Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. However, for many individuals, the jaw lacks sufficient space to accommodate these additional teeth, leading to potential complications. At Chicago Surgical Specialists in Park Ridge, IL, we understand that wisdom teeth removal can be a source of anxiety. Rest assured, this is a common procedure performed by our experienced oral surgeons with a focus on your comfort and safety.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars to emerge in your mouth. They are located at the very back of your jaw. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, but some individuals may have fewer or even none at all.
Because they often enter a smile that is already quite crowded, the wisdom teeth face a particularly high risk for impaction. In other words, they frequently remain trapped under gum or bone, as opposed to erupting as normal.
It is common for wisdom teeth to become impacted under other teeth or to rub against them due to crowding. Therefore, health issues that can harm the wisdom teeth (the increased risks of decay, misalignment, and gum disease) may also harm the teeth the wisdom teeth rub against or are trapped by. For these reasons, it is often advisable to pursue wisdom teeth removal sooner rather than later.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
While some wisdom teeth may emerge without causing problems, many individuals experience complications that necessitate their removal. These issues include:
- Discomfort around the impacted teeth. When your wisdom teeth become trapped under layers of tissue, it can lead to chronic discomfort.
- Infection in and around the gums. Impacted teeth are more difficult to clean, which may lead to the formation of pockets and food trapping. This leads to inflammation and increased bacteria in the area. This can significantly raise your risk for an infection, which can spread throughout your mouth.
- Damage to adjacent teeth. Not only can infected wisdom teeth spread disease to healthy, adjacent teeth, but they can also push against those teeth, leading to potential damage.
- Cysts around the jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth often result in the development of small cysts across the jaw. These cysts are often uncomfortable, making wisdom teeth removal a top priority.
A Walkthrough of Our Process
Initial Evaluation
Your wisdom teeth removal journey begins with an evaluation appointment, allowing your oral surgeon an opportunity to assess overall medical health, as well as an oral exam, and confirm your need for wisdom teeth removal. This is also a good opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the rest of the process.
Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you will be welcomed back to a private treatment room in our fully accredited facility. Anesthesia and sedation will be administered to promote your safety and to keep you comfortable. From there, your surgeon will remove the wisdom teeth and close the incision sites. This process usually takes less than an hour in total.
Recovery
Following your wisdom teeth removal, you will need to allow a few days for rest and healing. Most patients who have their wisdom teeth removed on a Thursday or Friday are ready to resume their normal activities by Monday. During this recovery period, you can use over-the-counter remedies to manage discomfort. It is also important to follow all aftercare instructions you are provided, including dietary instructions. Generally, this means sticking with a soft foods and a liquid diet for the first few days, gradually shifting back to your normal diet as you feel able.
You’re in Good Hands with Chicago Surgical Specialists
Our doctors are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with extensive experience in wisdom teeth removal. They are dedicated to providing gentle and compassionate care, utilizing advanced techniques to minimize discomfort and promote a smooth recovery. You can trust that you’re in skilled hands throughout your wisdom teeth removal journey.
With our experienced team and patient-centered approach, you can feel confident in your choice to have your wisdom teeth removed at Chicago Surgical Specialists. We’ll be with you every step of the way, promoting a comfortable and successful experience. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation at (847) 268-3910 and discuss your wisdom teeth removal options in the Park Ridge, IL community.