Wisdom teeth removal is a common rite of passage for many young adults and teenagers. These third molars typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties and often cause problems due to lack of space in the mouth. At Barrington Smiles, Dr. Milad Saad offers expert wisdom teeth removal in South Barrington to ensure a smooth, comfortable experience.
This blog post will explore why we often remove wisdom teeth, signs you may need the procedure, and what you can expect before, during, and after the removal process.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last molars to develop. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Historically, these teeth were necessary for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and a diet that required more chewing power. Today, however, our diets and dental care practices have changed, and most people’s jaws are not large enough to accommodate these extra teeth.
When there isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to come in properly, they can cause various dental issues, including overcrowding, infection, and pain.
Why is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
While not everyone will need their wisdom teeth removed, many people experience complications that make extraction necessary. Here are some common reasons why we may recommend wisdom teeth removal in South Barrington:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge properly, they can become impacted. This means the teeth are trapped beneath the gums or only partially erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. They are also more challenging to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Overcrowding
Wisdom teeth can put pressure on your existing teeth, causing them to shift or become overcrowded. This pressure can undo years of orthodontic work or lead to misalignment, making it challenging to maintain good oral hygiene.
Infection and Decay
Because wisdom teeth are at the back of the mouth, they are harder to clean properly. Bacteria and food particles can easily get trapped around partially erupted wisdom teeth, leading to gum infections and tooth decay. If left untreated, these infections can spread and affect nearby teeth.
Cysts and Tumors
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These growths can damage surrounding teeth, gums, and bone, requiring more complex treatment.
Pain and Discomfort
Many people experience pain and discomfort as their wisdom teeth try to emerge. This discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. Removing the wisdom teeth can alleviate this pain and prevent further complications.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’re unsure whether you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, here are some signs that it may be time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Milad Saad at Barrington Smiles:
- Pain or tenderness in the back of your mouth
- Swollen or bleeding gums around the wisdom teeth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Jaw pain or swelling
- Crowded or shifting teeth
If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking a professional evaluation is essential. Dr. Saad will take X-rays and examine your teeth and jaw to determine whether removal is necessary.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal in South Barrington
Wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure, but knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery is essential. Here’s an overview of the process at Barrington Smiles:
Consultation and Evaluation
Before scheduling the procedure, Dr. Saad will thoroughly examine your mouth, including taking X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. This evaluation helps determine whether removal is necessary and allows Dr. Saad to plan the best approach for your case.
Preparation and Anesthesia
On the day of the surgery, you’ll receive instructions on how to prepare. These instructions may include fasting for a certain period if you’ll receive sedation. Dr. Saad will discuss the different types of anesthesia available, including local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of your case and your comfort level.
- Local anesthesia numbs the area around the wisdom teeth and is for less complex extractions.
- Sedation may help you relax during the procedure, though you will remain awake.
- General anesthesia is reserved for more complex cases and puts you to sleep during the surgery.
Dr. Saad will help you decide which option is best for you.
The Extraction Procedure
During the procedure, Dr. Saad will carefully remove the wisdom teeth. If you have impacted teeth, an incision will be made in the gum to access the tooth. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier. Once we remove the teeth, we suture the gums to promote healing and place the gauze over the area to control bleeding.
The process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth we remove and the complexity of the case.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following wisdom teeth removal, the recovery process is crucial to ensuring proper healing and minimizing complications. Here’s what to expect after your procedure:
Immediate Aftercare
After the procedure, we will monitor you briefly to ensure no immediate complications. You’ll need someone to drive you home if you’ve received sedation or general anesthesia.
It’s normal to experience some swelling, pain, and mild bleeding for the first few days. Dr. Saad will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
- Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication
- Changing gauze pads as needed
- Eating soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies
- Avoiding strenuous activities for the first few days
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean during the healing process is vital to prevent infection. However, avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area and reduce swelling.
Signs of Complications
While wisdom teeth removal in South Barrington is generally safe, it’s essential to be aware of potential complications such as:
- Dry socket: Dry socket is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot protecting the extraction site becomes dislodged. This can expose the bone and nerves, causing significant pain. If you suspect a dry socket, contact Dr. Saad immediately.
- Infection: If you notice increased swelling, redness, fever, or pus, it could indicate an infection that requires prompt treatment.
- Nerve damage: In rare cases, wisdom teeth removal can result in temporary or permanent numbness in the lips, tongue, or chin.
If you experience any unusual symptoms during recovery, don’t hesitate to contact Barrington Smiles for assistance.
Why Choose Barrington Smiles for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At Barrington Smiles in South Barrington, Dr. Milad Saad and his team provide comfortable, safe, and practical wisdom teeth removal. Here’s why patients trust Dr. Saad for their oral surgery needs:
- Expertise and experience: Dr. Saad has extensive experience performing wisdom teeth extractions, ensuring the best possible outcome for each patient.
- Personalized care: Every patient is unique, and Dr. Saad takes the time to create a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
- Comfort and safety: Barrington Smiles offers a range of anesthesia options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, and we follow strict safety protocols to minimize risks.
- Comprehensive aftercare: Dr. Saad and his team provide detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in South Barrington
If you suspect you need your wisdom teeth removed, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Dr. Milad Saad at Barrington Smiles is here to help with expert wisdom teeth removal in South Barrington. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.