Have you been told that you need your wisdom teeth removed?
If so, you may be wondering which is the better option: getting your wisdom tooth extraction done by a dentist or an oral surgeon.
In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between the two options and help you make an informed decision.
Choosing an oral surgeon for wisdom teeth removal ensures patient comfort, a high level of precision, minimized risk of complications, and a faster recovery. The surgical expertise and extensive training that oral surgeons undergo make them the optimal choice for complex dental procedures.
General Dentist Vs. Oral Surgeon: What’s the Difference?
A general dentist handles various dental procedures, including routine checkups, fillings, and crowns. On the other hand, an oral surgeon, also known as a maxillofacial surgeon, specializes in oral surgeries, which requires additional training and expertise.
Oral surgeons undergo 4-6 years of surgical training after dental school, honing their skills in complex procedures, such as facial trauma, corrective jaw surgery and tooth extractions involving impacted teeth.
While a dentist is certainly qualified to perform a wisdom tooth extraction, an oral surgeon may be the more suitable choice for certain cases.
Here are some key reasons why an oral surgeon is the best choice for wisdom tooth extractions:
1. Specialized Training & Expertise
Oral surgeons receive extensive training in various surgical procedures, including wisdom teeth removal. Their surgical training equips them with the knowledge of the facial anatomy and the complexities involved in tooth extractions. This expertise ensures the highest level of care and precision during the procedure, reducing the risk of complications.
2. IV Sedation & Types of Anesthesia
Oral surgeons are certified to administer various types of anesthesia, including IV sedation, making the wisdom teeth extraction process as comfortable as possible. IV sedation is specifically beneficial for patients who are anxious, require multiple extractions in one appointment or have wisdom teeth that require removal.
3. Minimized Risk of Complications
Choosing an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth removal minimizes the risk of complications during and after the procedure. Issues like adjacent tooth damage, bone fragment formation, damage to surrounding soft tissues, and infections are less likely to occur with an experienced oral surgeon. They also conduct thorough pre-operative assessments to identify any risks beforehand, ensuring a smoother procedure and recovery.
4. Faster Recovery
An oral surgeon’s expertise in wisdom teeth extractions and other dental procedures means that patients generally experience faster recovery and less post-operative pain. With their focus on minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues, a seamless and comfortable healing process is more likely to occur when wisdom teeth are removed by an oral surgeon.
The Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal
Removing wisdom teeth not only resolves pain and discomfort but also prevents potential issues like:
- Infection and inflammation of soft tissues
- Tooth decay or gum disease
- Cyst formation around the impacted tooth
- Crowding and misalignment of neighboring teeth
- Damage to adjacent teeth/roots
Foley & Le: Your Oral Surgeon in Boulder, CO
Choosing an oral surgeon for wisdom teeth removal ensures you receive the best care possible during this critical dental procedure. Their expertise in surgical procedures, anesthesia options, and comprehensive understanding of oral and maxillofacial surgery makes them the ideal choice over general dentists.
At Foley & Le Oral Surgery, we are here to guide you through the wisdom tooth extraction process with state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch professional care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our oral surgery services.
If you are searching for ‘the best wisdom teeth removal near me’ or ‘wisdom teeth extraction in Boulder, CO’, we can help. To book an appointment with Dr. Benjamin Foley, Dr. Thao Le, or Dr. Daniel B. Foley, call (303) 444-2255 or complete the online booking form.
FAQs About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery time varies from person to person, but most patients take about 5 to 7 days to recover from the initial healing phase. However, complete recovery usually takes 2 weeks. It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure you have a smooth recovery. Take a look at our post-operative instructions here.
It takes 8 weeks for the soft tissue to heal completely. You will notice significant healing and closure of the extraction site within the first few days. However, it is essential to continue following your surgeon’s instructions for proper care until full recovery.
Yes, you should avoid hard, sticky or crunchy foods that can irritate the extraction site and potentially cause problems. Stick with soft foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes for the first few days after surgery. You should also avoid excessively hot liquids in the immediate post-operative phase, as these can burn your soft tissue while you are still numb from the surgery.
It depends on your specific case and your surgeon’s recommendation. In some cases, removing all four wisdom teeth at once may be the best option to avoid future complications or multiple surgeries. However, in other cases, it may be better to remove them in separate procedures. Your oral surgeon will discuss the best approach for you during your consultation.
