Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Guilderland, NY
Reliable Wisdom Teeth Care
If the wisdom teeth are so smart, then why are they the most commonly extracted teeth? It comes down to a simple reason: most people just don’t have enough room for them in their mouth, so when they start to come in (usually around the ages of 17-25), they can become stuck within the gums and lead to all kinds of problems. Fortunately, Dr. Oshins can extract them right here at our dental office so local families can get everything they need to evaluate their needs before visiting a specialist. If you or your teen are experiencing wisdom teeth issues, be sure to give us a call to discuss options for wisdom tooth extractions in Guilderland, NY.
Why Choose Oshins of Smiles for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- High-Tech & Friendly Dental Office
- Years of Experience Treating Adults & Teens
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments Available
What are Wisdom Teeth?
The wisdom teeth are actually a third set of molars. While they proved very useful for our caveman ancestors (who dealt with much more tooth loss than modern humans), today, they only tend to be a nuisance. It’s believed they are intended to replace the molars in front of them, which for most young adults WAY back when, would have been worn down and broken thanks to a rough diet consisting mostly of uncooked vegetables and dried meats.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
When the wisdom teeth become stuck, or impacted, this can create a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including pain towards the back of the mouth, shifting teeth, a flap in the gums that traps food, and even an infection. Typically, the best way to stop these issues and prevent others from developing in the future is to simply remove these teeth. The procedure usually takes just one or two appointments depending on the number of teeth, and the recovery time is often less than a week.
What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
The very first step is always the same: numbing your mouth. That way, you don’t feel any pain during your time in the treatment chair. Once you’re ready to begin, our talented and experienced emergency dentist will gently grip the tooth, rock it loose, and extract it. Unless, of course, the wisdom tooth that needs to be removed is trapped underneath your gumline. In that case, Dr. Oshins will need to make an incision in your gums first to access it. Then, he will remove it piece by piece, helping to preserve your jawbone in the process.
Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction
After we’ve removed your wisdom teeth, we will send you home with aftercare instructions, like:
- Take prescribed or OTC pain medication (as directed)
- Stick to soft foods, like plain yogurt
- Avoid using a straw, smoking, or spitting
- Change the gauze as needed
- Keep your head elevated
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
- Use a cold compress to alleviate swelling
Wisdom Tooth Extractions FAQs
How Do You Make Wisdom Teeth Pain Go Away?
The only solution for long-term relief is to have them extracted. That said, there are a few things you can do to alleviate any pain or discomfort you’re feeling if your procedure is still a few days away. Using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time is a great place to start. Outside of that, avoid crunchy foods, rinse periodically with warm saltwater, and take OTC pain medication as directed.
Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed If They Don’t Hurt?
If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing you any pain, but they do increase your risk of serious oral health problems, like infections and cysts, you should have them removed. If you have any questions about your treatment, including why your dentist recommends it, don’t hesitate to ask! They can review your X-rays, share their reasoning, and let you know what could happen if you don’t get the care you need now. That way, you feel completely confident moving forward.
What Can I Eat After Wisdom Tooth Surgery?
Following your wisdom tooth surgery, you need to wait a few hours to eat (it typically takes that long for the numbing agent to wear off). After that, you need to avoid all hot, spicy, crunchy, sugary, and cold foods. Instead, eat bland foods that are extremely soft, like plain yogurt. As you begin to heal, you’ll be able to expand your diet to scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and other more satiating foods. About a week later, you should be able to eat all of your favorite foods again without worry.
How Should I Prepare for My Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Prior to your procedure, our Guilderland dental team will tell you what to do and what not to do. A few examples include asking someone you know and trust to drive you to and from your appointment, purchasing anything you need, like OTC pain medication, and avoiding tobacco products. The night before, do your best to get plenty of sleep. Then, the morning of your wisdom tooth extraction, choose something comfortable to wear and, if you’re being sedated, don’t eat anything (this will help prevent feelings of nausea).
Are Wisdom Tooth Extractions Covered by Insurance?
Since wisdom tooth extractions are typically medically necessary, the answer is “yes.” In fact, many dental insurance providers cover around 50% of the cost! That said, there is red tape that needs to be considered, including if your plan has waiting periods or you’ve already met your annual maximum. The good news is that our team at Oshins of Smiles is here to help; we work with everyone’s insurance plan. Plus, patients who are currently uninsured can space out the cost of their care with CareCredit, ensuring there isn’t any stress when it comes to finances.
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