Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth generally erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. If these third molars come in properly, they do not require removal. In cases where there is not adequate room for them to erupt, they may come in sideways or at an angle in the jaw. These teeth are impacted and may partially emerge or remain completely below the gumline.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause many problems, including infection, misalignment of the rest of the teeth, formation of tumors or cysts around the impacted teeth, and more.

Evaluation of Wisdom Teeth

Dr. Kelly or Dr. Reece will perform an oral examination and a panoramic x-ray to evaluate the current position of the teeth and decide whether extraction is necessary. Early evaluation and treatment result in the best patient outcomes.

Extraction

In most cases, the extraction is performed with local anesthesia with the addition of IV anesthesia. All anesthesia options and their benefits/risks will be discussed with you prior to the procedure. After extraction, the gums are sutured. Gauze will be placed over the sutures, and you will be instructed to bite down on the gauze to stop any bleeding. We will ask you to rest in the office until you are ready to be driven home.

A postoperative kit with instructions, extra gauze, an ice pack, and a prescription for pain medication will be provided. The sutures dissolve, so no follow-up appointment is necessary.
dr. stephen kelly, colorado west oral and maxillofacial surgery
Prior to surgery in our Grand Junction or Carbondale office, please review these instructions on our Surgical Instructions page. If you have any questions, please call 970-245-2222.

Contact Us

Grand Junction Location 2530 N 8th St #103 Grand Junction, CO 81501

Hours

Monday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Carbondale Location Verheul Family Dentistry 1199 Village Rd #100 Carbondale, CO 81623

Hours

Dr. Kelly sees patients in Carbondale on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. We work out of Verheul Family Dentistry. If this location is more convenient for you, please ask us about it when you schedule your appointment.

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