Having your wisdom teeth removed is a significant rite of passage for many. At Reno-Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we understand that while it’s a common procedure, the thought of recovery can be top of mind. Our focus is on providing the most precise oral surgery care in Northern Nevada, using cutting-edge technology and ensuring you’re treated like family every step of the way. We “roll out the red carpet” for all our patients, and that includes guiding you through a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Matters
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, usually in your late teens or early twenties. Often, there isn’t enough room in the jaw for them, leading to impaction, misalignment, and other issues. We recommend wisdom teeth removal to:
- Keep your smile straight: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, causing misalignment.
- Lower the risk of infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are more prone to infection.
- Reassurance of less problems in the future: Removing them can prevent future complications.
Your Personalized Care Team
When you step into our practice, you’ll be in the capable hands of Dr. Scott M. Redlinger, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. With over 5,000 implants placed and extensive experience, Dr. Redlinger and his team are dedicated to providing personalized care using our in-house lab and advanced technology.
Understanding the Recovery Timeline
Every patient’s experience is unique, but here’s a general timeline of what to expect after wisdom teeth removal:
Day of Surgery:
- Immediately After: You’ll likely be groggy from the anesthesia. We prioritize your comfort and safety, ensuring you have a smooth transition as you begin to wake up.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal. Bite down gently on the gauze pads we provide, changing them as needed.
- Swelling: Swelling is also common and typically peaks within the first 24-48 hours. Applying ice packs to your cheeks can help minimize it.
- Pain Management: We’ll provide specific instructions for pain management. It’s crucial to follow these instructions to stay comfortable.
- Rest: Rest is essential. Avoid strenuous activity and keep your head elevated.
First 24-72 Hours:
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising may increase initially before gradually subsiding.
- Pain: You may experience moderate pain, which can be managed with prescribed medication.
- Diet: Stick to a soft or liquid diet to avoid irritating the surgical sites.
- Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water as directed. Avoid brushing near the surgical sites.
Days 3-7:
- Swelling Subsides: Swelling should begin to decrease significantly.
- Pain Lessens: Pain should also gradually decrease, and you may need less pain medication.
- Diet Progression: You can slowly start to introduce semi-soft foods.
- Continued Oral Hygiene: Continue rinsing with salt water and gently brushing your teeth, avoiding the extraction sites. You will need to flush out the sockets on the lower jaw with warm salt water with the syringe we provide.
Week 2 and Beyond:
- Healing: The extraction sites will continue to heal.
- Normal Diet: You can gradually return to your normal diet as you feel comfortable.
- Follow-up: We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing and ensure everything is progressing well.
Your Partner in Recovery
At Reno-Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we go beyond just providing exceptional surgical care. We’re a family-owned practice that treats our patients like family. Dr. Redlinger and his team are committed to:
- Personalized Attention: You’ll receive individualized care and attention throughout your recovery.
- Clear Communication: We’ll provide detailed post-operative instructions and answer all your questions.
- Advanced Technology: Our in-house lab and advanced technology, including AI-driven navigation (X-Guide), contribute to precise and efficient procedures, promoting smoother recovery.
- Accessibility: You’ll always get Dr. Redlinger.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
To ensure a smooth and speedy recovery, here are some helpful tips:
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Redlinger and our team.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest, especially in the first few days.
- Manage Pain: Take pain medication as prescribed.
- Control Swelling: Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse with salt water and maintain good oral hygiene.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Avoid hard, chewy, or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical sites.
- No Smoking or Straws: Refrain from smoking and using straws, as they can hinder healing.
Why Choose Us
Choosing Reno-Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center means choosing:
- Experience and Skill: Dr. Redlinger is a highly skilled and experienced oral surgeon.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: We utilize the latest technology for precise and efficient treatment.
- Compassionate Care: We treat our patients with the utmost care and respect, like members of our own family.
- Local Knowledge: Dr. Redlinger is a local surgeon with a passion for serving the Northern Nevada community.
Your Comfort and Care are Our Priority
With Dr. Redlinger’s experience, our advanced technology, and our family-oriented approach, you can trust that you’re in good hands. We prioritize your comfort and well-being, ensuring a smooth recovery and a positive experience.
Learn more about our wisdom teeth removal procedure, including what to expect and how we can help. We’re here to answer your questions and provide the personalized care you deserve.
