Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal in Irvine, CA

Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

1. Soft Tissue Impaction

The wisdom tooth is partially covered by gum tissue, making it difficult to clean and prone to infection.

2. Partial Bony Impaction

The tooth is partially covered by both gum tissue and jawbone, making eruption painful and problematic.

3. Complete Bony Impaction

The wisdom tooth is fully trapped within the jawbone, requiring surgical extraction to prevent damage to surrounding teeth and bone.

Signs & Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, you may experience:

• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Swelling, redness, or tenderness of the gums
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully
• Jaw stiffness or discomfort
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
• Cavities, infections, or damage to neighboring teeth

If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to serious complications, including infections, cyst formation, and shifting of teeth.

Why Remove Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Removing impacted wisdom teeth prevents long-term dental issues, such as:

✔ Crowding & Misalignment – Prevents shifting of surrounding teeth.
✔ Infections & Abscesses – Reduces the risk of gum disease and bacterial infections.
✔ Cysts & Jawbone Damage – Prevents cyst formation that can erode jawbone structure.
✔ Tooth Decay & Gum Disease – Eliminates hard-to-reach areas where bacteria accumulate.

For younger patients, early removal (between ages 16-20) is recommended for faster healing and fewer complications.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

Step 1: Consultation & 3D Imaging

• We perform a thorough examination with 3D imaging to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth.
• We discuss anesthesia options to ensure maximum comfort during surgery.

Step 2: Surgical Extraction

• If the tooth is partially erupted, a small incision is made in the gum to expose it.
• For fully impacted teeth, bone removal may be necessary.
• The tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.

Step 3: Sutures & Recovery

• Sutures are placed to aid healing, and gauze is applied to control bleeding.
• Patients rest under supervision before being discharged with detailed post-operative instructions.

Post-Surgical Recovery & Care

Following surgery, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery.

What to Expect After Surgery

• Swelling & discomfort for 3-5 days
• Ice packs applied for the first 24 hours reduce swelling
• Soft food diet for the first few days
• Avoid using straws to prevent dry socket

Common Healing Concerns

1. Dry Socket

• Occurs when the blood clot dislodges, exposing the bone.
• Prevent this by avoiding smoking, using straws, or vigorous rinsing.
• If pain occurs, we may place a medicated dressing for relief.

2. Nerve Sensitivity

• Temporary numbness or tingling may occur, especially in older patients.
• Symptoms typically resolve over time.

3. Sinus Issues (Upper Wisdom Teeth Only)

• Rarely, an opening may form between the mouth and sinus.
• This usually heals naturally, but special instructions may be given (e.g., no nose-blowing for 2-3 days).

For any concerns, we are always available to assist with post-operative care.

Why Choose Honest Oral Surgeon for Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal?

At Honest Oral Surgeon, we provide expert care with a focus on patient comfort and safety.

• Board-Certified Oral Surgeons – Dr. Eric Kim & Dr. Blair Ota are highly skilled in impacted wisdom teeth extractions.
• State-of-the-art technology – We use 3D imaging for precise treatment planning.
• Comprehensive Sedation Options – From local anesthesia to general anesthesia, we ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques – Reducing pain, swelling, and downtime.
• Personalized Post-Operative Care – We provide detailed recovery instructions and follow-ups for optimal healing.