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Dear valued patients,
You are a valued part of our dental family. The safety of our team and that of our patients remains our highest priority.
We are a group of highly trained clinicians here to serve people through rendering quality oral surgery care. We pride ourselves on having a highly trained clinical team caring for the oral health of all patients. Amidst this global coronavirus (COVID 19) outbreak, it’s important to reiterate the fact that your surgery team is well trained in infection prevention protocols (including ones for COVID 19). Please rest assured that we are in close daily monitoring of COVID 19 developments in partnership with our local and state health departments, World Health Organization (WHO), the US Center of Disease Control (CDC).
We want to personally reach out to share that in our office, we strictly adhere to or exceed the CDC guidelines for infection control in oral surgery health care settings, are dedicated to daily protocols of deep disinfection of the entire office, and sterilization of all instruments between patients. Your dental team is also committed to using appropriate protective garb such as gloves, gowns, masks, & eyewear to ensure infection control.
Please follow the CDC recommended guidelines in prevention of the spread of any viruses in this cold and flu season:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Stay home when you are sick, call your local health office to reschedule your appointment in 4 weeks or when you are well
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often, using either soap and water or alcohol-based hand gel for at least 20 seconds
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces at home/work
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and update you as needed. Guided by our deep commitment to service, we will continue to provide the highest quality of surgical care to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery Team
Quinton Slaughter DDS, MD
Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon1741 N. Hwy 67, Suite 100, Midlothian, TX 76065
469-649-8259
469-649-8256
What Should I Expect? Wisdom Teeth Surgery
Wisdom Teeth Surgery in Midlothian TX
Welcome to the Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery’s blog! Today, we’re discussing wisdom teeth and what you can expect from wisdom teeth surgery in Midlothian, TX. From understanding wisdom teeth to post-operative care, this post will guide you through the process so you know exactly what to expect.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to emerge in the oral cavity. Usually, they make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25, which coincides with late adolescence or early adulthood.
These molars can cause discomfort and sometimes require removal if they become impacted or cause issues with the alignment of other teeth. It is important to monitor the development of wisdom teeth and consult with our dentist for proper evaluation and guidance.
Common Issues Associated with Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, and even cysts or tumors. When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to emerge or grow in the correct position, they can become
impacted.
If you experience any of these issues with your wisdom teeth, it is important to consult with our oral surgeon for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
Wisdom Teeth Surgery Procedure
Our oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue during wisdom teeth surgery to access the impacted tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
Once the tooth is removed, the incision will be closed with dissolvable stitches. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and patients are usually given local anesthesia or IV sedation for comfort.
Signs Indicating the Need for Wisdom Teeth Surgery in Midlothian, TX
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.
Common signs include:
- Pain
- Swollen gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Discomfort while chewing
- Bad breath due to bacteria buildup
Neglecting these signs can lead to more severe issues, including gum disease and tooth decay.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing problematic wisdom teeth alleviates discomfort, prevents future dental complications, and protects overall oral health.
The Surgical Procedure: A Step-by-Step Explanation
Our Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery surgeon will begin by making a precise incision in the gum, allowing access to the affected tooth. With utmost care, the tooth and any obstructing bone will be removed.
The surgical site will then be thoroughly cleansed, and the wound will be delicately stitched to promote proper healing. Finally, gauze will be applied to manage any potential bleeding effectively. This careful procedure typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
Follow-Up Appointments and Aftercare Instructions
Our oral surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process and provide specific aftercare instructions. Following these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery and avoiding any potential complications.
Some common aftercare instructions include:
- Eating soft foods
- Avoiding straws, smoking, or drinking alcohol
- Taking prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed
- Keeping the surgical site clean by rinsing with salt water
It is important to follow these instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Schedule Your Consultation
Wisdom teeth surgery may seem daunting, but it is a common and safe procedure that can benefit your oral health. If you are experiencing any issues with your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us at Texas Institute of Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery in Midlothian, TX.