Say Goodbye to Wisdom Tooth Pain with the Best Dentist in Waterford
Wisdom tooth pain can strike unexpectedly, often bringing severe discomfort that interferes with your daily life. At Oakland Family Dental in Waterford, MI, Dr. Amanda Sheehan and her experienced team provide compassionate, efficient wisdom teeth removal to help patients find lasting relief. Whether you’re experiencing swelling, infection, or impaction, you’re in great hands with our trusted dentist in Waterford. Dr. Sheehan is committed to delivering exceptional care with a focus on patient comfort and long-term oral health.
If you’re in Waterford, Clarkston, or White Lake Township and have been searching for the top dentist in Waterford, Oakland Family Dental is your solution for wisdom tooth extractions done right. If you’re struggling with wisdom tooth pain, contact our Waterford dental office today by calling (248) 674-0384.
Why Patients Choose Oakland Family Dental for Dental Care
At Oakland Family Dental, patient care goes beyond routine treatment—it’s about creating a supportive, responsive, and genuinely caring experience from the moment you call. Many patients come to Dr. Amanda Sheehan in search of relief from pain or frustration with other providers, and they leave knowing they’ve found the best dentist in Waterford.
One of our loyal patients, Kirk W. shared his experience:
- “I had awful tooth pain from an infected wisdom tooth all weekend. Went to my regular dentist the following Monday. They didn’t do much for me but give me numbers to 3 different locations they use for surgery. None of them answered or called me back. Called Oakland Family Dental Monday, they squeezed me in Wednesday afternoon even though I’ve never been here before. By far the most professional, organized, amazing staff from top to bottom. Willing to take payments if needed, everyone here was truly, truly amazing. 24 hours later and it’s like nothing ever happened. I will definitely be switching to make this my normal dentist from now on. I recommend them to anyone and everyone!”
Kirk’s story isn’t unique—it’s a reflection of the standard of care Dr. Sheehan and her team provide every day. Whether you’re facing urgent dental issues or simply searching for a top dentist in Waterford who truly listens, Oakland Family Dental is here to support your long-term oral health.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to emerge in the oral cavity, typically in the teens or early twenties. While some may never experience any issues with their wisdom teeth, others may face complications due to impaction or misalignment. In these cases, wisdom teeth need to be removed to prevent severe pain, infections, and damage to adjacent teeth.
It’s not uncommon for someone to have one, two, or even all four wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth extraction is considered a standard oral surgery that ensures long-term oral health and the well-being of nearby teeth.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there isn’t enough room for the teeth to emerge into the mouth or grow normally. Wisdom teeth can be impacted at various angles, such as:
- Straight (vertical)
- Sideways (horizontal)
- Distal
- Mesial
Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Our dentist may recommend wisdom teeth removal for various reasons.
Infections and Gum Disease
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause infections and gum disease due to the difficulty in cleaning the area and the irritation of surrounding gum tissue. One infection is pericoronitis, a localized gum infection that affects the tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause damage to adjacent teeth. Problems may include:
- Physical Pressure: As wisdom teeth grow in, they can push against the second molars (the teeth directly in front of them). This pressure can lead to misalignment of the second molars or other teeth, making them crooked or crowded.
- Bone and Root Resorption: In some cases, the pressure exerted by an erupting or impacted wisdom tooth can lead to root resorption of the adjacent tooth. This means that the tooth’s root structure starts to break down and dissolve. This can weaken the second molar and might even result in its loss if not addressed.
- Increased Risk of Decay: Wisdom teeth can make it difficult to thoroughly clean the rear part of the mouth, especially if they come in at an angle or only partially erupt. This can lead to food and bacteria getting trapped between the wisdom tooth and its neighboring molar.
Cyst Formation and Jaw Bone Issues
Cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to the destruction of jaw bone and adjacent teeth. These fluid-filled sacs can progressively enlarge over time, causing damage to the surrounding jaw bone and sometimes even teeth.
