Wisdom Teeth Removal in Los Angeles
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to develop in our mouths.
These teeth typically emerge in early adulthood, often between the ages of 17 and 25. However, many people do not have enough space in their mouths to accommodate these additional teeth, which can lead to a range of dental problems.
When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow properly, they can become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line and cannot emerge fully.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, swelling, and damage to surrounding teeth and bone. As a result, many dentists recommend having wisdom teeth removed as a preventative measure.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort related to your wisdom teeth, contact us today for a consultation.
Why should I remove my wisdom teeth?
There are many solid reasons why you should consider removing your wisdom teeth, such as:
- Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Wisdom teeth can cause damage to surrounding teeth and bone.
- Wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums where bacteria can collect, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly with brushing and flossing, leading to decay and infection over time.
- Removing wisdom teeth early can prevent more serious problems from developing later in life.
- In rare cases, wisdom teeth can develop into tumors or cysts, making removal necessary to prevent further complications.
Why do we even have wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are thought to be a product of evolution that allowed early humans to effectively chew tough foods such as fibrous plants and meats.
However, due to changes in our diet and advancements in food processing, our jaws have become smaller, making it difficult for many people to accommodate these additional molars.
As a result, wisdom teeth can cause dental issues, hence why it’s advised to remove them early on.
How do I know if I should remove my wisdom teeth?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need to remove your wisdom teeth:
- Have dental pain near the back of your mouth.
- Trap food and debris around your wisdom teeth.
- Develop gum disease, particularly around your molars.
- Have tooth decay (cavities) in a partially erupted wisdom tooth.
- Develop a cyst (fluid-filled sac) around one or more wisdom teeth.
- Have sustained damage to nearby teeth or surrounding bone.
What happens during the procedure?
During wisdom teeth removal surgery, the oral surgeon will administer a local or general anesthesia to numb the area for a painless experience.
Next, the surgeon will create an incision in the gum tissue and, if necessary, remove any bone blocking the tooth. The tooth will then be extracted from the socket.
Once the tooth has been removed, the surgeon will clean the socket and place stitches to help the gums heal.
The entire procedure typically takes 45 minutes to an hour.
How long does it take to recover?
The recovery time for wisdom teeth removal surgery can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the extraction, the number of teeth removed, and the individual’s overall health.
Usually, the recovery time for wisdom teeth removal surgery can range from several days to a few weeks.
However, with proper care and attention to your oral health, you should be able to resume normal activities and enjoy a healthy, pain-free mouth in no time.
What can I eat & drink after surgery?
After wisdom teeth removal surgery, it’s important to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days.
Here are some foods and drinks you can consume during this time:
- Broth-based soups and clear, lukewarm broths
- Smoothies, milkshakes, and fruit juices (without pulp)
- Scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and cooked vegetables (such as carrots or green beans)
- Applesauce, yogurt, and pudding
- Cold or room temperature water
What are some aftercare tips?
Taking care of your oral health after surgery is critical. Here are some tips:
- Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep for the first few nights.
- Refrain from engaging in strenuous activities for 2-3 days.
- Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress or ice pack to your face.
- Keep the surgical area clean by gently rinsing them with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Avoid vigorous swishing, as it can displace blood clots and cause dry sockets. (Big no-no!)
- Take all medications, including antibiotics and pain relievers, as directed by your oral surgeon.
Why choose Los Angeles Oral Surgeons?
Los Angeles Oral Surgeons is the ideal destination for wisdom teeth removal in Los Angeles.
Our skilled oral surgeon, Dr. Nariman Saadat, has performed countless successful extractions and is dedicated to providing a comfortable experience for every patient.
Don’t be intimidated by wisdom teeth removal – at Los Angeles Oral Surgeons, we take every measure to ensure a painless and stress-free procedure, from start to finish.
Choose us for your dental extraction needs and put your worries to rest! Contact us or call (323) 612-1201 today.
