Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Sterling Heights, MI
Relieving Pain and Protecting Your Oral Health
Having your wisdom teeth extracted is probably the last thing you want to do. We understand, so rest assured, if Dr. Young or Dr. Samona recommend this treatment, it’s because you need it for the sake of your oral health! Plus, once the source of your dental aches is gone, you’ll be able to return to your normal, everyday routine without pain. You can learn more about the details of a wisdom tooth extraction in Sterling Heights below. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team!
Why Choose Forever Young Dentistry for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments Available
- Sedation Dentistry Can Provide Reassurance
- In-Network With Several Dental Insurance Providers
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
You know the teeth in the very back of your mouth? Those are molars. Most individuals develop two sets of molars by age 12, making them the last two pearly whites on either end of your upper and lower arch. Until, that is, their wisdom teeth start to grow in!
Wisdom teeth are “third molars” that develop much later in life compared to your first and second molars. Not everyone has wisdom teeth, but if you do, it’s likely they’re causing you some problems.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Those “problems” can range from severe oral discomfort to smile-changing dental shifting. Here’s a simplified list of reasons why your third molars might need to be removed:
- There’s not enough room in your mouth to accommodate them
- They will likely push other teeth out of alignment as they grow
- They’re either fully or partially trapped below your gumline
- A pocket is forming around the trapped molars, risking infection
- They’re putting excess strain on your jawbone
While these issues usually cause jaw or tooth pain, there are cases where patients don’t feel any. So even if you think you’re perfectly fine, it can be a good idea to visit us for an X-ray to be sure!
What to Expect From the Wisdom Teeth Procedure
The terms “removal” and “extraction” probably sound pretty straightforward. Indeed, sometimes tugging out a wisdom tooth can be simple – but not always. Depending on your situation, the extraction process will go like this:
For wisdom teeth fully above the gumline, we’ll administer a local anesthetic, then gently wiggle the tooth until it comes loose. Simple!
For third molars that are trapped in the gumline, we’ll have to make an incision after administering the anesthetic. To safely remove the tooth without harming your jawbone, we may also have to section it into smaller pieces.
Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Your mouth will be quite delicate after your wisdom tooth extraction, so it’s important to follow these guidelines:
- Don’t spit, smoke, or use any straws
- Choose soft foods instead of hard or crunchy options
- Avoid strenuous activity and get plenty of rest
- Take pain relievers as necessary
- Call us right away if you experience concerning symptoms
- Listen to Dr. Young and Dr. Samona’s aftercare instructions
Wisdom Tooth Extractions FAQs
How Do You Make Wisdom Teeth Pain Go Away?
Wisdom tooth pain can be uncomfortable, but there are ways to find relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. You can also apply a cold compress to the side of your face to reduce swelling. Rinsing with warm salt water also helps clean the area and soothe irritated gums.
However, these solutions are temporary and the only way to ensure long-term comfort is by having your wisdom teeth extracted. So, if the pain in your mouth persists or worsens, it's time to call our expert dental team. We can perform safe wisdom tooth extractions in Sterling Heights and help you find lasting comfort.
What’s the Best Age to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Most dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 25. This is because between those ages, the roots generally aren’t fully developed, and the recovery is often faster. Waiting too long can lead to complications like impaction, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.
That’s why a visit to a dentist in Sterling Heights, like Dr. Young or Dr. Samona, is so important for receiving treatment. Our team at Forever Young Dentistry of Sterling Heights can help you decide if an extraction is right for you based on your dental X-rays and symptoms. And if you need more complex surgical options, we’ll be happy to refer you to a specialist we trust.
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Surgery Take?
Wisdom tooth removal typically takes 45 minutes or less, but treatment times can vary depending on how many teeth are being removed and their position. Simple extractions may take only 20–30 minutes, while impacted or surgically complicated teeth can take a bit longer.
At our practice, we make sure the procedure is smooth and efficient, keeping you comfortable from start to finish. If you're considering wisdom tooth extractions in Sterling Heights, we’ll walk you through every step of the process.
What Can I Eat After Wisdom Tooth Surgery?
After your surgery, it’s best to plan a menu full of soft, cool, and easy-to-chew foods for a few days. Some great options include:
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Warm, broth-based soups
These foods are nutrient-dense and bland to avoid irritating your extraction sites. In general, you should avoid spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods, as well as drinking through straws, which can dislodge blood clots and lead to dry socket.
At Forever Young Dentistry of Sterling Heights, we’ll give you some recommendations ahead of time so you can get the supplies you’ll need before your appointment. Then, we’ll send you home with detailed aftercare instructions to make healing easy and stress-free.