Wisdom teeth are the final molars to develop, usually appearing in the late teens or early 20s. Some grow in without causing concerns, but many do not have enough space to erupt correctly. A wisdom tooth may remain beneath the gums, come in at an angle, partially erupt or become difficult to clean. These issues can lead to pressure, pain, swelling, infection, cavities or damage to the neighboring tooth. At Associates In Family Dentistry & Specialists of Greeley, Dr. Stuart Long and our team provide personalized wisdom teeth removal in Greeley, Colorado. We invite you to call us at 970-673-7900 today to schedule your personal consultation with our skilled oral surgeon and learn more.
When Wisdom Teeth Need Attention
Wisdom tooth pain can make it hard to eat, sleep, focus or comfortably open your mouth. If you have tenderness near the back of your jaw, recurring gum irritation, facial swelling or a bad taste around a wisdom tooth, scheduling an evaluation can help identify the source of the problem. Early care may help prevent an issue from becoming more uncomfortable or complex.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. Some wisdom teeth erupt fully, remain healthy and can be cleaned effectively at home. Others may need closer monitoring or removal because of their position, symptoms or impact on nearby teeth and gums. We will review all relevant findings with you before making a recommendation.
Experience You Can Trust
Dr. Long has been performing tooth extractions and oral surgery since 2019 and has completed thousands of wisdom tooth extractions, including routine, surgical, partially impacted and fully impacted cases.
We begin with a thorough evaluation of your oral health, symptoms and dental X-rays. Panoramic imaging is routinely used to evaluate wisdom teeth, and CBCT imaging may also be used when additional three-dimensional detail is needed for treatment planning. This helps us understand the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend care based on your individual needs. You will never be rushed through a decision. Our oral surgeon will explain what we see, answer your questions and help you feel prepared for the next step.
What To Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure, but every patient’s needs are different. Most cases can be completed in our Greeley dental office, while medically compromised patients who require a hospital setting may be referred for additional care.
The treatment process depends on how many teeth need attention, how they are positioned and the condition of the surrounding bone and gum tissue. Dr. Long uses minimally traumatic surgical techniques designed to help make the procedure as smooth as possible and support a more comfortable recovery.
Your comfort matters to us. IV sedation is available for appropriate wisdom tooth removal cases. Dr. Long has completed thousands of sedation cases and has advanced training in IV moderate sedation and dental anesthesiology, including more than 60 hours of didactic instruction and more than 20 clinical sedation cases through the Summit Institute, along with anesthesiology externships and rotations at several major institutions.
We will review your treatment plan in clear, straightforward language so you know what to expect before, during and after your visit. Many patients tell us the procedure felt smoother than they expected and are surprised when they wake up to learn the treatment is already complete.
Recovery and Aftercare
Mild swelling and soreness are common during the first few days after wisdom teeth removal. Our team will let you know what is normal, what to avoid and when to contact us with concerns. We are here to make sure you feel supported throughout the healing process, not simply during the procedure itself.
After a wisdom tooth extraction, most patients need time to rest and eat soft foods while the area heals. It is important to follow your post-treatment directions carefully, keep the extraction site clean as instructed and avoid activities that could disturb the blood clot.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation Today
If you are dealing with wisdom tooth discomfort or have been told that your third molars need attention, call 970-673-7900 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stuart Long. We are proud to offer wisdom tooth extraction in Greeley, CO, for patients seeking experienced, compassionate and individualized dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
An exam and dental X-rays allow our dentists to evaluate the position and health of your wisdom teeth. Removal may be recommended for pain, infection, crowding, cavities, gum problems or pressure against neighboring teeth.
Can wisdom teeth cause pain even if they have not erupted?
Yes. A wisdom tooth can cause pressure or discomfort while it is still beneath the gums. Impacted teeth can also affect the surrounding bone, gums or nearby molars.
Can impacted wisdom teeth be removed in your office?
Yes. We routinely treat erupted, partially impacted and fully impacted wisdom teeth in our Greeley office. Patients with medical conditions that require a hospital setting may be referred for additional care.
Do you offer sedation for wisdom teeth removal?
Yes. IV sedation is available for appropriate patients undergoing wisdom tooth removal. We will discuss your comfort options and determine what is appropriate based on your health and treatment needs.
How long does it take to recover after wisdom teeth removal?
Many patients return to normal routines within a few days, although complete healing takes longer. Recovery depends on the number of teeth removed and the complexity of the extraction.
What foods should I eat after a wisdom tooth extraction?
Soft foods are usually recommended at first, such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies and soup that has cooled to a comfortable temperature. Avoid crunchy, sticky or hard foods until instructed otherwise.
What should I avoid after wisdom teeth removal?
Avoid smoking, using straws, vigorous rinsing and strenuous activity during the early stages of healing. These actions can interfere with the extraction site and delay recovery.