Wisdom Teeth Removal

• • Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become trapped beneath the gums or in the jawbone, leading to pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also damage adjacent teeth.

• • Crowding: Emerging wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, causing crowding and misalignment.

• • Decay and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

• • Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors to develop, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding tissues.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

The process of removing wisdom teeth at Dental Partners of Creve Coeur involves several steps to ensure a safe and comfortable procedure:

1. 1. Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, Dr. Singh will evaluate your oral health, take digital X-rays, and determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. We will discuss your symptoms and recommend the best course of action for removal if necessary.
   2. Preparation: Before the procedure, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. In some cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used to ensure your comfort and relaxation during the procedure.
   3. Removal: Dr. Singh will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. If the tooth is impacted, it may be necessary to remove a small amount of bone to access the tooth. The tooth is then carefully removed, either in one piece or in sections to minimize damage to the surrounding bone and tissues.
   4. Stitches: After the tooth is removed, the incision site may be closed with stitches to promote healing. In some cases, dissolvable stitches are used, which do not need to be removed later.
   5. Gauze Placement: A piece of gauze is placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote clot formation.

Aftercare and Recovery

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth recovery following wisdom teeth removal. Here are some tips for post-operative care:

• • Rest and Recovery: Plan to rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.

• • Manage Pain and Swelling: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by Dr. Singh to manage discomfort. Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, to reduce swelling.

• • Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first few days, avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

• • Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water starting 24 hours after the procedure. Avoid brushing the extraction site directly for the first few days to prevent irritation.

• • Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by Dr. Singh to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removing problematic wisdom teeth can offer several benefits for your oral health and overall well-being:

• • Pain Relief: Eliminating impacted or infected wisdom teeth can relieve pain and discomfort.

• • Preventing Complications: Removing wisdom teeth can prevent future dental issues, such as crowding, decay, and gum disease.

• • Improved Oral Health: Removing hard-to-clean wisdom teeth can reduce the risk of oral infections and improve overall oral hygiene.

• • Protecting Adjacent Teeth: Removing wisdom teeth can prevent damage to neighboring teeth and maintain proper alignment.

Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Right for You?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure recommended for many patients experiencing complications related to their wisdom teeth. During your consultation, Dr. Singh will assess your specific dental needs and discuss the benefits and potential challenges of wisdom teeth removal. Ideal candidates for the procedure typically have:

• • Impacted wisdom teeth

• • Pain, swelling, or infection related to wisdom teeth

• • Crowding or misalignment caused by emerging wisdom teeth

• • Difficulty cleaning the back of the mouth due to the presence of wisdom teeth

Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms related to your wisdom teeth or if it’s time for an evaluation, contact Dental Partners of Creve Coeur to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sartaj Singh. Our team is here to provide you with the highest quality care and ensure your oral health remains in optimal condition. Discover the benefits of wisdom teeth removal and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable smile today.