Wisdom Teeth Removal in Folsom, CA
Prevent Oral Health Complications
Many people develop an extra set of molars between the ages of 17 and 25. These molars, known as wisdom teeth, should be removed as soon as possible because the average mouth does not have room for extra molars. Our surgeons at Golden Foothills Oral, Facial, & Dental Implant Surgery perform wisdom tooth extractions in the comfort of our Folsom, CA, office.
Dr. Liberty and Dr. Song use the latest dental technology to produce detailed 3D images of the face and mouth and create detailed surgical plans to increase safety and precision. If it's time for you or your child to have wisdom teeth removed, or for an oral health evaluation, we invite you to contact us in Folsom to schedule an appointment.
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Some people develop all four wisdom teeth, while others develop only a few, more than four, or none at all. When the jaw is too small to accommodate wisdom teeth, pain and swelling can occur. Wisdom teeth increase the risk of developing gum disease and can damage adjacent molars as they try to squeeze in. They can push your teeth out of alignment and cause overcrowding or bite problems.
Dentists and oral surgeons recommend having wisdom teeth extracted as soon as they start to develop because extraction is easier and younger patients tend to heal faster. However, our team at Golden Foothills Oral, Facial, & Dental Implant Surgery can perform wisdom tooth removal for patients of any age.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When a tooth is stuck beneath the gums and cannot erupt, it is considered impacted. A partially impacted wisdom tooth is one that has partially erupted through the gums, while a fully impacted wisdom tooth remains trapped beneath the gums. Partially impacted teeth easily trap cavity-causing bacteria and are difficult to clean, while fully impacted teeth push against other teeth below the surface, causing damage.
Surgical extraction is necessary for impacted wisdom teeth because they will not erupt on their own. By having wisdom teeth extracted, whether they are partially impacted, fully impacted, or erupted, you protect yourself from future problems caused by third molars.
Signs and Symptoms of Third Molars
Many people suspect wisdom teeth because of pain in the back of the mouth. However, not everyone experiences discomfort due to third molars. If you experience pain and any of these signs below, it may be time to have your wisdom teeth removed:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Jaw pain
- Pain or swelling at the back of the mouth
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Difficulty fully opening the jaw
In some cases, you may not experience any of these symptoms although wisdom teeth are present. If you can see the top of a wisdom tooth poking through the gums or if it's been a while since your last dental visit, contact our practice today. We will take 3D scans of your mouth and determine if you have wisdom teeth and if it's time to have them removed.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
We often combine IV sedation and local anesthesia for wisdom teeth removal. IV sedation renders you into a semi-conscious state, unable to feel pain, and local anesthesia numbs the area to provide pain relief during and shortly after your procedure.
After the anesthesia takes effect, your surgeon will extract erupted wisdom teeth using forceps. If teeth are impacted, your surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue and carefully extract the tooth. We will place sutures as needed and you will rest in our office until the sedation wears off.
The surgery itself takes about 30–60 minutes. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and remain with you for 24 hours. We will provide instructions to follow, which outline how to brush your teeth, care for your extraction sites, and which foods to avoid during recovery.
Types of Anesthesia
We offer many anesthesia and sedation options for your safety and comfort.
Hear From Wisdom Teeth Removal Patients
These patients can tell you about their firsthand experience undergoing wisdom teeth removal at our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to have wisdom teeth removed?
The number of teeth you need to have extracted, your insurance, your choice of anesthesia, and the surgery overall will determine the cost of your wisdom teeth removal. To find out how much your procedure would cost, contact our Folsom, CA, office. We will provide you with a cost estimate for wisdom teeth removal during your first visit.
Does a dentist remove your wisdom teeth?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are most qualified to extract wisdom teeth because they specialize in oral surgery, which includes wisdom teeth removal. Dentists can perform simple tooth extractions, but for more complex cases or procedures that involve sedation, you should see an oral surgeon for care.
How painful is wisdom teeth removal?
Our staff makes every effort to ensure a comfortable surgical experience. Some discomfort can be expected with any surgery. Swelling usually peaks on the third day following surgery and then subsides. You can manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medications, ice packs, and allowing your body to rest during the recovery period.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot inside a tooth socket becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves underneath. Do not rinse your mouth, use straws, or smoke during recovery as it can dislodge the blood clot. If you suspect a blood clot after wisdom teeth removal, contact our office right away.
The New Standard of Oral Surgery and Patient Care
We are honored to be a part of the greater Sacramento area and help others improve their health and confidence through oral and maxillofacial surgery. Please contact us in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, or Auburn today to learn more about our services or to schedule your consultation.