Wisdom Teeth Removal in Chicago, IL
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we provide comfortable and precise wisdom teeth removal to prevent or address complications from impacted or misaligned teeth. Dr. Helen Chan, D.M.D, M.Sc. ensures every procedure is handled with the utmost care.
Personalized Treatment Across Chicago
Serving Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown, we offer advanced technology and personalized treatment to help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile.
What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Remove Them?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others experience complications such as:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When there isn’t enough room in your jaw for the teeth to fully emerge, they may become trapped (impacted) under the gums, causing pain, swelling, or infection.
- Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, causing misalignment and crowding.
- Infection or Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are harder to clean, making them more vulnerable to decay, infection, or gum disease.
- Cyst Formation: In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially damaging the surrounding teeth and jawbone.
Removing wisdom teeth early, before they cause problems, is often the best way to prevent these complications and ensure long-term oral health.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but there are common signs and symptoms that indicate a problem. You may require wisdom teeth removal if you experience:
- Pain or discomfort at the back of your mouth
- Swelling or redness in the gums around your wisdom teeth
- Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth
- Infection or pus around the gumline
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth
If you’re unsure whether you need wisdom teeth removal, Dr. Chan will conduct a thorough examination, including dental X-rays, to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process at Wentworth Dental Clinic PC
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we aim to make every step of the wisdom teeth removal process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation
Dr. Chan will begin with a comprehensive exam, which may include digital X-rays or 3D imaging to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. Based on this evaluation, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan.
2. Sedation Options
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, we offer several sedation options, including local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), or oral sedation. We’ll discuss the best option for your needs and ensure you feel relaxed throughout the procedure.
3. Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Once you’re fully comfortable, Dr. Chan will carefully remove your wisdom teeth. The procedure varies depending on whether your teeth are impacted, but in most cases, it involves making a small incision in the gum, removing the tooth, and stitching the area closed if necessary.
4. Post-Procedure Care
After your wisdom teeth removal, Dr. Chan will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to manage discomfort, swelling, and what to eat during recovery. We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing and answer any questions you may have.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Proper post-procedure care is essential to ensure a smooth and quick recovery. Here are some key tips to follow after your wisdom teeth removal:
- Rest: Plan to rest for the first 24 hours after surgery and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
- Cold Compress: Use ice packs on the outside of your cheeks to reduce swelling.
- Soft Foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies for the first few days.
- Avoid Straws: Using a straw can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that slows healing.
- Keep the Area Clean: Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater after the first 24 hours to keep the area clean and promote healing.
Most patients recover from wisdom teeth removal within a week, but we’ll provide you with ongoing support and follow-up care to ensure you heal properly.
Why Choose Wentworth Dental Clinic PC for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we combine advanced technology and expertise with a compassionate approach to ensure the best care for every patient. Here’s why patients from Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown trust us for their wisdom teeth removal:
- Expert Care: Dr. Helen Chan has extensive experience in both simple and complex wisdom teeth extractions, ensuring you’re in safe hands.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest in digital imaging and laser dentistry to make the procedure as precise and minimally invasive as possible.
- Personalized Attention: We understand that wisdom teeth removal can be daunting, so we provide personalized care and sedation options to ensure your comfort.
- Convenient Location: Our clinic is easily accessible for patients in surrounding neighborhoods, providing a welcoming, state-of-the-art environment for all dental needs.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth or have been advised to remove them, Wentworth Dental Clinic PC is here to provide expert, compassionate care.
Call us at (312) 225-5500 or visit our Contact Page to schedule your consultation today!