Wisdom Teeth Removal Westminster MA

Oral Examination

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Manzella or Dr. Moynahan can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctors are trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.

Do You Need Relief from Wisdom Teeth Pain?

Don’t suffer any longer! Drs. Manzella or Moynahan can gently extract wisdom teeth to prevent future complications.

Call us: 978-874-7363

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen. Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until the early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:

A representation of a pericoronitis infection on a wisdom tooth

Infection:

The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.

An example of a cyst formation on a wisdom tooth

Cyst Formation:

Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jaw bone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.

An illustration of teeth crowding caused by a wisdom tooth

Possible Crowding:

Impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of your teeth. This is most noticeable with the front teeth, primarily the lower front teeth and is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are a number of factors that cause teeth to crowd after braces or in early adulthood. Retained, impacted wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor. Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone.

A visual of a wisdom tooth damaging an adjacent tooth

Damage to Adjacent Teeth:

If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.

What If I Don’t Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed As A Teenager Or Young Adult?

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense.When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.

What Happens On The Day Wisdom Teeth Are Removed?

Most people prefer to be unaware of the experience when they have their wisdom teeth removed and usually decide to be sedated. You will be provided with appropriate anesthesia options at your consultation. All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Our office staff has the training, licensing, and experience to provide the various types of anesthesia offered. These services are provided in an environment of optimum safety, utilizing modern monitoring equipment and a well trained experienced staff. The Surgical Care Team, the office facilities, and the doctors are inspected on behalf of the Board of Dental Examiners on a regular basis.

On the day of your procedure, you will take medications to help minimize post-operative pain and swelling. We ask that a parent or responsible adult accompanies you to the office and plans to stay with you the rest of the day. The procedure will take about 60 minutes and you will probably be in the office for 90 minutes to 2 hours. Recent advances in medicine and technology allow patients to undergo wisdom tooth removal in a manner, which promotes rapid healing and minimal post-operative discomfort. State of the art sterilization and infection control techniques are used at all times.

On the morning or afternoon of your surgery, it is essential that you have nothing to eat or drink (excluding prescription medications with a sip of water) for 6 hours (preferably longer). This does not mean you should try to fit in one “last meal” exactly six hours before your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications, including nausea and vomiting. Your procedure will be rescheduled if you have not heeded these guidelines. We may provide you with a prescription for pain medication at your consultation appointment, which for your convenience, can be filled in advance. When you are seated in the surgical room, we will make every effort to make you as comfortable as possible. If you are going to have some form of sedation, you would usually take the prescription one hour before your appointment. Nitrous Oxide will be used to keep you calm and relaxed during the procedure.  Local anesthesia is given to you to ensure comfort, and allow adequate time to travel home and rest. You may be sleepy for a significant portion of the day depending of the medication.

Smiling teenage son with his mother

The Day of Treatment

Be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.

If your surgery requires stitches, these are usually the type that dissolve in 3 to 5 days and do not require removal. You may also notice a sensation of your gums feeling swollen and pulling away from your teeth. This is all part of the normal recovery, and will subside in several days.

Once the local anesthesia wears off, you may require prescription pain medication. Please try non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®) first, to see if that adequately treats your pain. If not, begin your other prescription pain medication. The local anesthesia may last until the following day, and should not be confused with an injury to your nerve. We recommend starting your post-operative diet with clear liquids such as jello and broths, gradually increasing in substance as your body permits.

We do not recommend using dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream or milkshakes on the day of surgery, as nausea and vomiting may develop in conjunction with the anesthetic and pain medication. If you are given antibiotics and you take birth control pills, please be aware that the birth control pills might become ineffective and take appropriate precautions.

What Does Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost And Is It Covered By Insurance?

The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. Our office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.

What If I Have Questions Before Surgery?

At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Wachusett Family Dental Office Phone Number 978-874-7363 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.

A smiling woman

The Day of Treatment

Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.

Patient Reviews for Wisdom Teeth Removal

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Wachusett Family Dental, LLC

5 out of 5 stars based on 13 Wisdom Teeth Removal reviews

Patient Review

I've been a patient at Wachusett Family Dental of at least 10 years. I have never been a fan of going to the dentist but my experience here has been enjoyable. I am always been greeted with a smile and ushered right in. Amber has become a friend that I look forward to seeing and talking with. Dr. Palermo is attentive and gentle, listens to patients, and gets us right out of there. I highly recommend this office if you're skittish about dental work.

- Heidi F

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

For the past 11 years I can honestly say that going to the Dentist has never, ever been torture. It has always been a pleasure. I have been treated with the utmost respect, courtesy, professionalism, and the staff are friendly, kind and caring. The services you provide are exemplary. Everyone takes great pride in the work they do and it shows. Your positivity, along with your smiles goes a long way in creating long lasting client relationships and rapport.

- Therese R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

I can't say enough about Dr. Palermo and his amazing staff. They are highly skilled and caring. I always feel welcome there and they never try to upcharge me or perform unnecessary procedures. If you are looking for a dentist or not satisfied with your current one give them a try. You will never look back.

- William F

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Being seen on the first day of the "opening" during the pandemic I found this practice to be completely prepared to keep both the patients and the staff as safe as possible. They are doing a wonderful job there and you should have no fear of going for whatever procedure you might need. I give them all a two thumbs up!

- Iva M

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Everyone made me feel so comfortable! Very knowledgeable and friendly staff , dentist was excellent ! Highly recommend ! Very clean and modern space, makes you feel at home!

- Katie S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Great service and friendly staff. Dr. P saw me right away and took care of my pain. Very Happy.

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

I saw Tiffany the other day and she is amazing!

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

I was so nervous coming in, Dr. Palermo and his staff made me feel so welcome and relaxed, I just want to say "Thank You"!

- Heather B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Very happy to be a patient here!

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Very impressed with how this office feels clean and sterile yet like a home. Will get the rest of the family to come.....

- Erin C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Very impressed with how both clean, sterile yet homy this office feels. Will want the rest of my family to come...

- Erin C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

I've always been fearful of the dentist. This started from when I was a little kid. However after coming to see Dr. Palermo this has changed. From the time I walked into the office I felt welcome. The office reminds me of a home. Everyone if friendly and courteous. Dr. Palermo made me feel calm and relaxed. I'm so happy I found a great dentist!

- Jessica P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review

Beautiful Office. Very impressed with the doctor's knowledge and the staff's willingness to help. Would recommend all my family and friends!

- James C

5 out of 5 stars on