Wisdom Teeth Removal
Are You Living With Pain Because of Your Wisdom Teeth? Schedule a consultation today
There are many reasons you might need your wisdom teeth removed, but pain is a common one. Dr. Dustin J. Hopkin and his experienced team can help relieve the symptoms and prevent further oral health issues. With advanced technology and sedation options, Hopkin Oral Surgery in Salt Lake City, UT, provides comprehensive care. Say goodbye to the pain! Call us or request a consultation online today.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Explore the Benefits
Experience Pain Relief
Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can cause painful symptoms that affect you or your child's everyday life. It can be challenging to eat, sleep, or perform daily activities without focusing on your teeth. Wisdom teeth removal at our Salt Lake City oral surgery office provides instant relief by eliminating the source of the problem.Avoid More Extensive Issues
Undergoing wisdom teeth removal reduces the risk of misalignment and damage to surrounding teeth, which would require more expensive and time-consuming dental care to repair in the future. By acting now, you can save time and money and experience peace of mind.
Improve Your Oral Health
Wisdom teeth can make brushing and flossing more challenging. Because bacteria can get trapped in hard-to-reach places, patients may have bad breath and an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Wisdom teeth removal significantly improves oral health and hygiene, helping you feel better.
Hear from Our Patients "Highly recommend to anyone looking for wisdom tooth removal!"
Dylan Martinez
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Went in for wisdom teeth surgery, and the staff and doctor were amazing. Very friendly and informative. They made sure I was okay, and the procedure went off without a hitch
View on Googleprestonkamp127
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
They took me very seriously, got me in as soon as they could, and made sure I felt welcome when I was there! Not to mention very reassuring about my complaints being valid and caring for it appropriately with my wisdom tooth recovery process. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a wisdom tooth removal!
View on GoogleUnderstanding Wisdom Tooth Basics
Wisdom teeth are the common name for our third set of molars, which typically begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. They come in at the very back of the mouth behind the existing molars. In some cases, third molars erupt without any problems. In other cases, they can cause pain, inflamed gums, or misalignment of surrounding teeth. Some wisdom teeth may become impacted, or unable to erupt through the gums.
Do You Have Any of These Symptoms? You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Chronic Bad Breath
Wisdom teeth can cause chronic bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth due to bacteria build-up, trapped food, or infection.Inflamed Gums
When a tooth has partially erupted, the gums around it become swollen and sore to the touch.Tooth Decay
Due to their location in the mouth, wisdom teeth are challenging to clean, making them susceptible to tooth decay.Sinus Issues
Wisdom teeth can cause headaches and other uncomfortable sinus issues due to added pressure in the jaws.Misalignment
Wisdom teeth that grow in crooked often trigger misalignment, making surrounding teeth shift out of place.Jaw Pain
Patients who need their wisdom teeth removed often find it difficult to open their mouths due to stiffness and soreness.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend that you request an evaluation at our Salt Lake City office right away.
"I Would Recommend Them to Everyone" 5-Star Reviews for Our Salt Lake City Practice
Myrissa Moralez
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
By far one the best experiences I’ve ever had with any doctors or dental office. I called in on Wednesday sobbing and the receptionist Brittani was so sweet and understanding. She said I probably have an infection and the soonest she could do was Friday but to head to the ER. I came in today (10/27) and was seen promptly. All of the assistants were kind and explained everything thoroughly. Dr. Hopkins was very nice and professional. Yvette even called me before she left to check up on me and asked me if I needed anything. I really appreciate this team, they’re so kind and thoughtful. I would recommend them to everyone and I will be returning to get the other 3 taken out.
View on GoogleStephanie Lund
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Dr. Hopkin is very knowledgeable, efficient and capable!! His education and experience are impressive and reassuring. I’m so glad I found him! He’s easy to talk to, and he’s honest and straightforward with information. His staff is personable and well trained. I really enjoy working with them. They make the office experience positive and very pleasant. I’ve had very good results and I will recommend them going forward.
