Wisdom Teeth Removal in Metairie, Marrero, & Bay St. Louis

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are often referred to as third molars. They develop later in life than other teeth and are located at the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth usually develop when you are somewhere in your teens or early twenties and often trigger dental problems that can be serious. While most molars come in without problems, wisdom teeth often cause trouble. Several reasons for this include insufficient room in the back of the mouth, crowding of other teeth, and partial eruption that encourages dental plaque and tartar build-up.

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

In severe cases, wisdom teeth can become impacted, trapped in the jawbone, and unable to erupt fully. They may damage the roots of other teeth, turn sideways in the jawbone, or develop an infection. At Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Associates, we recommend screening and evaluation of wisdom teeth removal for all of our patients. Preventing potential problems is preferable to treating infections or complications once wisdom teeth become problematic. Early removal can save you the pain, time, and money associated with impacted wisdom teeth.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

We regularly remove wisdom teeth for residents in and around Metairie, Marrero & Bay St. Louis. We use local anesthetic and nitrous oxide or IV sedation to ensure comfort and minimize fear or pain during the procedure. Most patients do not remember the surgery.

Once you are sufficiently sedated, your surgeon makes a small incision in the gums and, if needed, may cut into the jawbone. The tooth is removed, and gauze is placed to control bleeding and aid clotting.

We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to follow upon returning home after surgery. Please follow these closely to ensure proper healing.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost & Financing Options in Metairie, Marrero & Bay St. Louis

We strive to keep wisdom teeth removal affordable for all our patients by working closely with major dental insurance plans to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs. Our office staff will guide you through coverage details and assist in submitting insurance claims. We also accept most major credit cards and CareCredit, a low- or no-interest line of credit for dental and medical expenses. If you have any questions, our staff are always happy to answer them.

Why Choose an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Our surgeons are board-certified and hold hospital privileges, offering advanced skills and experience that ensure precision and expertise in wisdom teeth removal, beyond what general dental offices provide.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction FAQs

Do wisdom teeth always need to be removed?

No, although we usually recommend having them removed when you are in your mid- to late teens or early twenties to avoid problems later in life. As you age, the roots of your wisdom teeth grow longer and can impinge on nerves in the jawbone. They also tend to shift and could damage the jawbone or adjacent teeth. Removal when you are older tends to be more complex, more painful, and more expensive.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

No, we numb the area and will give you some form of sedation. The only thing you might feel is some slight pressure. You may experience some mild discomfort and swelling for a few days following removal, but this is easy to manage with ice packs, OTC pain relievers and mild pain medication prescribed by your doctor. We also offer Exparel, a non-opioid injection given by your doctor that blocks pain at the site for up to 4 days.

What foods can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

For the first several days, a soft diet will give your mouth time to heal. Smoothies (do not drink through a straw), mashed potatoes, hummus, pudding, creamed soups, broths, and yogurt are all good choices. At the end of the first five days, you can begin by adding firmer foods. You will soon be eating normally again!

At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?

This depends on whether they are impacted, their position in your jaw, and your dentist’s recommendation. Many people have their wisdom teeth removed in their mid-teens (around 16-17 years old), but a dental exam and X-rays or digital imaging can give us a better idea of the ideal timing.

When can I return to school or work after wisdom teeth surgery?

For the first 2 to 3 days, focus on resting and allowing your mouth to heal at home. Rest with your head propped up and get lots of sleep. Stay hydrated. By the third or fourth day, many patients feel ready to return to work, but do not push themselves too fast. If, after a half-day, you feel exhausted and your cheek is painful, go home and rest more. Going slowly can help.

Gentle Wisdom Tooth Removal

If you or your child needs one or more wisdom teeth removed, our surgeons can perform the extractions in a relaxing environment that is anxiety- and stress-free for both of you. Contact our office today at Metairie Office Phone Number 504-456-5033 to schedule a consultation.