Wisdom Teeth Removal
in Chandler, AZ
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures, and for good reason. These third molars, which typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, often don’t have enough room on the jaw to grow in properly. When they become impacted or misaligned, it can lead to pain, swelling, infections, or damage to surrounding teeth.
Fortunately, Cactus Point Dental has an in-house oral surgeon who can schedule procedures on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing patients to receive the care they need at the same practice they’re familiar with without taking much or any time off from school or work. Contact us today!
Contact UsHow will I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?
You may need your wisdom teeth removed if they’re causing pain, swelling, or infection, or if they’re impacted and not erupting properly. Crowding, gum inflammation, and frequent discomfort near the back of your mouth are also common signs. Sometimes, issues aren’t noticeable until examined on X-rays. During your dental checkups, we’ll continually evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend whether removal is the best option to protect your oral health.
When is the best time to schedule wisdom teeth removal?
The best time to schedule wisdom teeth removal is typically during the late teens to early twenties. At this age, tooth roots are not fully developed, making the procedure easier and recovery faster. However, wisdom teeth can be removed at any age if they’re causing problems. We recommend scheduling the procedure at a time when you can allow for a few days of rest, such as during school breaks or scheduled time off from work. You’re also welcome to take advantage of our Friday and Saturday appointments with our in-house oral surgeon.
How long does it take to recover from a wisdom tooth procedure?
Recovery time varies, but most patients feel back to normal within 7 to 10 days. Swelling and mild discomfort usually peak in the first 2 to 3 days, then gradually improve. Following our aftercare instructions, such as resting, avoiding hard foods, and keeping the area clean, helps speed up healing. For more complex extractions, recovery may take a bit longer. Of course, we’ll guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and comfortable healing process.
Dr. Stradling Answers Your Questions
What does a dry socket look like?
A dry socket may appear as an empty-looking extraction site where the blood clot is no longer visible. You may also see exposed bone in the socket, although it can be difficult to identify on your own. More importantly, watch for signs of dry socket such as severe or increasing pain, pain that spreads toward the ear or temple, bad breath, or an unpleasant taste. If you notice these symptoms after your procedure, contact our office for evaluation and appropriate dry socket treatment.
Can dry socket heal on its own?
Dry socket can sometimes resolve as the area heals, but it can be painful and may take longer to improve without care. If you notice one or more common signs of dry socket, we can evaluate the extraction site and provide dry socket treatment to relieve discomfort and support healing. Following your aftercare instructions, including not smoking or drinking through a straw, can also reduce your risk of developing dry socket, which is the ideal outcome.
Can headaches be caused by wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth can sometimes contribute to headaches or pressure around the jaw, temples, and ears. Impacted or infected wisdom teeth may cause inflammation, swelling, and jaw tension that can lead to discomfort beyond the immediate area. If you are experiencing wisdom teeth pain along with headaches, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, our team can assess the situation and utilize dental X-rays to determine whether wisdom teeth are contributing to your symptoms.
What are the do and don’ts after wisdom teeth removal?
After wisdom teeth removal, keep the extraction area clean and follow your provided instructions carefully. Do eat soft foods, drink plenty of fluids, and rest during the initial recovery period. Don’t smoke, use straws, spit forcefully, or disturb the extraction site(s), as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and increase your risk of dry socket. Take medications as directed and contact our office if you develop severe pain, significant swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms.
What happens if wisdom teeth aren’t removed?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, wisdom teeth that are impacted, difficult to clean, or causing problems may lead to cavities, gum disease, infection, damage to nearby teeth, or recurring pain. Some wisdom teeth can remain healthy and require only regular monitoring. Our team will evaluate their position and development with dental X-rays and recommend removal when the potential risks of keeping them outweigh the benefits.