Safe and Comfortable Wisdom Teeth Removal in Lakeview, Chicago, IL
The wisdom teeth are the back molars, which usually emerge in the mouth in the later teen years or even early twenties. Even though most people have wisdom teeth, it’s common for there to be limited space in patient’s mouths for these molars to grow in. As a result, wisdom teeth often cause a variety of problems, which can lead to serious consequences in the future.
For this reason, it’s typical for local dentists to recommend wisdom teeth removal in Lakeview, Chicago, IL. At Re·gen Smile Studio, we take a proactive approach to protecting our patient’s oral health, and wisdom teeth removal is often part of the treatment plan.
Is it Necessary to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
Many patients ask the same question: if wisdom teeth are common, why do most people need them removed? There are several reasons why wisdom teeth surgery is a standard treatment for many patients:
- Wisdom teeth can result in overcrowding, which causes misalignment in your other teeth.
- Failing to remove wisdom teeth proactively might result in infected wisdom tooth removal in the future.
- If the wisdom teeth are impacted, then it can lead to cysts, infection, and damage to the neighboring teeth and jawbone.
- It’s difficult to clean wisdom teeth that are partially erupted, which increases the risk of gum disease and cavities.
- Proactively removing wisdom teeth can reduce the risk of dental complications later in life.
Keep in mind that getting your wisdom teeth out proactively allows you to schedule this treatment on your preferred timeline. If you don’t take them out early, then it could result in an emergency wisdom tooth extraction in the future.
What to Expect When You Are Having Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Your local dentist will review your digital x-rays to see the positioning of your wisdom teeth, then make a recommendation to remove these molars. During the procedure, local anesthesia is used to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. Sometimes, patients with anxiety, impacted wisdom teeth, or other dental complications might need sedation or general anesthesia for this appointment.
The dentist will carefully complete the wisdom tooth removal. Modern technology makes it easier than ever to remove the teeth quickly and smoothly, helping to reduce the risk of complications during the appointment.
Recovery and Care After Wisdom Teeth Removal
You will need someone to drive you home after the appointment. Your tooth removal sites will still be bleeding a bit, so you will be biting on gauze when you leave our dental office.
There are certain things that you should do to avoid wisdom teeth removal aftermath. Failing to follow the dentist’s instructions could result in infections, dry sockets, and complications. Your recovery will go smoother if you do these things:
- Control the bleeding by biting on gauze until the bleeding stops.
- Avoid spitting or using straws for a few days to avoid disruptions to the clot.
- Manage pain with prescription medication or over-the-counter medications.
- Use an ice pack on your face for 15 minutes at a time to help with swelling and pain management.
- Rest at home and avoid strenuous activities.
- Eat soft foods that don’t require much chewing, such as applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
- Maintain oral hygiene with brushing and flossing, but don’t brush near the extraction sites for the first 24 – 48 hours.
Frequent Asked
Questions
Local and/or general anesthesia is used during the appointment so you won’t feel any pain. Most patients report mild discomfort during recovery, but the pain can be managed using medication.
Most patients need a few days of recovery before they can return to their normal activities. Full recovery takes up to 2 weeks, but the swelling and sensitivity can sometimes last a little longer.
Yes, you can eat. Choose soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies for the first few days.
If you need to schedule an appointment for wisdom teeth removal, then call our nearby team at Re·gen Smile Studio. We offer full-service dental care for the whole family. Other available services include fillings, tooth restorations, dental implants, cosmetic treatments, and more. Book your consultation to receive a personalized dental treatment plan.
