Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. For many patients, these teeth don’t have enough room to come in properly. They can become impacted or partially erupted, increasing the risk of pain, infection, crowding, and damage to nearby teeth. When this is the case, extracting the wisdom teeth is usually the best option.
At our Elgin office, Dr. David Rice, DDS, provides wisdom tooth extractions with an emphasis on comfort, clinical precision, and holistic post-op care that promotes rapid healing. Whether you need a single wisdom tooth extraction or all your wisdom teeth removed, Dr. Rice and his team are here to make the procedure smooth and comfortable, so you can get back to smiling in no time. Call us at [practicePhoneNumber] to schedule your initial consultation for wisdom tooth extraction today.
When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Needed?
For some, wisdom teeth emerge in their teens or early twenties with no issues. For many, however, it may not be as straightforward. Here are the common problems that may need to be addressed with extraction:
- The teeth are impacted: Wisdom teeth can become trapped beneath the gums or the jawbone, leading to pain, swelling, or infection.
- They erupt at an angle: When wisdom teeth come in sideways or only partially break through the gums, they can damage neighboring teeth or create areas that are difficult to keep clean.
- Infections develop: Partially erupted wisdom teeth often trap bacteria and food debris, increasing the risk of recurrent infections or gum inflammation.
- Crowding or bite changes occur: Wisdom teeth can place pressure on surrounding teeth, potentially affecting alignment or orthodontic results.
- Cleaning becomes difficult: Because wisdom teeth sit so far back in the mouth, it can be challenging to brush and floss them effectively, increasing the risk of decay.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
What to Expect
Step 1: Consultation
Dr. Rice will conduct a thorough exam and take advanced digital images of your mouth to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether they are likely to cause problems and require extraction. This initial exam helps determine the best approach for your unique situation.
Step 2: Planning
Dr. Rice will review your treatment plan with you so you know exactly what to expect. If a parent is present, Dr. Rice will walk through the plan with them and answer any questions before moving forward.
Step 3: Preparation for Extraction
On the day of your appointment, Dr. Rice and his team will make sure you are comfortable before the extraction. Dr. Rice is known for achieving reliable, complete numbness even for patients who have struggled to get numb in the past. For your comfort, we also offer various sedation options, including oral and IV sedation, as well as general anesthesia, which will allow you to sleep through the entire procedure.
Step 4: Extraction and Post-Op Care
Dr. Rice will carefully extract your wisdom teeth, then clean and protect the extraction site. Afterwards, Dr. Rice will send you home with post-op instructions to ensure the extraction site heals while keeping you pain-free. Dr. Rice uses holistic treatments to promote rapid healing and reduce inflammation, so with proper at-home care, you can get back to your everyday life in a relatively short time. If questions come up afterward, our team will be a phone call away.
Your Comfort is Our #1 Priority
We know that getting your wisdom teeth removed can be nerve-wracking. Dental anxiety, especially around extractions, is surprisingly common! That’s why our approach prioritizes patient comfort above all else. With Dr. Rice, you can expect a comfortable environment, clear communication, and world-renowned expertise, with plenty of ways to help you feel relaxed and informed every step of the way.
Reliable Numbing and Sedation Options
Dr. Rice is known for his ability to achieve dependable, complete numbness, even for patients who have struggled with anesthesia in the past. Sedation dentistry is also available for patients who feel anxious and need additional support to relax during the procedure. From mild relaxation with laughing gas to sleeping through the entire procedure with the help of general anesthesia, we have the options to ensure your extraction is stress-free.
Advanced Clinical Training
Dr. David Rice, DDS, brings advanced training and experience to wisdom teeth extractions. He is a recognized mentor for the Center for Advanced Dental Learning and a Clinical Instructor at the KOIS Center in Seattle, a world-renowned postgraduate dental training institute. At KOIS, he is one of fewer than 25 dentists worldwide to have been recognized in this position. With this level of expertise, you can rely on Dr. Rice to provide precision and ensure a smooth extraction with minimal recovery time.
A Smoother, Faster Recovery
Healing is an integral part of the wisdom tooth extraction process. Dr. Rice uses advanced holistic healing techniques, including StellaLife, to significantly speed up the healing process.
StellaLife® is an all-natural recovery kit that helps manage pain and swelling, hydrates the oral cavity, relieves symptoms of dry sockets and sores, and promotes healthy gums and overall wellness during recovery. The kit includes a rinse, a spray, and a gel. Application is started shortly before treatment and continued for several days afterward.
Combined with a solid at-home care plan, you’ll be back to your everyday life in no time!
“I had my wisdom teeth pulled by Dr. Rice and he was extremely thorough with explaining the procedure and made me feel completely comfortable throughout the whole process. He explained each step of the process before and throughout the entire procedure to me. The office even checked-in with me the next day to see how I was doing. I would highly recommend Dr. Rice for any dental needs!”
Amber R. – Patient of David A. Rice, DDS
What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Some swelling, soreness, and minor bleeding are typical for a short time, usually during the first 24-48 hours. This should gradually improve over the next few days.
For the first couple of days, patients should stick to a soft or liquid diet and avoid using straws. Dr. Rice will give you a list of recommended foods and drinks after your treatment. Gauze may be placed over the extraction sites and should be changed as instructed.
Pain may be managed with over-the-counter medication, though a prescription may be provided in some cases. Applying a cold compress to the side of the face can help with swelling. Rest and avoid any strenuous activities to help promote proper healing.
Most teens and young adults can return to school, work, and light activity within a few days. However, your specific recovery timeline may depend on the complexity of the extraction procedure, so be sure to follow Dr. Rice’s instructions in your personal aftercare plan. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period, give our office a call. We’re here to help.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Elgin
If you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth removed, have pain in your back molars, or are unsure if you need a wisdom tooth extraction, give our Elgin office a call at [practicePhoneNumber] or request your appointment online. Dr. David Rice and his team are here to help you feel informed, comfortable, and supported every step of the way.