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Wisdom Teeth Removal in Crystal Lake, IL

Prevent Costly Future Surgeries and Relieve Pain by Removing Wisdom Teeth Early

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, should be removed early because there is not enough room in the human mouth to accommodate extra molars. Leaving wisdom teeth untreated could lead to costly and painful surgeries in the future.

When you or your child are in need of having wisdom teeth evaluated or extracted, trust in the oral surgery experts at Lehman & Menis Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Specialists. Contact our office in Crystal Lake, IL, today to schedule your appointment.

What Kind of Dentist Removes Wisdom Teeth?

Both general dentists and oral surgeons can remove wisdom teeth. However, a general dentist’s scope of treatment is much more limited than that of a surgeon. Dentists can often perform simple extractions, such as when a wisdom tooth has erupted through the gums and can be removed only using forceps and local anesthetic. When a patient requires anesthesia, complex surgery, or has an impacted wisdom tooth, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the one to perform treatment.

Oral surgeons, such as Dr. Gregory A. Lehman and Dr. Michael A. Menis, undergo training beyond dental school. Oral surgeons are the only dental professionals qualified to administer local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia.

Benefits of Having Wisdom Teeth Removed

By removing wisdom teeth early, you are taking steps to prevent a number of oral health complications that may arise due to untreated wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth extraction can provide these benefits:

  • Relieve pain

  • Prevent infection

  • Prevent dental crowding

  • Prevent cysts, growths, and tumors

When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Early to mid-teen years are usually the time to remove wisdom teeth. Younger patients tend to have more comfortable procedures and much faster recoveries, which equates to less time away from work or school and less overall discomfort. X-rays or other diagnostic scans during your regular dental checkups with your dentist will help determine the timing.

Common Wisdom Teeth Problems

The average mouth does not have enough room to accommodate an extra set of molars. They have large roots that can damage the roots of other teeth or facial nerves. When a wisdom tooth grows sideways and partially erupts through the gum tissue, it is considered to be impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth will not naturally erupt, and surgical intervention is necessary to protect the health of other teeth.

Other problems associated with wisdom teeth include:

  • Tooth decay or infection as a result of impacted teeth being difficult to clean
  • Tooth infections can cause cysts or tumors to form around the tooth
  • Ongoing bad breath caused by infection
  • Damage to nearby teeth, including cavities, which can play a role in developing gum disease
  • Damaged facial nerves can be incredibly painful and cause numbness in the gums, lips, tongue, or jaw
  • Painful, swollen gums

Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

At Lehman & Menis Dental Implant and Oral Surgery Specialists, we take the time to answer all of your questions and make you feel comfortable about your treatment details. We will take 3D scans and discuss your anesthesia options during the consultation.

During Your Procedure

Your surgeon will administer the chosen form of anesthesia and extract the wisdom teeth. Then, your surgeon will administer local anesthesia to your surgical sites to ensure comfort and allow adequate time to travel home and rest. The procedure typically takes about 60 minutes to complete.

After Your Procedure

If you had general anesthesia or IV sedation, you can expect to be sleepy for a significant portion of the day. The local anesthesia will wear off once you are home, and you may require prescription pain medication for continued comfort. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen may be sufficient. Your post-operative instructions will guide you along your recovery journey, and you can always contact us with any questions.

Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Crystal Lake, IL

It is important for us to provide outstanding oral surgery services at a reasonable cost for our patients. Wisdom teeth procedures will vary in cost, depending on insurance coverage, the number of wisdom teeth in question, the choice of anesthesia, and other factors. Once we create your treatment plan, we will be able to provide a cost estimate. We will also help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.

Wisdom Teeth Removal For Patients in Crystal Lake, Barrington, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Huntley, Elgin, and Algonquin, IL

Dr. Lehman and Dr. Menis perform wisdom tooth extractions in the comfort of our Crystal Lake office. We are conveniently located for patients in Barrington, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Huntley, Elgin, Algonquin, and many other surrounding areas.


Hear From Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed if they haven't caused any problems yet?

Just because your wisdom teeth are not causing pain does not mean there are no issues. Wisdom teeth can develop without causing discomfort, but can slowly be pushing against other molars and shifting alignment. The root of a wisdom tooth could grow in the direction of other roots or nerves, and you may only feel pain if it strikes the nerve. By having wisdom teeth extracted, you prevent these issues from having the chance to arise.

Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?

Some discomfort with any surgery, including wisdom teeth surgery, is to be expected. To keep you as comfortable as possible during your procedure, you and your oral surgeon will select an anesthesia or sedation option during your consultation appointment. Our team will make sure that you are completely at ease before any procedure takes place.

What is the recovery like after wisdom teeth removal?

Plan on taking it easy and sticking to a soft-food diet for at least a couple of days. Ice packs are useful for bringing swelling down, and over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and Tylenol® can help manage discomfort. Brush your teeth and extraction sites carefully and do not use straws to prevent dry socket. You will receive detailed instructions from our office to guide you through the healing process.

What dietary restrictions must I follow, and for how long?

We recommend a soft diet for at least a couple of days following the removal of your wisdom teeth, but you may advance on your own as tolerated.

Is wisdom teeth removal a surgery?

Wisdom tooth extraction is an oral surgery procedure. Patients often undergo IV sedation, which puts patients into a semi-conscious state. When undergoing IV sedation, you must have a designated driver take you home after your surgery and remain with you for 24 hours.

Questions? We Are Here to Help

Our staff is here to answer your questions and guide you throughout your journey with our practice. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment.