Wisdom Teeth Removal in McKinney TX - What to Expect

Wisdom Teeth Removal in McKinney, TX - What to Expect

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure that many young adults face. As your third molars grow in, they can cause pain, infection, and crowding of your other teeth. That's why dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth even if they haven't caused any problems yet. But if you’re not familiar with the process, wisdom teeth extraction can sound intimidating.

The good news is that wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure performed by oral surgeons in McKinney, TX. When done by an experienced professional, it is minimally invasive and recovery is quick. Keep reading to learn what to expect from wisdom teeth extraction in McKinney.

Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled?

How do you know if you need your wisdom teeth removed? There are a few key signs that indicate it's time to see an oral surgeon:

• Pain or soreness around the wisdom teeth
• Inflammation, swelling, or infection in the gums around the wisdom teeth
• Cysts or tumors forming around the wisdom teeth
• Tooth decay starting in the wisdom teeth
• Damage or resorption to the adjacent teeth caused by the wisdom teeth
• Misalignment of the wisdom teeth, causing crowding or biting issues

Some people experience symptoms as their wisdom teeth are erupting through the gums. But for others, problems don't arise until much later. That's why dental providers recommend regular checkups and x-rays to monitor wisdom teeth.

During your appointment, your dentist in McKinney will be able to tell you if extraction is recommended based on the position of your wisdom teeth and any symptoms you may be having.

Choosing an Oral Surgeon in McKinney, TX

Extractions are performed by an oral surgeon, not a general dentist. Oral surgeons complete four additional years of training beyond dental school, allowing them to safely perform tooth extractions and other surgical procedures. When choosing an oral surgeon in McKinney for wisdom tooth removal, here are a few factors to consider:

• Experience and training - Look for a provider who is board-certified in oral surgery and has significant experience performing extractions, especially wisdom teeth removal.
• Sedation options - Many patients prefer to be sedated during the extraction procedure. Find a provider who offers different sedation choices such as local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, or general anesthesia.
• Office environment - The oral surgery office should make you feel comfortable and at ease before, during, and after your procedure.
• Reviews - Read reviews from other patients to learn about the provider’s bedside manner, skill level, and how well they explain the procedures.

Doing your research will help you find the right oral surgeon to perform your wisdom tooth extraction. Be sure to schedule a consultation ahead of time to discuss your options.

Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Once you’ve scheduled your wisdom teeth extraction, your oral surgeon will provide detailed instructions to prepare. Here are some tips:

• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure since you will likely be sedated.
• Adjust your schedule to have 1-3 days off work or school to recover.
• Avoid blood thinning medications like aspirin which can increase bleeding.
• Stock up on soft foods to eat while recovering like yogurt, soup, applesauce, and pudding.
• Set up your recovery area at home with pillows, ice packs, gauze, pain medication, etc.

Follow all of your provider’s recommendations such as not eating or drinking past midnight if you’ll be sedated. This helps ensure your procedure goes smoothly and safely.

The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure

When the day of your surgery arrives, don’t stress! Wisdom tooth extraction is quick and routine. Here’s what you can expect:

• You’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. You’ll also have the option for nitrous oxide or IV sedation to help you relax.
• Your oral surgeon will make small incisions in the gum tissue around the impacted wisdom teeth.
• They’ll loosen and remove the wisdom teeth, sometimes cutting them into smaller pieces if needed.
• After removing the teeth, the surgeon will rinse the sockets thoroughly.
• They will close the incisions with sutures that will dissolve on their own.
• The whole process takes about 30-90 minutes depending on if you have one or all four wisdom teeth removed.

With modern tools and anesthesia options, you’ll be comfortable throughout the entire tooth extraction process. And you won’t have any memory of it if you opt for IV sedation.

Recovery & Post-Op Care

While wisdom tooth removal surgery itself is quick, recovery does take some time. Following postoperative instructions helps reduce risks of bleeding and infection. Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery.
• Take it easy and rest at home for 1-3 days.
• Control swelling by icing your cheeks for the first 24 hours.
• Stick to soft foods.
• Rinse gently with saltwater after meals.
• Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain medication as directed.
• Avoid vigorous activity, exercise, smoking, drinking from a straw for at least 3-5 days.
• Sutures will dissolve within 5-10 days.

Recovery time varies for each person. Most of the swelling and soreness subsides within a week. But it can take a couple weeks for your gums to fully heal. Take it slow and follow your surgeon's recovery instructions. Let them know if you have any concerns.

Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Getting your wisdom teeth out is a wise preventative measure. When these third molars only partially emerge or come in crooked, they often need to be removed before causing bigger problems. Here are benefits you’ll enjoy after a wisdom tooth extraction:

• Relief from pain, swelling and infection
• No more damage to surrounding teeth
• Improved ability to clean your teeth
• Correction of bite alignment issues
• Decreased risk of cysts and tumors
• Peace of mind knowing your wisdom teeth won't cause future problems

While no one wants to get teeth pulled, wisdom tooth extraction has clear advantages. Removing symptomatic wisdom teeth can improve your oral health.

Find an Experienced Oral Surgeon in McKinney, TX

If your dentist has recommended getting your wisdom teeth removed, don't delay. Consult with a skilled oral surgeon in McKinney, TX to learn about your treatment options. With modern tools and techniques, you can have wisdom teeth extraction safely performed right here in McKinney.

From consultation to surgery to recovery, an experienced oral surgeon will make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. You’ll be feeling better and enjoying a healthier mouth before you know it. Don't live with pain or wait for your wisdom teeth problems to get worse. Take control of your oral health today!

FAQs

How long does wisdom teeth removal take?

The actual surgery to remove your wisdom teeth takes between 30-90 minutes depending on if you are having one tooth removed or all four. Total time at your oral surgeon's office is longer, allowing for preparation, anesthesia, and recovery monitoring.

How long is recovery after wisdom teeth removal?

The initial recovery period is about 1-2 weeks. You'll need to take it easy for the first 3-5 days. Swelling should go down within 5-10 days. But it can take 2 weeks for your gums to fully heal. Complete healing takes about 6 weeks.

How painful is wisdom teeth removal?

Thanks to local anesthesia during surgery, you should feel minimal pain during the extraction. Some soreness, pain, and swelling are normal during the recovery period. Over-the-counter pain medication can help manage discomfort.

Can wisdom teeth removal be done with just local anesthesia?

Yes, wisdom teeth extractions can be done using just local anesthesia to numb the area. But many patients prefer IV sedation or general anesthesia to be completely asleep and comfortable during surgery.

When can I return to work after wisdom teeth removal?

Plan to take 2-3 days off work for recovery. If your job requires heavy physical activity, you may need up to 7 days off. Most people can return to desk work within 2-4 days after oral surgery.