Gentle Wisdom Teeth Extractions in North Park, San Diego
At the dental practice of Terry McClanahan DDS, we offer reliable wisdom teeth removal to protect the functionality of your bite and the beauty of your smile. Many people need their wisdom teeth removed to keep the neighboring teeth from becoming crowded, and our team provides the tooth extraction services you require.
Our dental office is conveniently located on El Cajon Boulevard, and we proudly protect the smiles of the residents of San Diego and the surrounding communities of North Park and Mission Valley. We blend decades of experience and a comforting chairside manner to provide the quality dental care you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how our wisdom teeth extraction procedure can boost the health of your smile.
CALL US: (619) 543-1588 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Extractions?
Your third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, are usually the last permanent teeth to erupt. However, these molars often fail to fully erupt and can be misaligned with the rest of your teeth, which disrupts your bite pattern. Some wisdom teeth are at an extreme angle and threaten to push your other molars, causing crowding and a crooked alignment. When your wisdom teeth exhibit these traits, it's called impacting wisdom teeth.
If your arch of teeth does not have room to accommodate your wisdom teeth, or if they aren't fully erupting, then tooth extraction is required to protect your smile. When your molars don't erupt properly, they can decay below the gums and cause infection and pain. We are dedicated to protecting your oral health, which is why we offer wisdom teeth removal to get you out of pain and back to your day.
Our Sedation Options for Tooth Extractions
We understand that many people suffer from dental fear and anxiety, regardless of age. That's why we offer sedation options to maximize your comfort. Our team prioritizes your dental health and peace of mind so you can enjoy a relaxing experience every time you visit us. Here are the sedation offerings available at our practice:
- Nitrous Oxide: We offer nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, to all ages. This sedation option helps you feel calm and relaxed during your procedure while remaining fully aware. The effects wear off within minutes of the mask being removed, which means you won't experience any impairment of cognitive or motor functions and can drive yourself home after your procedure.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: Oral conscious sedation consists of a pill that you take once you arrive at our office, and it creates a deep sense of relaxation. It won't cause you to fall asleep, but many people feel as though they're nearly asleep or even nap during the procedure. You will feel groggy and experience some impairment of your mental and motor functions, so you will need a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure. We recommend having a loved one or friend stay with you during the first few hours after your treatment.
Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
The moment you walk into our office, you notice our team welcomes you like family and takes the time to get to know you. We ask questions and listen attentively to ensure we fully understand your needs and concerns. The dentist performs a thorough exam of your teeth, jaws, and gums, and we take digital x-rays of your dental structures to gather all the information required to craft an effective and custom treatment plan. We'll review the results with you and discuss which wisdom teeth we need to address and why so you can confidently make a decision about how you want to proceed, including your choice of sedation.
On the day of your wisdom teeth removal, we'll administer the sedation of your choice as well as a local anesthetic to maximize your comfort. The wisdom teeth are deftly extracted, then we gently clean the socket and use an antibacterial solution to promote a healthy environment as your gums heal. The dentist seals the site and applies gauze to the area. We'll provide helpful tips and instructions to improve your recovery period, then you're ready to go home and rest.
Recovering From Tooth Extraction
Recovering from any procedure can cause anxiety because of fear of the unknown. That's why we make it a point to be there for you throughout the healing period. Our dentist gives you a phone number so you have a direct line to Dr. McClanahan in case you have questions or complications. Here are some helpful tips to help you during recovery from wisdom tooth extraction in San Diego:
- Only eat soft foods like eggs, mashed potatoes, soup, or smoothies
- Rinse your mouth gently with saline solution to clean the surgery site
- Avoid using a straw or smoking because the suction can dislodge the protective blood clot
Effective Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Diego
When you need wisdom teeth removed, it's important to find a dentist who puts you at ease. At the dental practice of Terry McClanahan DDS, we offer the quality treatments you need with the gentle touch you deserve. Our team provides wisdom teeth extraction in San Diego to protect your oral health, and sedation options to safeguard your peace of mind. We look forward to meeting you and developing a professional relationship built on trust and dependable dental care. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
CALL US: (619) 543-1588 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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