Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs in Rockford, IL

Questions Parents Commonly Ask

How Do I Know If My Teen Needs Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Often, your dentist will refer your child to us because they have seen indications that one or more wisdom teeth will cause problems for your child later in life due to their position. Wisdom teeth can become partially exposed, creating risk of infection, or put pressure on the adjacent teeth as your teen grows into adulthood.

Impacted wisdom teeth (teeth trapped fully or partially in the jawbone) are recommended to be removed between the ages of 14-18. Signs of an impacted tooth include:

• Pain in the back of the mouth
• Redness, swelling, or bleeding in the back of the mouth
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
• Swollen, puffy, sensitive gums
• Chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Frequent headaches or earaches originating in the jaw
• Crowding or shifting of other teeth
• Cysts in the back of the mouth or along the gum line

Why Should an Oral Surgeon Remove Wisdom Teeth Instead of a General Dentist?

Oral surgeons are the experts regarding wisdom teeth. They have years of training beyond dental school, focusing on surgical techniques, anesthesia, and anatomy. This additional knowledge and experience enables our surgeons to be safe and efficient. While a dentist may perform occasional wisdom tooth removal, our surgeons perform these procedures every day. We can manage the most complex cases and are better equipped to handle any complications that arise.

What Should Parents Expect on the Day of Surgery?

You can expect to be at our office for approximately 1 hour. After the procedure, your child will remain in recovery for observation until we feel they can return home and that there are no complications. They will be groggy and may sleep a lot until the anesthesia is out of their system.

How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in Rockford, IL?

The cost depends on several factors, including the number of teeth removed, the type of anesthesia used, and the complexity of the surgery. We will discuss all costs when we examine your child so that there are no surprises.

How Long Is Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Discomfort usually peaks around days 2-3 but may last up to 7 days. Most patients should feel like themselves on days 5 to 7. Full wisdom tooth recovery is quicker if you carefully follow the post-operative care instructions we provide on the day of surgery.

Questions Teens & Young Adults Commonly Ask

Do I Really Need to Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed If They Don’t Hurt?

Not every person needs to have wisdom teeth removed. There are multiple factors to consider, which is why a professional should evaluate your child. If they are not removed, then they should still be monitored. This includes periodically taking X-rays to check for any movement or changes below the gum line.

What Happens If I Wait Too Long to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?

The older you are, the more difficult it is to undergo and recover from wisdom tooth extraction. The roots of these teeth continue to grow, making them more difficult to remove and potentially requiring a more invasive procedure. Longer roots can also more closely approximate the nerves in the lower jaw, raising the risk for nerve injury leading to permanent numbness in the lips or jaw.

Will I Be Awake During Wisdom Teeth Removal?

While the procedure can be completed with local anesthesia, most people go to sleep for it. Given the complexity of the procedure, we do recommend proceeding with IV sedation if you are a healthy candidate.

How Long Does Swelling Last After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Most swelling resolves within the first week, but you may have residual puffiness for up to 2 weeks. To minimize swelling, use ice packs or bags of frozen peas or corn on your jawline for the first 2-3 days, 15 minutes at a time. Resting with your head elevated also helps.

What Can I Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

You will be on a soft diet for the first few days (mashed potatoes, hummus, yogurt, cottage cheese, smoothies, milkshakes, pudding, and creamy soups). You can gradually add in firmer foods such as pasta, mashed vegetables, and soft meats (fish, shredded chicken) and build up over time.

We are always available to answer your questions about wisdom teeth extraction Rockford, IL. If you have concerns or need to schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth removal, please contact our office at Rockford Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Office Phone Number 815-226-4700.