Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Fresno, CA

When it comes to wisdom teeth extraction, choosing the right dentist makes all the difference in your comfort and recovery. At Nivedita Nijhawan DDS, we provide gentle, comprehensive care for wisdom teeth removal in a comfortable environment. Dr. Nivedita Nijhawan combines advanced techniques with a compassionate approach to ensure your extraction experience is as smooth and pain-free as possible.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in your mouth. These teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, though timing can vary significantly from person to person. Most people develop four wisdom teeth—one in each corner of the mouth—though some individuals may have fewer or none at all.

Wisdom teeth are evolutionary remnants from our ancestors, who needed these extra molars to help process a rougher diet of roots, nuts, and raw meat. Today’s modern diet and smaller jaw size mean these teeth often lack sufficient space to emerge properly, leading to various complications that may require extraction.

The position and development of wisdom teeth can be monitored through regular dental X-rays, allowing Dr. Nijhawan to track their progress and identify potential problems before they become serious issues.

Dentist showing patient dental X-ray while discussing wisdom teeth removal in Fresno

Why are Wisdom Teeth So Often Removed?

While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, extraction is often recommended to prevent or address several common problems:

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When there isn’t enough room in the jaw, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they’re unable to emerge properly. This impaction can occur in various ways:

  • Partial impaction, where only part of the tooth breaks through the gum
  • Complete impaction, where the tooth remains fully beneath the gum line
  • Angled impaction, where teeth grow at incorrect angles toward adjacent teeth

Oral Health Complications

Wisdom teeth that don’t emerge properly can create several problems:

  • Infection around partially emerged teeth due to bacteria trapped beneath the gum
  • Crowding of existing teeth, potentially undoing previous orthodontic work
  • Decay in hard-to-reach areas that are difficult to clean properly
  • Gum disease around wisdom teeth that can’t be adequately maintained
  • Cysts or other complications from impacted teeth

Prevention of Future Problems

Even when wisdom teeth aren’t currently causing issues, extraction may be recommended as a preventive measure to avoid potential complications later in life.

What is the Extraction Process?

Dr. Nijhawan uses modern techniques and careful planning to make wisdom teeth extraction as comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-Extraction Consultation

  • Comprehensive examination and X-rays to assess tooth position
  • Discussion of your medical history and any concerns
  • Review of anesthesia options and post-operative care instructions
  • Opportunity to ask questions about the procedure

During the Procedure

The extraction process varies depending on whether the teeth are fully emerged or impacted:

Simple Extraction (for fully emerged teeth):

  • Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area completely
  • The tooth is gently loosened and carefully removed
  • The extraction site is cleaned and prepared for healing

Surgical Extraction (for impacted teeth):

  • Local anesthesia or sedation options are provided for your comfort
  • A small incision may be made in the gum tissue to access the tooth
  • The tooth is carefully sectioned, if necessary, to facilitate gentle removal
  • The area is thoroughly cleaned and sutured if needed

Post-Procedure Care

  • Detailed aftercare instructions are provided
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing
  • Guidelines for managing any temporary swelling or discomfort

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ

How long does wisdom teeth extraction take?
Simple extractions typically take 15–30 minutes per tooth, while surgical extractions may take 30–60 minutes depending on complexity.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Local anesthesia is standard for most extractions. For complex cases or anxious patients, sedation options are available to enhance comfort.
How much pain should I expect after extraction?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for 2–3 days following extraction. Dr. Nijhawan will provide appropriate pain management recommendations.
What can I do to minimize swelling?
Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling. Following all post-operative instructions is essential.
When can I return to normal activities?
Most patients can return to work or school within 1–2 days, though strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.
What foods should I avoid after extraction?
Stick to soft foods for the first few days and avoid hot liquids, alcohol, and foods that could irritate the extraction site.
How do I prevent infection after surgery?
Follow all aftercare instructions, including gentle saltwater rinses, taking prescribed medications as directed, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
What are the signs of complications?
Contact our office immediately if you experience severe pain that worsens after day 3, excessive bleeding, signs of infection, or persistent numbness.
Will my insurance cover wisdom teeth extraction?
Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for wisdom teeth removal, especially when medically necessary. Our office will help verify your benefits.

Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed? Give Us a Call Now!

Don’t let wisdom teeth pain or complications affect your daily life. Dr. Nivedita Nijhawan and our experienced team are here to provide gentle, professional care for your wisdom teeth extraction needs. We understand that dental surgery can feel overwhelming, which is why we take extra time to ensure you’re comfortable and well-informed throughout the entire process.

Our Fresno office is equipped with the latest technology to make your extraction as efficient and comfortable as possible. We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

Ready to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation? Call us today at 559-224-1303. We’re here to help you achieve optimal oral health with compassionate, professional dental care.

Smiling woman in dental chair after wisdom teeth removal at Fresno dentist office

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