Saratoga County Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates

I was referred by my dentist to Dr. Bulford. I was in pain and worried. I recieved wonderful care. The doctor took the time to discuss the issue and was through and kind. I appreciated his time and patience with me. I would reccomend SCOMSA and Dr. Bulford to anyone. Lorraine P

Dr. Bulford and staff were fantastic! Would not hesitate to recommend this practice to ANYONE! Thank you! Tara T

Absolutely the best thereEVERYONE! I could not have asked for better care! Thank you ALL! James C

WONDERFUL HERE! Linda C

Wisdom teeth: Development, Risks & Management Wisdom teeth are the last set of permanent molars to develop in the mouth. These teeth usually begin to erupt between the ages of 16 and 21. By this age, most individuals have reached an age of physical maturity and the jaw bone ceases to grow. It is during this time, when eruption potential is greatest, that wisdom teeth often become symptomatic. Since these teeth are positioned at the back of the mouth, there is often a lack... of space to accommodate them. These teeth also have a tendency to grow horizontally or angled towards or away from other teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth may be partially or completely encased in bone and/or gum tissue. Teeth that are completely encased in the bone are termed bony impacted. Teeth that erupt incompletely through the gum tissue and bone are termed partially impacted. Both impacted and erupted wisdom teeth may be prone to health issues. When wisdom teeth are impacted and angled towards the neighboring teeth, damage to the surrounding bone and adjacent tooth roots can occur. Occasionally, a cyst may develop around an impacted tooth, which can jeopardize the health of other teeth and the entire jaw. Wisdom teeth that are partially covered by gum tissue and bone are much more difficult to keep clean as food debris and bacteria inevitably collect and become trapped under these tissues. This scenario can lead to pain, swelling & jaw stiffness, tooth decay, gum disease, and halitosis. Even fully erupted wisdom teeth are prone to these issues given the challenge of keeping them clean. With recent surgical advances and anesthesia techniques, extraction of wisdom teeth can normally be performed safely on an outpatient basis under sedation. Patients should always give the oral surgeon a complete and comprehensive account of their medical history and current medications so that the doctor can provide an individualized procedure plan that best fits the patient's own medical needs. Due to the complex and uncertain nature of third molar-related disease and complications, we at Saratoga County Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Associates recommend that all young patients have a comprehensive third molar evaluation. The purpose of this visit is to document third molar presence, position and development, chart baseline disease, and discuss treatment options. With this information, benefits/risks and indications for removing these teeth can be determined and a treatment plan can be formulated.