Many teens and young adults have the development of their wisdom teeth regularly monitored by a Bolingbrook, IL dentist to ensure they do not cause problems. If left unchecked, complications such as pain and discomfort, damage or disruption to existing teeth, or infection can occur around these third molars. Wisdom teeth removal is a very common procedure due to the lack of space to accommodate these teeth, and it can improve oral health and minimize risk of future problems. Oral and Facial Surgery of Naperville regularly performs this procedure and can administer anesthesia to enhance comfort and safety.


What Are Wisdom Teeth?

The wisdom teeth are located in the very back of the mouth and are the last set of permanent teeth to emerge. They are a third set of molars that are no longer necessary as humans have evolved and dental care has improved. Many patients have their wisdom teeth removed during their teens or early 20s because there is not enough room in their jaw which can cause the molars to grow in at an angle or become trapped below the gums. When this occurs, the teeth are said to be impacted.

While wisdom teeth removal can be performed at any age, Oral and Facial Surgery of Naperville often recommends it be done earlier rather than later for several reasons:

  • Delaying removal allows the teeth to continue developing and growing longer, stronger roots. In addition, the jawbone becomes denser. This can make removal more challenging.
  • Younger patients typically have a faster, less painful recovery.
  • Adults have a greater risk of experiencing discomfort and complications from impacted wisdom teeth. 

Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

  • Discomfort and sensitivity around the impacted teeth
  • Infection in and around the gums
  • Damage to adjacent teeth
  • Cysts around the jawbone

Without enough space to grow, wisdom teeth may crowd existing teeth and push them out of place. This can affect the alignment of teeth when you bite, chew, and smile. Impacted teeth may also cause cysts below the gum line that can lead to pain, infection, or bone loss. Wisdom teeth removal can proactively prevent these issues.


How Wisdom Teeth Removal Works

Our surgeons start by setting up an initial consultation to:

  • Answer any questions or concerns you may have.
  • Examine your teeth and jaw to see how your wisdom teeth are developing, identify any complications that have occurred, and review the need for extraction.
  • Explain how the process works and what you can expect before, during, and after surgery.
  • Discuss anesthesia options ranging from local anesthesia to general anesthesia based on your needs and comfort level. Our doctors want you to be as relaxed and pain-free as possible.

Your oral surgeon will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. We use the latest technology and techniques to safely extract teeth whether they have erupted through the gums or are impacted or at an angle. Anesthesia is carefully monitored to keep you comfortable while maintaining a safe experience.

Once your wisdom teeth have been removed, the surgical site will be packed with gauze to minimize bleeding and protect the empty socket. You will be provided with post-operative instructions regarding how to care for yourself and your mouth over the next several days.

Many patients find that ibuprofen or acetaminophen are enough to manage any pain, but you may receive a prescription for stronger medication if necessary. Your doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. Placing a cool compress on your cheek can help minimize swelling and reduce discomfort as well. You should begin feeling better within about 48 hours.

If you have any questions or concerns following surgery, do not hesitate to reach out to Oral and Facial Surgery of Naperville. Your comfort and safety during recovery are a top priority, and we can advise you on next steps, or whether you need to be seen in the office.


Excellence in Wisdom Teeth Removal Near Bolingbrook

Wisdom teeth removal is a very common procedure performed by our doctors, and we are committed to making it as easy and pain-free an experience as possible. We stay abreast of the latest advances in treatment and technology so you can feel confident in the quality of care you are receiving.