Is It Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal? What Charlotte Families Need to Know
If you or a family member are experiencing discomfort at the back of your mouth, you may be facing one of the most common dental procedures: wisdom teeth removal. At Ascend Dentistry, we understand that the prospect of oral surgery can feel overwhelming, which is why Dr. Ivan Carrion and our experienced team are committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our Charlotte, NC practice has helped countless families navigate this important dental milestone with confidence and care.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, though complications can arise at any age. Many patients come to Ascend Dentistry for wisdom teeth removal when these teeth become impacted, cause pain, or threaten the alignment of surrounding teeth. Understanding when extraction is necessary and what the process entails can help you make informed decisions about your family's oral health.
Whether you're a parent researching options for your teenager or an adult finally addressing long-standing discomfort, the professional team at Ascend Dentistry is here to provide the sophisticated, personalized care you deserve.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not everyone requires wisdom teeth extraction, but Dr. Ivan Carrion typically recommends removal when these third molars pose a risk to your overall oral health. The most common scenario involves impaction, where the wisdom teeth don't have sufficient room to emerge properly from the gums. This can lead to teeth growing at awkward angles, potentially damaging neighboring molars or creating pockets where bacteria accumulate.
At Ascend Dentistry, we also evaluate wisdom teeth that have partially erupted, as these create challenging-to-clean areas that become magnets for decay and gum disease. Pain, swelling, and recurring infections around the wisdom teeth are clear indicators that extraction may be necessary. During your comprehensive examination at our Charlotte practice, Dr. Ivan Carrion uses advanced diagnostic imaging to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific situation.
Some patients benefit from proactive removal even before symptoms appear. Younger patients often experience easier recoveries because their wisdom teeth roots haven't fully developed, and their bone tissue is less dense. Our team at Ascend Dentistry takes a thorough approach to determining the optimal timing for your procedure, considering factors like tooth development, potential complications, and your overall health profile.
What to Expect During Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
Understanding the extraction process helps alleviate anxiety, which is why Ascend Dentistry prioritizes transparent communication throughout your care journey. Dr. Ivan Carrion begins with a detailed consultation where he reviews your imaging, discusses anesthesia options, and answers all your questions. We offer various sedation levels to ensure your complete comfort, from local anesthesia to deeper sedation options for more complex extractions or anxious patients.
The wisdom teeth removal procedure itself typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth being extracted and their positioning. Dr. Carrion's refined surgical technique minimizes tissue trauma, which translates to reduced swelling and faster healing times for our Charlotte, NC patients. Throughout the procedure, our attentive team monitors your comfort and vital signs, ensuring a safe and controlled environment.
Following your extraction at Ascend Dentistry, you'll receive comprehensive post-operative instructions tailored to your specific case. Most patients experience peak discomfort within the first 48 hours, with significant improvement by day three or four. We remain accessible throughout your recovery period, and our team encourages you to reach out with any concerns. This commitment to ongoing patient care distinguishes the experience at Ascend Dentistry from other dental practices in the Charlotte area.
Recovery and Aftercare: Setting You Up for Success
Proper aftercare is essential for smooth healing after wisdom teeth removal, and the team at Ascend Dentistry provides detailed guidance to optimize your recovery. During the first 24 hours, rest is paramount—plan to take it easy and have someone drive you home after your procedure. Applying ice packs to your cheeks in 20-minute intervals helps manage swelling, while prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications keep discomfort under control.
Dr. Ivan Carrion advises patients to stick with soft foods for several days following extraction. Smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and protein shakes provide nutrition without disturbing the surgical sites. Equally important is what to avoid: no straws, as the suction can dislodge the protective blood clots; no smoking, which dramatically impairs healing; and no vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours. After the initial day, gentle saltwater rinses help keep the area clean.
Most patients return to normal activities within three to five days, though complete healing of the extraction sites takes several weeks. Ascend Dentistry schedules follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. Should you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain that doesn't respond to medication, or signs of infection, our Charlotte, NC office is just a phone call away at 704-635-6588.
Why Choose Ascend Dentistry for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal
Selecting the right dental practice for oral surgery is a decision that impacts both your immediate comfort and long-term oral health. Ascend Dentistry has earned the trust of Charlotte families through our unwavering commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. Dr. Ivan Carrion brings extensive training in oral surgery techniques, combining technical precision with a gentle chairside manner that puts even anxious patients at ease.
Our state-of-the-art facility features advanced imaging technology that allows for meticulous treatment planning, ensuring your wisdom teeth extraction proceeds with optimal safety and efficiency. Beyond our clinical capabilities, Ascend Dentistry distinguishes itself through personalized attention—we take time to understand your concerns, explain your options in clear language, and craft treatment plans that align with your goals and schedule.
For families throughout Charlotte, NC, Ascend Dentistry represents a practice where sophisticated dental care meets genuine compassion. We recognize that wisdom teeth removal is often a family's first experience with oral surgery, and we're honored to guide you through this important step in maintaining lifelong oral health.
If you're experiencing wisdom teeth discomfort or have questions about whether extraction is right for you or your family member, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ivan Carrion at Ascend Dentistry. Our Charlotte team is ready to provide the expert evaluation and premium care you deserve. Contact us today at 704-635-6588 to begin your journey toward optimal oral health with a practice that truly puts your needs first.