1215 W. Rio Salado Pkwy, Suite 113, Tempe, AZ 85281
Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Tempe
Efficient and Simple Removal with Professional Attention
Extraction of wisdom teeth is a common procedure that many individuals will need at some point in their lives. These back teeth can cause problems if they do not come through the gums properly, leading to pain and potential oral health issues. While some general dentists may not offer this advanced treatment, our practice specializes in wisdom teeth extraction. Our experienced oral surgeons, Dr. Michael W. Golding and Dr. J. Gregory Sabol, provide effective and comfortable treatment to remove wisdom teeth efficiently. If you or your child requires wisdom teeth removal to alleviate symptoms or prevent future complications, our doctors at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona are here to help.
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What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically develop in late teens or twenties. They are called "wisdom" teeth because they are associated with maturity and age. However, these extra molars are not essential for chewing and often do not have enough space to grow properly in the mouth. Leaving wisdom teeth in can lead to oral health issues, so it is often recommended to have them removed.
Why is It Necessary to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If left untreated, wisdom teeth can become impacted and lead to various serious complications. These may include:
- Pain and stiffness in the area of the wisdom teeth
- Swelling
- Teeth overcrowding due to pressure from wisdom teeth
- Shifting of other teeth
- Gum disease
- Infections from trapped food and bacteria around wisdom teeth
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Interference with orthodontic treatment
- Cysts or tumors near wisdom teeth impacting jawbone and surrounding teeth
It is possible that some patients do not currently have symptoms, but it may be advised to remove wisdom teeth as a preventive measure to minimize the risk of future issues.
Impaction of Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause various symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, bleeding gums, bad breath, strange tastes, and headaches. Some individuals with impacted wisdom teeth may not experience any symptoms at all.
There are different degrees of wisdom teeth impaction. Soft tissue impaction occurs when the crown of the tooth is covered by the gum, partial bony impaction involves a partially erupted tooth still below the gum, and full bony impaction is when the tooth is completely covered by the jawbone.
During the initial consultation, our surgeon will determine the type of wisdom teeth impaction you have. If extraction is necessary, a personalized treatment plan will be created to effectively remove the impacted wisdom teeth.
What is Involved in the Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure?
At our practice, wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you won't need to stay overnight in the hospital. Our team prioritizes your comfort during the safe and effective removal of your wisdom teeth. While a local anesthetic is usually sufficient to minimize any discomfort, we also offer various anesthesia options, such as general anesthesia and nitrous oxide, for those who want to feel as relaxed as possible.
After the wisdom teeth are removed, a few sutures may be needed to close the gum opening. These sutures will dissolve on their own, so there is no need to return to have them removed. Our team aims to make the wisdom tooth extraction process quick, comfortable, and efficient. Following the procedure, we will provide you with aftercare instructions and a kit containing antibiotics and, if needed, a prescription for oral pain medication.
Wisdom Teeth Removal with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
Recent advancements in tissue and bone regeneration have led to innovative techniques in oral surgery that can improve healing and speed up recovery. One such advancement is the use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a substance made from the patient's own blood that can effectively repair and regenerate oral tissues. This can help promote healing after wisdom teeth removal. Before the extraction procedure, a small amount of blood will be taken and processed using the IntraSpin™ device to create leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF™), which contains natural growth factors to aid in healing. The L-PRF™ will then be applied to the treatment sites. This PRF technique is a groundbreaking development in wound healing and is now a standard part of our wisdom teeth removal procedures.
During Recovery From Wisdom Teeth Extraction, What Can I Expect?
The recovery process after wisdom teeth extraction varies depending on the number of teeth removed, individual healing speed, and adherence to post-treatment instructions. Temporary swelling and discomfort can be expected, but can be alleviated with pain medication. A soft-food diet may be recommended for a few days to protect the healing extraction sites. Generally, downtime following wisdom teeth extraction is minimal.
Tips for Removing Wisdom Teeth
After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure a comfortable and smooth recovery process. You will receive gauze pads to place on the treated areas after the procedure, which should be changed as directed. It is crucial to rinse your mouth gently, avoid touching the area, and refrain from consuming hot liquids, alcohol, smoking, or using straws. Resting and taking it easy after treatment is beneficial, and applying ice packs to the facial areas where the wisdom teeth were extracted for the first few days can help reduce swelling. Pain medication can also be used to manage discomfort. Be sure to follow the detailed instructions provided by our office and do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. Find out more about caring for the treated areas after wisdom teeth removal.
Is Pain Expected After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is common to experience some soreness in the areas where the teeth were extracted for a few days. This discomfort can be easily managed with medication. As the effects of the local anesthetic wear off, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol® or ibuprofen are usually enough to relieve any pain. In some cases, we may prescribe stronger pain medication. Following the post-operative care instructions carefully can help reduce pain and promote a smooth healing process.
Recommended Foods Post-wisdom Teeth Removal
After having wisdom teeth removed, patients should stick to soft, nutritious foods such as broths, blended soups, applesauce, mashed fruits or vegetables, and yogurt. As recovery progresses and patients feel comfortable, they can gradually introduce more standard foods into their diet. It is crucial to follow the post-operative care instructions provided to ensure proper nutrition and avoid harming the healing areas. Staying hydrated is also important, so patients are advised to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
What is the Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
The cost of wisdom tooth extraction depends on several factors, such as the number of teeth being removed, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's experience, and the use of sedation techniques. The type of extraction needed also plays a role, with five different types ranging from simple to difficult. To determine the price, an oral examination with x-rays is recommended.
After meeting with our oral surgeon and creating a personalized treatment plan, our team will provide a detailed cost estimate, including all potential expenses. We offer various payment options, and many insurance companies cover part of the cost. We also work with CareCredit® for financing options. Feel free to ask us any questions about payment options available at our practice.
Common Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
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For more information about our dental services or to schedule a consultation at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona, please contact us today.