View on GoogleVisit Our Warm and Inviting Office
For many patients, wisdom tooth removal is the first surgery they will ever undergo, so it's normal for the procedure to sound scary. However, wisdom tooth removal is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures at our office.
The Hopkin Oral Surgery team strives to help patients feel comfortable during their visit with us by creating a calm, easygoing environment. We understand that wisdom teeth removal can be stressful or intimidating, but we use advanced techniques and offer gentle sedation options to make the extraction as pain-free as possible. To request a consultation or learn more, call our Salt Lake City, UT, dental office at:
(801) 277-3942
More Reasons Why We Recommend Wisdom Teeth Removal
Insufficient Space
A big reason why wisdom teeth are so problematic is that many people's jaws are too small to accommodate them. As a result, erupting wisdom teeth can cause existing teeth to shift out of alignment. This can cause considerable discomfort and may even require orthodontic treatment to correct.
Partially Erupted Tooth
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets of gum tissue that can collect bacteria and debris. Over time, this can lead to bad breath, periodontal infection, and even abscesses.
Preventative Care
Many oral surgeons recommend removing wisdom teeth before they begin to cause problems. Early removal reduces the chances of wisdom tooth-related oral health problems that may require more extensive, costly dental care in the future.
Does Age Matter When Removing Wisdom Teeth?
/
Age can make a difference. In younger people, the jawbone hasn't fully hardened. But with each passing year, wisdom teeth become more firmly anchored. In older adults, the teeth and bones may have hardened so much that the jaw and surrounding teeth could be damaged when the wisdom teeth are removed.
Watch How a Wisdom Tooth Causes Misalignment
In a small jaw, erupting wisdom teeth can cause misalignment and many other health problems.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are impacted when they are unable to fully grow in. Some impacted wisdom teeth remain trapped under the bone or gums, while others only partially erupt. Impacted teeth are problematic because they are unpredictable and can grow in many different ways. When they grow in sideways, they can damage other tooth roots or nerves, causing a host of oral health issues. Dr. Hopkin uses advanced imaging tools at his Salt Lake City office to view exactly where and how the tooth is impacted in order to plan the most precise surgery.
We Use Advanced Technology
to Provide the Highest Quality Care in Utah
Our dental office is proud to utilize state-of-the-art technology when planning your wisdom tooth extraction. Instead of just using X-rays, we use 3-D imaging equipment to gain a comprehensive view of your entire mouth and jaw. This allows us to pinpoint exactly where your wisdom teeth are located and how they affect surrounding teeth. Based on our findings, we can create a customized treatment plan. Thanks to our careful planning and eye for detail, treatment is incredibly precise and virtually pain-free. To learn more, schedule a consultation online or call our Salt Lake City office in Utah at:
(801) 277-3942
Wisdom Tooth Removal Is Virtually Painless Thanks to Our Sedation Options
Here at Hopkin Oral Surgery in Salt Lake City, UT, your comfort is our greatest priority. In addition to local anesthesia, we offer different types of sedation. Patients who need more than one tooth extracted usually opt for sedation.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as "laughing gas," nitrous oxide is a simple but effective way to help you feel calm and relaxed during your procedure. Patients inhale nitrous oxide through a mask during the duration of their procedure, and the effects immediately wear off when the mask is removed. There is no grogginess or disorientation after, so you can drive yourself home after surgery.
IV Sedation
Intravenous (IV) sedation is an excellent option for patients who prefer to be completely relaxed or asleep during their procedure. This option is considered more invasive because it is administered through a needle in your arm or hand, helping you achieve deeper levels of relaxation than nitrous oxide. If you receive IV sedation, you will need a family member or friend to drive you home from the procedure.
Hear From More Happy Patients
Angela Bocage
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Dr Hopkins explained to me in terms that I could understand about my oral situation. He gave me a piece of mind!
View on Googlebuddy knotts
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
I had a wonderful time with the staff and the doctor my recovery was great. I would recommend anybody to go there and wouldn't regret it.