In rare cases, the formation of cysts around wisdom teeth may result in tooth displacement, small bumps in the mouth, and structural damage to the jawbone, adjacent teeth, and nerves. Wisdom tooth removal can prevent these complications and protect your oral health.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Removing wisdom teeth can provide patients with various benefits, including:
- Prevention of overcrowding
- Avoiding tooth impaction
- Prevention of cysts and tumors
- Reduced risks of gum disease and tooth decay
- Pain relief
- Reduced risk of oral infections
- Prevention of damage to nearby teeth
- Better orthodontic results
- Prevention of jaw stiffness and swelling
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process at Oakland Family Dental
The wisdom tooth extraction process involves three main steps:
- Preparation
- Extraction
- Post-extraction care
Preparing for Extraction
Before your wisdom tooth extraction, you’ll undergo dental exams, consultations, a medical history review, and discuss anesthesia options. You’ll also receive instructions regarding what to abstain from before the procedure, such as eating or drinking anything. Additionally, our dentist may prescribe you medications to take before the procedure to help manage pain and swelling.
The Extraction Procedure
During the surgical procedure, our Waterford dentist will administer dental sedation to ensure your comfort throughout the process. The type of sedation used will depend on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level.
Once it has taken effect, our dentist will use specialized tools and techniques to remove the impacted wisdom tooth. This may involve making an incision in the gum tissue and removing any bone that may be blocking the tooth’s path. Once the tooth has been extracted, the extraction site will be sutured to ensure proper closure and healing.
Post-Extraction Care
After wisdom tooth removal, post-extraction care is integral for healing and recovery. This involves managing pain and swelling and maintaining oral hygiene around the extraction site. We’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth following the procedure, including pain management techniques and the use of ice packs to reduce swelling.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Recovery and healing after wisdom tooth removal involve a combination of rest, managing swelling and pain, and maintaining oral hygiene. Most people can resume their normal activities within a week following the procedure. However, make sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations and take any necessary precautions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
Managing Swelling and Pain
During the healing process, managing swelling and pain is important. Here are some ways to manage these symptoms:
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling and provide relief.
- Take medications as directed by a healthcare provider to help with the symptoms.
- Consider using pain relievers available without a prescription if advised by your dentist.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions when taking any medications.
Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal
The cost of wisdom tooth removal can range from $200 to $4,000 per tooth, depending on certain factors and whether or not insurance coverage is available. Consulting your dental insurance provider to determine your coverage for wisdom tooth removal is advisable since it can vary based on your specific policy and dental condition.
By understanding your insurance coverage, you can make informed decisions about your dental care and be prepared for any out-of-pocket expenses. To learn more about financing options, contact our Waterford office by calling (248) 674-0384.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
On average, it takes one to two weeks to fully recover from wisdom teeth removal. Most people can resume their normal routines within three to five days, however, following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions can help make the healing process as comfortable as possible.
How painful is wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is generally quick and painless during the procedure, and afterward, most people experience only mild discomfort and swelling for 3 to 4 days. In rare cases, some pain and discomfort may last up to two weeks without treatment.
At what age are wisdom teeth removed?
It’s generally recommended to remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 25, as this is when they’re fully mature but haven’t yet erupted. Delays can lead to serious health issues further down the line.
Relieve Pain and Restore Comfort at Our Waterford Office!
If you’re dealing with wisdom tooth pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Trust your smile and comfort to Dr. Amanda Sheehan at Oakland Family Dental—a Waterford dentist known for clinical excellence and compassionate care. With advanced technology, flexible scheduling, and a commitment to your wellbeing, it’s no surprise so many patients in Waterford, Clarkston, White Lake Township, and the nearby areas, are calling her the top dentist in Waterford. When it comes to wisdom teeth removal, choose the best dentist near you—and discover what quality dentistry truly feels like.
If you’re ready to schedule a wisdom tooth removal appointment, contact our Waterford dentist today by calling (248) 674-0384.