Wisdom Teeth Removal

Oral Examination for Extraction of Wisdom Teeth

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Stanford can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present and if they may have enough room to properly erupt into proper place. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in improved post-operative outcomes for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Dr. Stanford is trained and experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.

---

Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars (wisdom teeth) to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen (as described below).

Impacted wisdom teeth is recommended to be removed prior to their root structure being fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until late teenage years to early twenties. Studies indicate that problems may tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 25. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:

What happens on the day wisdom teeth are removed?

Most people prefer to be unaware of the experience when they have their wisdom teeth removed and usually decide to be sedated. You will be provided with appropriate anesthesia options at your consultation. All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort.

On the morning or afternoon of your surgery, it is essential that you have nothing to eat or drink (excluding prescription medications with a sip of water) for at least 8 hours .This does not mean you should try to fit in one “last meal” exactly 8 hours before your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications, including nausea and vomiting. For your safety, your procedure will be rescheduled if you have not followed these guidelines.

If you are going to be sedated, we usually will place an IV. This is a quick and nearly painless procedure that ensures optimal delivery of your medication. You will then receive medications to sedate you, help minimize post-operative pain and swelling, and to prevent nausea. The procedure will take about 30 to 60 minutes. State-of-the-art sterilization and infection control techniques are used at all times.

Local anesthesia is given to ensure comfort for approximately 6-8hours. You will be sleepy for a significant portion of the day. 

If your surgery requires stitches, these are usually the type that dissolve in 7 to 10 days and do not require removal. You may also notice a sensation of your gums feeling swollen. This is all part of the normal recovery, and will decrease over the coming days.

Once the local anesthesia wears off, you may require prescription pain medication. Dr. Stanford will give you a course of post-operative medication. Take these medications as directed. Please call the office if you have any questions that are not clear on your post-operative instructions.  It is recommend that you start your post-operative diet with clear liquids such as jello and broths, gradually increasing in substance as your body permits.

We do not recommend using dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream or milkshakes on the day of surgery, as nausea and vomiting may develop in conjunction with the anesthetic and pain medication. **If you are given antibiotics and you take birth control pills, please be aware that the birth control pills might become ineffective and take appropriate precautions.**

What if I have questions before surgery?

At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Lafayette Office Phone Number 337-352-BEND (2363) to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.