Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure that many teens and adults undergo to maintain their oral health. It’s completely normal to have concerns and questions about the process.Â
Our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Husam Elias and Dr. Pouya Vakilian, will give you a top-notch experience at Southern California Center for Surgical Arts. Their years of expertise with oral and maxillofacial surgery, along with the dedication of our caring staff, let you know you’re in excellent hands. Come see us in Sherman Oaks or Pasadena for your wisdom teeth removal consultation.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are also known as your third molars. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth are the last to come in, located at the very back of your mouth. For some, wisdom teeth emerge without any issues. However, many people experience problems due to a lack of space in the mouth, which is why they have them extracted.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth often cause various problems, including:
- Impaction: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to your surrounding teeth.
- Overcrowding:Â Extra teeth can crowd your existing teeth, causing alignment issues.
- Infection:Â Partially emerged wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria. This can lead to painful infections.
- Decay:Â Difficult-to-clean wisdom teeth are more prone to cavities and gum disease.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
Our team at Southern California Center for Surgical Arts intends for the extraction to be as comfortable and straightforward as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation:Â A skilled oral surgeon will evaluate your teeth using X-rays to determine the best approach for extraction.
- Anesthesia:Â We offer various anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, sedation, and general anesthesia.
- Extraction:Â During the procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue, remove any bone blocking access to the tooth root, and extract the tooth. The incision is then cleaned and stitched up.
- Post-Procedure: You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to manage pain and promote healing.
Recovery and Aftercare
It usually takes a few days to a week to recover from wisdom teeth extraction. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Pain Management:Â Use prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your surgeon.
- Rest:Â Take it easy for the first couple of days. Avoid strenuous activities that could disrupt the blood clot forming in the socket and cause bleeding.
- Diet:Â Eat only soft foods and stay away from hot or spicy foods that might irritate the extraction site.
- Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean, but don’t brush near the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Use a saltwater rinse to keep the area clean.
Why Choose Southern California Center for Surgical Arts?
Your needs and goals are our top priority at Southern California Center for Surgical Arts. Our experienced surgeons, Dr. Husam Elias and Dr. Pouya Vakilian, take the time to understand your individual concerns. Whether you need oral surgery, maxillofacial procedures, or cosmetic enhancements, we focus on delivering outstanding results in a welcoming environment with the latest technology.
Dr. Elias brings extensive experience from his roles at the Cleveland Clinic and Kaiser Permanente. Dr. Vakilian, a Harvard-trained specialist, excels in minimally invasive techniques, reducing pain and recovery time. Their combined expertise covers a wide range of procedures, from facial contouring and rejuvenation to corrective jaw surgery and TMJ management, making them well-equipped to handle your wisdom teeth removal needs in Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Symptoms such as pain, swelling, infection, or crowding may indicate that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted. A consultation with our specialists can provide a definitive answer.
Is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Painful?
With modern anesthesia and pain management techniques, wisdom teeth extraction is a fairly comfortable procedure. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the surgery.
Does Everyone Need to Have Their Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
No, not everyone needs wisdom teeth extracted. Some people have enough space for them to come in without issues. However, problems like overcrowding, infection, or decay can necessitate removal. We can evaluate your situation to determine if extraction is needed.
Should I Have Wisdom Teeth Removed Before Having Other Oral Surgery or Orthodontic Treatments?
We often recommend removing wisdom teeth before other oral surgeries or orthodontic treatments. Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding and alignment issues that interfere with treatments like braces. Consult your dental professional for personalized advice.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Los Angeles
At Southern California Center for Surgical Arts, our team is here to make your wisdom teeth removal process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Call our Sherman Oaks office at 818-789-6622 or our Pasadena office at 626-440-0099 to schedule your consultation today.
