Covington Hammond 
Wisdom Teeth Removal
At The OMS Center of South Louisiana, we understand that wisdom teeth removal can feel daunting. Dr. Joshua S. Brandner, DDS, MD, and our experienced team of oral health specialists are dedicated to providing a comfortable and efficient experience. With advanced techniques and a patient-centered approach, we strive to minimize discomfort and maximize your recovery.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the back of your mouth. Sometimes, these teeth don't have enough room to grow properly, leading to impaction or partial eruption. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other dental problems. Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure to extract these teeth.
Wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on specific circumstances, such as whether or not your teeth are impacted. In general, the wisdom teeth removal procedure typically involves the following steps:
After the procedure, you will be given gauze to bite down on to control bleeding. Dr. Brandner will provide specific post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Wisdom teeth removal is specifically targeted at the back of the mouth, where wisdom teeth are located. It doesn't impact other areas of the body.
If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or other symptoms associated with impacted wisdom teeth, you may be a good candidate for removal. Your oral surgeon can assess your situation and recommend the best action. Early treatment for wisdom teeth removal can minimize complications and deliver your best long-term oral health.
Dr. Brandner will provide detailed post-operative instructions so you feel confident and supported throughout your treatment. In the first few days, you may experience discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Over-the-counter pain medication can help manage pain, and applying ice packs to your face can reduce swelling. Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid strenuous activity during healing to support your smoothest and quickest recovery.
Once your wisdom teeth are removed, you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable smile. You'll experience pain relief, reduced infection risk, and improved oral function. By addressing potential dental problems early on, you can maintain optimal oral health for years.
While you'll be numbed during the procedure, you may experience some discomfort afterward. However, over-the-counter pain relievers can effectively manage this pain.
Most people recover within a week or two, but complete healing can take several months. Following your surgeon's post-operative care instructions and avoiding strenuous activity is important.
For the first few days, stick to a soft food diet. As your mouth heals, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the surgical site.
While generally safe, there are potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, experienced surgeons and proper post-operative care can minimize these risks.
The best time to have your wisdom teeth removed is typically in your late teens or early twenties before they cause any problems.
