Wisdom Teeth Removal

Gentle Care and Expert Wisdom Teeth Removal at Espire Dental Norman

For many young adults, wisdom teeth can become a source of pain and discomfort, leading to the need for removal. At Espire Dental Norman, we provide safe, gentle, and effective wisdom teeth extractions to protect your oral health and prevent complications. Whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing crowding, Dr. Brett Leemaster—an expert in oral surgery—offers compassionate care to ensure a comfortable experience. Conveniently located near W Robinson Street and I-35, we proudly serve patients in Norman, OK, and the surrounding areas.

Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Might Be Required

While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, extraction is often recommended when:

  • The wisdom teeth are impacted and cannot emerge properly.
  • There is not enough room in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to grow in without crowding other teeth.
  • The wisdom teeth grow at an angle and push against neighboring teeth, leading to potential shifting or misalignment.
  • You’re experiencing pain, infection, or swelling in the area.
  • The teeth are causing cavities or gum disease due to difficulty cleaning the area.

During your consultation, Dr. Brett Leemaster will perform a thorough examination, including digital X-rays, to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary for you. His goal is to protect your smile and prevent potential complications.

What to Expect During Your Wisdom Tooth Removal Treatment in Norman, OK

At Espire Dental Norman, we make the wisdom teeth removal process as comfortable and efficient as possible. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure:

  1. Consultation and Treatment Planning:
    Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. Brett Leemaster. We’ll take digital X-rays to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the best approach for extraction. Dr. Brett will discuss the details of the procedure, answer any questions, and explain your sedation options if needed.
  2. Day of the Procedure:
    On the day of your wisdom teeth removal, we’ll begin by ensuring you’re comfortable. Depending on your needs and comfort level, we may use local anesthesia to numb the area or offer sedation options to help you relax during the procedure.
  3. Local Anesthesia:
    This will numb the extraction site so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
  4. Sedation Options:
    If you’re anxious or need multiple teeth removed, Dr. Brett may recommend oral or IV sedation for a more comfortable experience.
  5. The Removal Process:
    During the extraction, Dr. Brett will gently remove the wisdom teeth. If the teeth are impacted or trapped in the bone, he may need to make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. Once the teeth are removed, the area will be cleaned, and dissolvable stitches may be placed to help the gums heal.
  6. Post-Procedure Recovery:
    After your procedure, we’ll provide detailed instructions to help you manage pain and ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, but Dr. Brett will prescribe medication to help manage any pain. You’ll also be given tips for proper aftercare, including:
    • Rest and hydration in the days following the procedure
    • Using ice packs to reduce swelling
    • Eating soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup
    • Avoiding straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing to protect the healing site

We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that your healing process is on track and address any concerns you may have.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

During the procedure, you won’t feel any pain thanks to local anesthesia or sedation. After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort or swelling, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.

What is the recovery time for wisdom teeth removal?

Most patients recover from wisdom teeth removal within 3 to 5 days, though some may experience minor swelling or discomfort for up to a week. Dr. Brett Leemaster will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Do I need all four wisdom teeth removed at once?

In many cases, we recommend removing all four wisdom teeth in a single procedure to prevent future complications and minimize the need for multiple surgeries. Dr. Brett will discuss the best approach based on your individual case.

What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

For the first few days after surgery, stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Avoid using a straw, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

How long should I take off work or school?

Most patients take 1-2 days off to rest and recover. If your job involves physical activity, you may need more time to heal before resuming normal tasks. Dr. Brett will provide guidance based on your procedure.

Will my insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?

Many dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of wisdom teeth removal, depending on your coverage. Our team at Espire Dental Norman will help you understand your benefits and offer financing options if needed.

Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Consultation Today

If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or complications, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Espire Dental Norman, Dr. Brett Leemaster and our caring team are here to ensure that your wisdom teeth removal is as painless and stress-free as possible. Call us today at (405) 364-7385 to schedule your consultation or visit our office off of I-35 in Norman to learn more about our personalized care.

Everyone I've interacted with at Espire has always been so nice and professional. These people know their stuff. I feel cared for here.

Mack