Wisdom Tooth Removal in Los Angeles, CA
There are many reasons that patients undergo wisdom tooth removal here in Los Angeles. One of the primary reasons for removal is to correct or prevent this third set of molars from becoming impacted. In some cases, patients may never develop wisdom teeth, and others may never experience any issues in the way the teeth naturally erupt.
In most cases, wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 14 and 20. If they erupt problematically, they can grow at an angle toward the second molar, back toward the throat, lying down within the jawbone, or the teeth can even stay trapped within the jaw.
Patients who experience impacted wisdom teeth suffer from a myriad of symptoms, including:
- Headache, jaw, or facial pain
- Trapping food and plaque within the teeth
- Infection
- Bone loss and damage to the adjacent teeth
The Procedure
Jaw Surgery Los Angeles surgeons performs wisdom teeth removal as an outpatient procedure in our AAAHC certified OR en suite.
During the procedure, the doctor in Los Angeles attending, will make an incision in the gum in order to access the tooth and root. Once the tooth is extracted, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon will then clean the area and stitch the wound. In order to promote clotting, gauze will be placed over the extraction site.
Recovery
It is typical for patients to experience swelling and bruising after their procedure. Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter or prescription medication in order to alleviate some of the residual pain from the surgery. It is also typically recommended that you refrain from drinking any alcohol, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot beverages for 24 hours following the surgery. Patients should avoid drinking out of straws since the suction could pose a risk to the healing wound.
It is imperative that you avoid brushing your teeth during the first 24 hours. During this time, you will likely be placed on a soft-food diet until the wound has reached a safe level of healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do wisdom teeth erupt?
Wisdom teeth typically erupt between the ages of 14 and 20.
Will I need anesthesia?
Your doctor will recommend one of three options for anesthesia, depending on your preference and needs.
Will I need to change my diet during recovery?
Yes, you will be placed on a soft-food diet until the wound from the extraction has reached an adequate level of healing.