Wisdom Teeth Services in Frisco

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth removal is often advised by your dentist when you are in your teens or early twenties, even if the teeth are not causing problems. This proactive approach is recommended because it allows for a simpler surgery with fewer complications. Your dentist may have seen something in an X-ray or during a routine examination that indicates your third molars will cause problems in the future. By having your wisdom teeth removed now, you can avoid potential issues and ensure a smoother recovery.

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal is Easier Now Than Later

Dr. Mughal recommends early removal to many of his McKinney and Frisco dental patients because the surgery is easier for them.

• As you age, wisdom teeth roots continue to grow longer, impinging on nerves and blood vessels in the jawbone. Surgery later in life may damage these nerves and blood vessels.
• The jawbone becomes denser as we age, making surgery more difficult.
• Healing is slower and more painful as we age.
• If you have your wisdom teeth removed later in life, you may have to take more time off from work or school.

Sedation Options for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Frisco and McKinney

At EDC Smiles, we understand that many patients experience dental anxiety, especially when it comes to surgery to remove wisdom teeth. That’s why we offer sedation options for your comfort during the procedure. Whether you prefer to relax with Nitrous Oxide, often called laughing gas, or be in a semi-conscious state with  Oral Sedation or IV sedation, we have options to help you feel at ease.

If your anxiety level is higher or you prefer to be partially unconscious, IV sedation may be the better option. This sedative puts you into a semi-conscious state where you are relaxed, drifting in and out of sleep. After the surgery is over, you will be groggy for a few hours and will need someone to drive you home and keep an eye on you. You will probably not remember the procedure at all.

Do you need emergency wisdom teeth removal?

If you or your teen is suffering from a severely impacted wisdom tooth or is experiencing symptoms of a possible abscess, you may need emergency wisdom tooth removal. If you or  your teen have any of the following symptoms, it is best to contact us immediately so that Drs. Mughal, Jameel or Zia can see  you immediately and determine whether same-day wisdom tooth removal is necessary:

• Severe pain and swelling around the wisdom teeth that radiates to the jaw, ear, or neck.
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
• Red, swollen, bleeding gums.
• A fever or chills accompanied by pain or swelling.
• Pus discharge around the wisdom tooth.
• Swollen lymph nodes and fever.
• Difficulty chewing and a bad taste in the mouth.
• Damaged or cracked molars.

What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal

After wisdom teeth removal, you will feel groggy for the first few hours. Resting at home is crucial for the first 24 hours. This is the ideal time for relaxing on the couch or in bed. Watching television, playing video games, or reading are the most strenuous activities you should engage in. Drink lots of water and stick to a liquid diet. Do not use straws, as the suction could knock the gauze loose over any incisions. Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.

• Days 1 and 2: Stick to a soft diet and take any needed pain medications. Limit your activities and get plenty of rest. Rinse your mouth periodically with warm saltwater and take any prescribed antibiotics. You will have some pain and swelling.
• Days 3 and 4: Swelling and pain will subside, but some bruising will begin to show. You can begin to add firmer foods but continue to avoid anything hard or crunchy. Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical sites. You can begin to return to normal activities. Most people return to work or school by day four.
• Days 5 to 7: You can gradually return to your normal diet and normal routine. Any discomfort or swelling should be gone, and bruising will fade.
• Weeks 1 to 2: Bone and gum tissue is beginning to heal. You can begin adding strenuous activities and exercise back into your routine. We will see you for a follow-up appointment.

To ensure your recovery goes smoothly, please follow the post-op instructions we provide after surgery. These outline tips that will keep you comfortable and optimize your recovery. If you have any other questions, please call our Frisco office at Excel Dental Care dba EDC Smiles Phone Number 214-504-9400.