Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often cause crowding, pain, and infection as they emerge. In many cases, removing wisdom teeth prevents future dental problems like impaction, shifting teeth, and gum disease. At Hefner Dental , we provide safe and efficient wisdom tooth removal in Oklahoma City, OK, ensuring a smooth, comfortable experience. Our skilled dental team uses modern sedation techniques to minimize discomfort, making your procedure as stress-free as possible.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
- Impacted teeth (wisdom teeth stuck under the gums)
- Infection or cysts forming around wisdom teeth
- Teeth shifting due to a lack of space
If you are experiencing any of these issues, early removal can help prevent long-term complications. Call us today to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does A Tooth Extraction Hurt?
At Hefner Dental , we prioritize your comfort and pain management during every procedure. Tooth extractions are not painful, thanks to the use of local anesthesia and sedation options. You may feel slight pressure during the extraction, but no sharp pain. After the procedure, mild soreness is common, but over-the-counter pain relievers and following aftercare instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery.
Tip for faster recovery: Avoid using straws, smoking, or eating hard foods for the first few days to prevent dry socket.
How Long Does It Take To Heal After A Tooth Extraction?
Most patients experience initial healing within 7 to 10 days, but full recovery of the gum tissue and bone can take a few weeks. Healing time depends on:
- The location and size of the extracted tooth
- Whether the tooth was impacted or infected
- Your overall oral hygiene and aftercare routine
To speed up healing:
- Keep the extraction site clean, but avoid excessive rinsing.
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup.
- Follow our post-extraction care guidelines for best results.
What Can I Eat After A Tooth Extraction?
After a tooth extraction, it is best to eat soft, easy-to-chew foods to avoid irritating the extraction site. Recommended foods include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Soft rice or pasta
- Cold treats like yogurt or smoothies (without a straw)
- Avoid crunchy, spicy, or hot foods for the first few days, as they can disrupt healing. Drink plenty of water and avoid smoking or alcohol, as they can delay healing.
Comfort-First Care At Every Step
At Hefner Dental, wisdom tooth removal is approached with the same commitment to patient comfort, clinical precision, and honest communication that defines every procedure Dr. Phan performs. We understand that the idea of oral surgery can feel intimidating, which is why our team takes every measure to ensure you feel fully informed, fully comfortable, and fully at ease before anything begins. Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation are both available for patients who want additional support managing anxiety, and our team will walk you through exactly what to expect at every stage of your procedure and recovery. Noise-canceling headphones and a warm, welcoming environment ensure that your visit feels as far from a clinical experience as possible.
When your procedure is complete, we send you home with clear, detailed aftercare instructions and the confidence that our team is available if any questions arise. If you have been putting off wisdom tooth removal due to anxiety or uncertainty about what the process involves, Hefner Dental is the practice that changes that experience. Call us or book your consultation online today. We proudly serve patients throughout Oklahoma City, OK, and surrounding communities.