Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure San Francisco, CA

Wisdom teeth have been a problem for humans for centuries. They often come in at an awkward angle, causing many problems. The good news is that wisdom teeth removal is a very common procedure that is performed by dentists and oral surgeons every day. It’s estimated that over 5 million people in the United States alone have their wisdom teeth removed every year. If you need your wisdom teeth removed, knowing what to expect before, during, and after the surgery is important.

At Young Dental SF Group, we understand that wisdom teeth removal can be daunting for some patients. That’s why we take the time to explain the entire procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. We also offer sedation options to help make the experience as comfortable as possible. If you need wisdom teeth removal in San Francisco by the best dentists in San Francisco, call (415) 392-8611 or complete the online booking form to schedule an appointment. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars most people get in their late teens or early twenties. While they used to be an important part of human dentition, they are now considered largely unnecessary. They often cause more problems than they are worth, which is why wisdom teeth removal is so common.

These teeth can cause several problems, including crowding nearby teeth, impaction and infection. When they become impacted, they are trapped beneath the gum line and unable to erupt properly. This can cause a great deal of pain as well as tooth decay and gum disease.

When Should Wisdom Teeth be Removed?

Most dentists and oral surgeons will recommend that wisdom teeth be removed before they cause any problems. This is because it is much easier to remove them when they are still young, and the roots have not fully developed. Recovery from removal is typically quicker and easier in younger patients.

The Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure

Before your surgical procedure, you will have a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. During this consultation, your surgeon will take a full medical history and assess your oral health to determine if wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action. You will also be given instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. You must follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful procedure.

Extraction is typically performed under local anesthesia, though sedation options are also available. The first step is to make an incision in the gum tissue so that the wisdom tooth can be accessed if it has not erupted. The tooth will then be removed either whole or in pieces, depending on its position and how easy it is to access. Once the tooth has been removed, the area will be stitched, and a gauze pad placed over the wound to control bleeding.

After Your Wisdom Tooth Procedure

You will be given post-operative instructions on caring for your mouth and what to expect in the days and weeks following your surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

Most patients experience some swelling and tenderness after their surgery which can be controlled with pain medication. It is common to have some bleeding from the surgical site, which can be controlled with gauze pads. To promote healing, it is important to keep the area clean and free from debris.

Most patients recover quickly and without any complications. However, if you experience any problems after your surgery, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

Do’s and Don’ts After the Procedure

There are a few things you should and shouldn’t do in the days following your oral surgery procedure.

Do:

• Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Take pain medication as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon
• Gently rinse your mouth with salt water to help keep the area clean
• Use an ice pack to reduce swelling 

Don’t:

• Drink alcohol or use tobacco products
• Eat hard, crunchy foods, or spicy foods
• Drink through a straw
• Touch or disturb the surgical site
• Rinse your mouth vigorously
• Spit excessively 

Sedation Options

There are a variety of sedation options available. Your dentist will discuss which option best suits your needs and anxiety level.

• Oral conscious sedation. This is a pill you will take before your procedure to help you relax. You will be awake during the procedure but may not remember much of it afterward.
• Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas). This is a gas you breathe in through a mask during your procedure. It will help you to relax, but you will be awake and able to communicate with your dentist.
• IV sedation. This is a stronger form of sedation administered through an IV. You will not be unconscious, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation and may not remember much of the procedure.
• General anesthesia. This is the strongest form of sedation. You will be completely asleep during the procedure. 

Risks of Wisdom Tooth Removal

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with removal. These risks include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness or pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Dry socket
• Damage to teeth, nerves, or other tissues

Most of these risks can be minimized by following your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions carefully and attending all follow-up appointments.

What Is Dry Socket?

Dry socket is a condition that can occur after tooth removal. It occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after surgery is dislodged or dissolves. This can cause severe pain and discomfort. Dry socket is more common in smokers and people with a history of previous dental problems.

To avoid dry socket, it is important to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions carefully and not smoke or use a straw after your surgery. If you think you may have dry socket, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. They will be able to treat the condition and relieve your pain. 

When To Call Our Office

If you experience any of the following after your surgery, please call our office:

• Severe pain that is not relieved by pain medication
• Swelling that continues to increase
• Bleeding that does not stop with gauze pads
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Signs of infection, such as redness, pus, or a bad smell coming from the surgical site

It is normal to experience some pain and swelling after your surgery. However, if you experience these symptoms to a severe degree, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

The Best Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco

If you need your wisdom teeth removed, Young Dental SF Group is the best choice to get it done right. Dr. Young trains dentists in cosmetic dentistry through lectures and hands-on courses around the world, and Dr. Van has lent his skills to patients in both private practice and underserved communities abroad.

Dr. Young and Dr. Van work with patients personally to listen to what they want and share their dental expertise before suggesting treatment plans that work for the patient physically and financially. If you’re searching for wisdom teeth removal in San Francisco or the best dentist in San Francisco to help you with your wisdom teeth, contact us today to schedule an appointment at Young Dental SF Group or our partner clinic, Post Street Dental. We are located at 490 Post Street, Suite 830, San Francisco, CA. To schedule an appointment, call (415) 392-8611 or complete the online booking form.

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