Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you live in the Mandeville, LA area, we welcome you to visit The OMS Center of South Louisiana for your wisdom teeth procedure. We have a reputation for compassionate care and surgical precision, and we offer sedation options to ensure a safe and comfortable procedure.
For teenagers or young adults who still have their wisdom teeth, we typically recommend seeking a dental evaluation before those teeth begin to cause problems, such as pain or infection. And for patients who are already experiencing these symptoms, we recommend consulting with Dr. Brandner, DDS, MD, an experienced oral surgeon, about wisdom teeth extraction.
Most people develop 32 permanent teeth over their lifetime. The final four to erupt are the third molars, also known as wisdom teeth. These teeth most often emerge between ages 17 and 21. It is extremely common for patients to have their wisdom teeth removed simply because the jaw is not large enough to accommodate them. As a result, wisdom teeth that are not removed may become impacted, a painful condition when the teeth are trapped under the gum tissue. Wisdom teeth can also negatively impact the alignment of nearby teeth and cause overcrowding in the mouth.
The process of having your wisdom teeth removed begins with a consultation. During this friendly, relaxed appointment, we will confirm your need for wisdom teeth removal and walk you through the process. We are always happy to answer questions and will also explain the different sedation options we may use to keep you out of pain.
During your consultation, Dr. Joshua S. Brandner will:
At the OMS Center of South Louisiana, we perform wisdom teeth removal in an environment where safety comes first. From top-of-the-line equipment to full sedation and anesthesia options, we want to ensure that our patients are as safe and as comfortable as they can be during their time with us.
Your actual procedure will be tailored to fit your needs and address the specifics of your wisdom teeth positioning. Following the procedure, you will be sent home with detailed instructions about aftercare and infection prevention. We provide our patients with prescription medications to keep pain under control, though most patients only need to use regular ibuprofen. Some swelling is normal but will start to fade within the first 48 hours.
There are a number of reasons why we recommend wisdom teeth removal for our patients in Mandeville, LA:
Timely wisdom teeth extraction can help prevent several long-term complications, such as:
Wisdom teeth removal is important for maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Impacted wisdom teeth can result in crowding. They may also adversely impact surrounding teeth or emerge from the gums at an incorrect angle. The best way to avoid these concerns is by proactively having the wisdom teeth removed.
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or discomfort caused by impacted or emerging wisdom teeth, you may be a strong candidate for removal. Symptoms such as crowding, infection, or difficulty cleaning around these teeth can also indicate the need for treatment.
Dr. Brandner will conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging, to determine the condition of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action. Early removal often helps prevent complications and supports better long-term oral health.
Ready to find out more about the benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed in a safe, comfortable environment? As a dual-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon holding both DDS and MD degrees, Dr. Joshua Brandner stays current with the latest advancements in oral health care and brings a personalized approach to every patient and procedure. Contact us to schedule a consultation at (985) 687-1616 for wisdom teeth removal in Mandeville, LA.
Dr. Brandner will provide clear, detailed post-operative instructions to ensure you feel confident and well-supported throughout your recovery. It’s normal to experience some swelling, discomfort, and mild bleeding during the first few days.
An over-the-counter pain reliever is often effective in managing pain, but prescription medication can also be provided. Applying an ice pack to your face can help reduce swelling around the extraction sites. Good oral hygiene, including avoiding vigorous rinsing or brushing near the surgical site, is key to healing. Rest and avoid strenuous activities to promote a smooth, comfortable, and speedy recovery.
After your wisdom teeth are removed, you’ll enjoy a healthier, pain-free smile. The procedure provides relief from discomfort, reduces the risk of infection, and prevents crowding or damage to surrounding teeth. By addressing these issues early, you can protect your oral health and ensure improved comfort and function for years to come.
Wisdom teeth are typically removed between the ages of 16 and 25 when they are easier to extract and before complications like impaction or crowding occur. However, they can be removed at any age if they cause pain, infection, or other issues.
Most patients recover within 3-5 days, with swelling and discomfort improving significantly during this time. Complete healing of the gums may take a few weeks, but with proper care, you can return to normal activities relatively quickly.
Common signs include pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth, swelling, redness, difficulty opening your mouth, or repeated infections near the wisdom teeth. If you notice these symptoms, an oral evaluation is recommended.
No, you will not feel pain during the procedure. Depending on your preference and the complexity of the extraction, local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia will be used to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
While wisdom teeth removal is a common and safe procedure, there are some potential risks, including dry socket, infection, excessive bleeding, or nerve irritation. These risks are rare and can be minimized by closely following Dr. Brandner’s aftercare instructions, such as avoiding smoking, sticking to soft foods, and keeping the surgical site clean. Mild swelling, discomfort, and bruising are normal but should improve within a few days. If you experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, or signs of infection like fever or swelling, contact Dr. Brandner and his team immediately for prompt care and support.
No, wisdom teeth do not grow back after removal. Once they are extracted, they are permanently gone.
To prepare, avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure if sedation will be used. Arrange for someone to drive you home, and stock up on soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies to make recovery easier.