary include:

• Pain or pressure at the back of your mouth — A dull ache or sharp pain near your jaw can signal that wisdom teeth are pushing through or pressing against neighboring teeth.
• Impacted wisdom teeth — When there isn't enough room for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, they become trapped (or "impacted") beneath the gum or bone. Impacted teeth can lead to infection, cysts, and damage to adjacent teeth.
• Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums — Inflamed gum tissue around a partially emerged wisdom tooth is a breeding ground for bacteria and infection.
• Crowding or shifting of other teeth — Wisdom teeth can push against your existing teeth, undoing orthodontic work or causing alignment issues.
• Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing — Jaw stiffness or discomfort while eating can be a sign that your wisdom teeth are creating pressure problems.
• Recurring infections or bad taste near the back of the mouth — Partially erupted wisdom teeth are notoriously difficult to clean and can trap food and bacteria.

Even if you're not experiencing symptoms, impacted or poorly positioned wisdom teeth can cause silent damage over time. That's why routine dental exams and X-rays are so important.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

We understand that the idea of oral surgery can feel intimidating. At Pembroke Dental & Spa, we've designed our entire practice around your comfort. Our spa-inspired environment, calming atmosphere, and gentle, attentive team make even complex procedures feel more manageable.

Here's a general overview of what the process looks like:

• Consultation and X-rays: Before anything else, Dr. Jeanette Novara will review your dental X-rays, evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth, and discuss the best course of action for your specific situation.
• Anesthesia options: Your comfort is our priority. We offer local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, and we'll walk you through all your options to ensure you feel at ease before we begin.
• The extraction: For fully erupted wisdom teeth, the process is similar to a standard tooth extraction. For impacted teeth, a small incision in the gum may be necessary to access and remove the tooth in sections. Dr. Novara's more than 20 years of experience in oral surgery means you're in highly skilled hands.
• Recovery: Most patients recover comfortably within a few days to a week. We'll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and reduce any risk of complications like dry socket.

Recovery Tips After Wisdom Teeth Removal

A smooth recovery starts with following your dentist's post-operative instructions. A few general tips to keep in mind:

• Rest for at least 24 hours following the procedure and avoid strenuous activity.
• Apply an ice pack to the outside of your jaw to reduce swelling.
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days.
• Avoid using a straw, smoking, or rinsing vigorously — these actions can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.
• Take any prescribed medications as directed and attend your follow-up appointment.

Our bilingual team — fluent in both English and Spanish — is always available to answer questions and support you through every stage of your recovery.

Why Choose Pembroke Dental & Spa for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Patients throughout Pembroke Pines, FL trust Pembroke Dental & Spa for oral surgery because we combine clinical excellence with a truly welcoming experience. Dr. Jeanette Novara has over two decades of experience in general dentistry and oral surgery, and our entire team is dedicated to making sure you feel informed, cared for, and comfortable — every step of the way.

Whether you're coming in for the first time or you're already part of our dental family, we're here to help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.

Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Consultation Today

If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or have been told your wisdom teeth may need attention, don't wait. Early evaluation can prevent more serious complications down the road.

Ready to schedule? Call us at (954) 419-4455, visit www.pembrokedentalspa.com, or ask about our $85 New Patient Special — includes X-rays, exam, and cleaning.