Wisdom Teeth Removal in Westlake Village, CA
It's recommended that wisdom teeth are removed early before they can cause a host of oral health complications, such as impaction or infection. We offer wisdom teeth removal at our offices in Ventura, Ojai, and Westlake Village, California.
Extracting Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to develop, typically emerging between ages 17 and 21. However, these late arrivals often create issues due to the lack of space in the mouth. Because of this, oral surgeons frequently recommend extracting wisdom teeth to avoid complications like damage to nearby teeth, gum infections, cysts, and overcrowding.
At Greater Ventura Oral & Facial Surgery Dental Implant Experts in Westlake Village, CA, our team of board-certified oral surgeons—Dr. Zarrinkelk, Dr. Siavash, and Dr. Coppelson—specialize in wisdom teeth extractions. Our dedicated and knowledgeable staff are here to ensure you receive the best possible care. Reach out to us today to schedule your consultation.
Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
During routine dental visits, your dentist will keep an eye on your wisdom teeth and will suggest an oral surgeon if extraction becomes necessary. If you’re experiencing discomfort or other symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an assessment.
Common Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Problems
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of symptoms that may indicate the need for extraction, such as:
- Mouth Pain: Persistent or sharp pain towards the back of your mouth is a common sign of wisdom teeth issues. The pain might radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck.
- Swollen Gums: As wisdom teeth emerge or become impacted, they can cause gum inflammation, making brushing and flossing difficult.
- Jaw Stiffness: Overcrowding from wisdom teeth can lead to restricted jaw movement, making it uncomfortable to open your mouth fully or eat.
- Sinus Pressure: Upper wisdom teeth might press against your sinuses, leading to pain, congestion, or headaches that can be mistaken for sinus infections.
- Unpleasant Breath: Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth can harbor bacteria, resulting in bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth despite good hygiene.
Hear from wisdom teeth removal patients like you
Since complications from untreated wisdom teeth are so common, many oral surgeons and other dental health professionals recommend that wisdom teeth are removed before they can have a chance to affect oral health. Wisdom teeth patients just like you are sharing their stories. We encourage you to listen to their experiences and see for yourself why Greater Ventura Oral & Facial Surgery Dental Implant Experts is a trusted oral surgery practice.
What to Expect During Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction Surgery
Your first step at our practice involves a detailed consultation with one of our board-certified oral surgeons. During this visit, they will evaluate your oral health, review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and answer any questions you may have.
On the day of the procedure, you’ll receive anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery. We offer various anesthesia options, including IV sedation, which is commonly used for wisdom teeth removal to help patients remain relaxed with little to no memory of the procedure.
If your wisdom teeth have already emerged, removal is usually straightforward and can be done quickly using forceps. However, if your teeth are impacted or still beneath the gums, the surgeon will make a small incision to access and remove them, followed by sutures to help with healing.
After the extraction, you’ll receive clear recovery instructions to promote smooth healing. These will include tips on caring for the surgical site, managing pain with prescribed medications, and avoiding dry socket—a painful condition where the blood clot in the socket becomes dislodged.
Recovery times vary depending on the individual, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. Some discomfort is normal, but it can be managed with ice packs, rest, and following the care instructions provided by your oral surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
It’s best to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after surgery, such as soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Gradually, you can reintroduce solid foods as your mouth begins to heal. Your oral surgeon will give you specific dietary guidelines based on your case.
2. What is a dry socket after tooth extraction?
A dry socket is a condition that can occur after tooth extraction when the blood clot protecting the socket dislodges or dissolves prematurely, exposing the bone underneath. This can cause severe pain and slow down the healing process. To prevent dry socket, avoid activities like using straws, vigorous rinsing, and smoking after surgery.
3. What should I expect during recovery?
Recovery experiences vary, but most people encounter swelling, discomfort, and limited jaw movement for a few days after the procedure. While you may return to work or school within a day or two, it typically takes about two weeks for the extraction sites to fully heal. Following your oral surgeon’s postoperative instructions, taking prescribed medications, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and avoiding strenuous activities will all help in a smooth recovery.
4. How long does it take to remove wisdom teeth?
The duration of the procedure can vary based on the position and development of the teeth and the complexity of the extraction. In general, the surgery can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour. During your consultation, your oral surgeon will provide a more accurate time estimate after evaluating your specific case.