View on GoogleWhat to Expect during Recovery
Dr. Hopkin will prescribe pain medication to help minimize any discomfort. Patients may also choose to take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen.
Blood clots will form at the extraction sites after surgery. It is important not to drink out of a straw or make a sucking motion with your mouth as this can dislodge the clots and cause dry socket.
It is normal to experience swelling for a few days after surgery. This decreases with time and can be alleviated by applying a cold compress to the jaw for the first 24 hours after surgery.
Patients must eat a soft food diet for the first few days following their procedure. Recommended foods include soup, applesauce, or yogurt. You will be able to add in more solid foods as healing progresses.
Patients must avoid exercise and other strenuous activity for the first few days after surgery. An increase in heart rate or blood pressure can cause more bleeding at the extraction site.
Prevent Future Oral Health Issues
Contact Our Dental Practice Today
Some patients choose to have their wisdom teeth removed as a precaution. Patients who have their wisdom teeth removed at a younger age have fewer complications than those who wait. It can also prevent further oral health issues such as shifting, decay, and infections.
Dr. Hopkin and his team can guide you through the process and help you determine if this is a good course of action for you. Patients travel from all over Utah to experience our high level of care. Contact our Salt Lake City dental practice today for a consultation.
"The operation (wisdom teeth removal) and risks were explained very clearly, staff were very understanding of my previous medical trauma. They were very patient with my distress when going under, and also very patient with what was apparently a very persistent stream of compliments when waking back up. Good place."
Daisie Dragon, 2023
Explore Your Financing Options Yes, We Offer Them!
Our Salt Lake City dental office is committed to making wisdom teeth removal affordable for patients throughout Utah. Because wisdom tooth removal is considered a necessary procedure to maintain your oral health, it is usually partially or fully covered by insurance. For patients who have out-of-pocket costs, we offer in-house payment plans to help make treatment more affordable.
We also work with CareCredit, a third-party financing company that splits treatment costs into low or zero-percent interest payments. Our team is happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have. We are transparent with all of our pricing and provide you with an estimate during your consultation. Factors that affect pricing may include how many teeth are removed, the extent of treatment needed, and the sedation methods used.
More Questions About Wisdom Teeth and Extraction
Do I really need to have my wisdom teeth removed if they aren't causing pain?
According to a study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Foundation, wisdom teeth that erupt normally may still be prone to issues and disease. AAOMS recommends that patients have their wisdom teeth monitored and assessed if they are not removed.
What if I decide to keep my wisdom teeth?
If you decide to keep your wisdom teeth, the American Dental Association recommends that you monitor them for potential issues in the future. Most importantly, visiting your dentist for regularly scheduled exams can help catch issues before they progress. For example, if a wisdom tooth begins to decay, it can cause infections in your mouth, leading to other oral health issues and even tooth loss. If you begin to experience any symptoms or pain, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth are an issue if I am not in pain?
An X-ray can give Dr. Hopkin a detailed look at what is happening beneath the gum line. Your regular dentist can also monitor your teeth during routine exams to determine if any shifting has occurred and suggest wisdom teeth removal before it becomes a bigger issue.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket can occur after a tooth extraction when a blood clot does not develop or is dislodged before the extraction site is healed. That can cause inflammation, pain, and infection to occur in the area, and it is one of the most common complications following tooth removal. A dry socket can usually be prevented by following your oral surgeon's instructions.
How long does it take for the extraction site to fully heal?
Your extraction site should be fully or close to fully healed and closed by about six weeks following surgery. It will vary by patient and by the type of extraction you require.
"Painless...Everyone there is exceptional!"
Joe McRae
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
The care I have received was exceptional. Thank you Dr Hopkin and your amazing team of professionals for making me feel better. I will highly recommend you to everyone I know.
View on GoogleFrances Dolloph
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Painless, all questions fully answered, pleasant experience (imagine, oral surgery!) Highly recommend Everyone there is exceptional! Love Dr Hopkin.
View on Google
