Wisdom Teeth Removal in Purchase & White Plains NY

The wisdom teeth are the final teeth to erupt at the back of the mouth and are the third set of molars. For most people, they emerge in their teens or twenties. If there is not enough room in the mouth for the teeth, they may become impacted, leading to crowding, infection, or damage to the teeth.

Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Your dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal as a preventive measure to avoid potential complications, such as impacted teeth, later in life when removal becomes more complex and can lead to further issues. However, there are indications that you may need your wisdom teeth removed immediately, including:

• Pulsing or throbbing toothache.
• A tooth trapped fully or partially in the gums (impacted).
• Swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums.
• Stiffness or pain in the jaw.
• Pain or difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
• A cyst or pimple on the gums.
• Pus or blood in the mouth.
• A painful earache or cheek radiating from the back of the mouth.
• Recurring headaches radiating from the jaw.

What to Expect from Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

Most people prefer to be sedated during wisdom tooth removal. During your consultation, anesthesia options will be discussed, and an appropriate anesthesia will be selected to ensure your comfort. Our licensed and experienced staff utilize modern equipment and adhere to rigorous safety standards.

(Is this paragraph supposed to be after surgery?) After surgery you’ll take medication to reduce pain and swelling. A parent or responsible adult must accompany you and stay with you (not sure if need time) as you may be groggy following surgery. Modern techniques help reduce recovery time and discomfort. Strict sterilization and infection control measures are always followed for your safety and comfort.

You must not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before surgery, except for prescription medications which will be discussed at the consultation. Do not try to time a final meal to fit within that window, as any food in your stomach increases the risk of serious complications from anesthesia. If you don’t follow these instructions, your surgery will be rescheduled. Prescription medication may be given during your consultation, and it’s recommended that you fill them in advance so that they are available following surgery.

If stitches are needed, they’ll usually dissolve on their own. You may feel that your gums are swollen or pulling away from your teeth; this is normal and will improve within a few days.

Start with a liquid diet—clear broths and Jell-O—then slowly reintroduce solid foods as tolerated.

If you’re prescribed antibiotics and take birth control pills, be aware that the effectiveness of birth control may be reduced. Take additional precautions as needed.

Why Choose Westchester Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Implantology for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure. While general dentists may occasionally remove a tooth, they do not regularly perform oral surgery (if at all). Most wisdom teeth are at least partially trapped in the jawbone, requiring oral surgeons who can cut through the gums and surrounding bone to access and remove the wisdom teeth with a minimal amount of damage to surrounding tissues.

Drs. Graffeo and Lane are highly trained oral surgeons with years of experience in these surgical procedures. They have handled numerous wisdom tooth procedures where long, curved roots or nerve impingement in the jawbone have required a delicate touch and extreme dexterity for optimal outcomes. If an emergency arises, they are capable of handling the situation in ways not available to a general dentist.

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs

What happens if I don’t get my wisdom teeth removed?

For some people, nothing happens. However, for the majority of individuals, the teeth eventually try to erupt, causing crowding or damage to the other teeth. They may also become impacted, leading to pain, inflammation, and infection, which can be severe and potentially dangerous.

What should I eat after having my wisdom teeth removed?

For the first few days, you will have to eat a soft diet. Mashed potatoes, hummus, yogurt, pudding, and smoothies are all good choices until you can slowly begin adding soft vegetables and meats.  You will also be instructed not to use a straw after surgery.

Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?

The procedure is not painful because the area is numbed with a local anesthetic, and you will likely be sedated for your comfort. You probably will not remember the surgery after your anesthesia wears off. For the first two to three days following surgery, you will have some swelling and discomfort that you can relieve with ice packs and OTC pain medications such as NSAID or Tylenol.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

We recommend taking 2-3 days off from work or school following wisdom teeth removal to allow for rest and recuperation. Relax, get plenty of sleep, and stay hydrated. By the end of the week, you should feel like yourself again.

Drs. Lane and Graffeo have been successfully removing wisdom teeth for decades, making teens and adults comfortable and relieving their anxiety throughout the process. To schedule a wisdom teeth evaluation, contact us at Purchase Office Phone Number 914-251-0313.