Wisdom Teeth Removal in McKinney TX | Oral Surgeon Consultations

Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal in McKinney, TX

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to erupt in the mouth typically between the ages of 17 to 25. Many people have their wisdom teeth removed due to lack of space in the jaw, alignment issues, or problematic symptoms. If you live in or around McKinney, TX, you may be considering wisdom teeth removal.

Why People Get Their Wisdom Teeth Removed

There are several common reasons people get their wisdom teeth removed:

• Impaction - Wisdom teeth become impacted when there is not enough room for them to fully erupt in the mouth. This can cause pain, infection, cysts, damage to neighboring teeth, and other dental problems.
• Poor alignment - Wisdom teeth may grow in at awkward angles, making them difficult to clean. This can increase the risk of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
• Recurring infections - Partially erupted wisdom teeth are prone to infections like pericoronitis. This can cause repeated pain, swelling, and other symptoms.
• Orthodontic issues - Wisdom teeth can disrupt braces or aligners by causing crowding, shifting, or other movement of nearby teeth.
• Cysts/tumors - Cysts or tumors may form around impacted wisdom teeth, requiring removal of the teeth and cyst/tumor.
• Tooth crowding - Some people elect to remove wisdom teeth to prevent crowding as their mouth naturally shrinks with age.

Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

If your dentist recommends wisdom tooth extraction, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Talk to your dentist - Discuss the reason for removal, procedure details, recovery time, and post-op care recommendations.
• Schedule time off - Plan for at least a few days off work or school to recover.
• Arrange transportation - You will need someone to drive you home after surgery.
• Get pain medication - Fill prescriptions for pain relievers beforehand so you have them ready.
• Stock up on soft foods - Buy items like yogurt, apple sauce, soup broth, and smoothies.
• Care for other teeth - Get any dental cleanings or procedures done first before extracting wisdom teeth.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Wisdom tooth extraction procedures differ based on the tooth’s positioning and anatomy, but typically involve the following steps:

1. Numbing - The area around the tooth will be numbed with local anesthetic.
2. Cutting - The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue around the tooth.
3. Removing bone - Some bone around the tooth may be removed with a drill or hand tool.
4. Extracting - The tooth is loosened from the bone and gently removed.
5. Stitching - The incision site is closed with stitches that resorb over time.

The extraction takes from 5 to 30 minutes depending on the tooth. Your dentist will let you know what to expect with your specific case.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in McKinney, TX

The cost of wisdom teeth removal in McKinney varies based on several factors, such as:

• Dentist's location and qualifications
• Number of teeth being extracted
• Level of impaction
• Need for bone grafting or stitches
• Type of anesthesia used
• Additional procedures, like exposures

According to national estimates, you can expect to pay:

• $150 - $300 per tooth for simple extractions
• $250 - $600 per tooth for soft tissue impactions
• $300 - $800 for partial bony impactions
• $500 - $1,200+ for full bony impactions

More complex cases requiring surgical extractions, bone grafts, or IV sedation will fall on the higher end. Get an exact wisdom teeth removal quote from your oral surgeon during a comprehensive exam.

Post-Op Wisdom Teeth Removal Care

Proper aftercare can help minimize pain, swelling, and other discomfort during wisdom teeth removal recovery. Tips include:

• Rest - Take it easy for the first 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity.
• Ice pack - Use an ice pack on your jaw for 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
• Pain management - Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist.
• Bite gently - Avoid hard, crunchy foods. Stick to soft foods.
• Oral hygiene - Gently rinse with warm salt water after eating.
• Follow up - See your dentist as recommended to monitor healing.

With proper at-home care and checkups, you can ensure smooth healing after wisdom teeth removal. Contact your McKinney, TX oral surgeon to learn more.

Finding a Qualified McKinney Oral Surgeon

When choosing an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth extraction or any oral surgery procedure, you want to look for these qualifications and features:

• Advanced training and education - Board eligible or board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
• Extensive experience - Regularly performs wisdom tooth extractions and other oral surgeries.
• Latest technology - Uses modern tools and 3D imaging for precise diagnoses and treatments.
• Strong reviews - Highly rated by patients for skill, bedside manner, and results.
• Good communication - Explains your condition, procedure details, and post-op care clearly.
• Convenience - Offers flexible scheduling and extended hours when possible.

Doing your research helps you find an oral surgeon you can trust for your wisdom teeth or any oral health needs. Contact highly rated McKinney, TX oral surgeons for consultations.

Frequently Asked Questions About McKinney Wisdom Tooth Removal

How long does wisdom teeth removal take to heal?

Healing time after wisdom teeth removal is typically 1-2 weeks but can vary. With proper aftercare, you should see gradual improvement in pain, swelling, and other symptoms over this period.

Can wisdom teeth removal be done under local anesthesia?

Wisdom tooth extraction can be performed under local anesthesia, but intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is more common, especially for impacted teeth. Discuss anesthesia options with your oral surgeon.

How painful is it to get wisdom teeth removed?

Most patients experience moderate pain and discomfort during the first few days after wisdom tooth extraction. Prescription pain medication and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain.

Can wisdom teeth removal cause permanent nerve damage?

In rare cases, wisdom tooth removal may cause temporary or permanent nerve damage resulting in lip, tongue, cheek, or chin numbness. Your risk depends on the tooth's location and nerve proximity.

Should wisdom teeth removal stitches be dissolved or removed?

Most oral surgeons use dissolvable stitches for wisdom tooth extraction sites. The stitches slowly absorb over time, eliminating the need for removal.

FAQs

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

Recovery time after wisdom teeth removal typically takes around 1-2 weeks. You will likely experience some swelling and pain for the first few days. This should gradually subside over the following weeks as you heal. Be sure to follow your dentist's post-op care instructions.

What are the risks of wisdom teeth removal?

As with any surgery, wisdom tooth extraction carries some risks. These include nerve damage resulting in numbness, sinus issues, and dry socket (painful condition when blood clot is lost). However, when performed by an experienced oral surgeon, complications are rare.

When do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Many dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal in the late teens or early 20s before the teeth become impacted or cause issues. However, the right timing depends on your specific circumstances and whether the teeth are problematic.

Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?

Wisdom tooth removal is often uncomfortable, but the procedure itself is not painful thanks to local or general anesthetic. Post-operative pain is common but manageable with medication prescribed by your oral surgeon.

How much does it cost to get wisdom teeth removed?

The cost for wisdom tooth extraction ranges from $150 - $1,200 per tooth depending on the type of impaction and surgery complexity. Your oral surgeon can provide an accurate quote after examination.