Many times wisdom teeth push through the gums and into their proper positions with no issues. However, for many people in Modesto, CA, incoming wisdom teeth present problems. In these cases, wisdom teeth removal is required to protect a patient’s oral health. Scheduling your wisdom tooth procedure with our team has several big advantages, including:
- Sedation – You’ll be able to relax fully during your procedure. We offer both inhaled sedation and oral conscious sedation with an easy-to-swallow pill.
- Amenities – Feel at home during your visit with us. Get comfortable in the patient chair while you watch a video or listen to your favorite music with headphones. College students, in particular, love these cozy features!
- Payment options – We have several flexible payment options for you to choose from, including financing through CareCredit. Ask our friendly staff and we’ll be glad to help.
- Expertise – Dr. Marinello Manuel has practiced dentistry for over 30 years, so he is well-equipped to handle your case. In addition, he has assembled a top team to provide expert dental care to all our patients.
Call us today to schedule your wisdom teeth appointment at Sierra Dental Care: (209) 575-2400.
Learn About Wisdom Teeth
Your wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually make an appearance between the ages of 17 and 21. Unlike your other teeth, wisdom teeth are not required for either efficient chewing or to make your smile look complete. So when they put your oral health at risk, removal is necessary. Below are some common problems we see from incoming wisdom teeth:
- They become impacted – Sometimes your third molars will be in the wrong location or at the wrong angle, especially if they only partially emerge. They can then push against your other teeth and cause damage. Wisdom teeth can even get stuck underneath another tooth, which can cause significant pain.
- They crowd other teeth – For many patients, incoming wisdom teeth crowd their existing teeth, causing teeth shifting and bite issues.
- They need removal for orthodontic treatment – Our dentist or board-certified orthodontist may recommend removing wisdom teeth to help us straighten your other teeth with Invisalign or traditional braces.
Signs That You Might Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed, but when they cause problems, extraction is often the best option. At Sierra Dental Care, we help patients identify when it’s time to act.
You may need wisdom teeth removal if you notice:
- Pain or pressure in the back of your mouth
- Swollen or irritated gum tissue
- Difficulty chewing or opening your jaw
- Headaches or jaw stiffness (sometimes linked to TMJ disorders)
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste from infection
These symptoms often result from impacted teeth, which don’t have room to fully erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth can damage nearby molars, cause crowding or lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Our team uses X-rays and dental exams to evaluate your condition and determine the best course of action.
What Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Looks Like
Recovery from wisdom tooth extraction usually takes a few days. Most patients feel better within 3-5 days, but complete healing takes longer.
Here’s what you can typically expect after the dental procedure:
- Swelling or soreness are common but manageable with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relief.
- Soft foods and plenty of rest are key during the first few days.
- We recommend rinsing gently with salt water to keep the area clean.
As experts in oral and maxillofacial surgery, our experienced oral surgery team will walk you through every step, from anesthesia during the procedure to recovery tips after your visit. We also offer care for related dental issues, including gum disease and dental implants.
Whatever the need for wisdom teeth removal, we can do it quickly and comfortably. Call us at (209) 575-2400 today for your consultation. Don’t put the health of your gums and other teeth at risk!