Gentle Wisdom Teeth Removal at Our Farmington Hills Office
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to appear—usually between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, these third molars don’t have enough room to grow properly. When they’re impacted or misaligned, they can cause pain, swelling, infections, or damage to nearby teeth. That’s why wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries performed today.
Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or your dentist recommends proactive removal, knowing what to expect can ease your anxiety and help you make the best decision for your health. Dr. Roman Shlafer, our Farmington Hills, MI dentist, provides gentle, precise wisdom teeth extractions in a safe and comfortable environment. He proudly serves patients from Novi, Livonia, Southfield, and surrounding communities. If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain, contact our Farmington Hills office immediately by calling (248) 781-0040.
Choosing Dr. Roman Shlafer for Wisdom Teeth Removal
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Roman Shlafer is recognized as a best dentist in Farmington Hills, MI. His approach combines advanced technology with patient-first care to ensure every wisdom teeth removal is safe, smooth, and stress-free. Patients from Novi, Livonia, Southfield, and other nearby areas trust him for his:
- Personalized consultations
- Compassionate and clear communication
- Sedation options for anxious patients
- Precision techniques that minimize discomfort and downtime
Searching for the best dentist near you for wisdom teeth extraction? Dr. Shlafer’s trusted care and experience make him a top choice.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth—two on the top and two on the bottom. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others experience problems because these teeth often don’t have enough room to grow properly. This can lead to them becoming impacted—trapped under the gums or growing in at an angle—which can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth.
Signs It’s Time to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but you may need an evaluation if you notice:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- Headaches or earaches
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Crowding of nearby teeth
Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, regular checkups with a top dentist in Farmington Hills like Dr. Shlafer can help monitor your wisdom teeth’s development and catch issues early.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The procedure starts with a comprehensive consultation and digital imaging to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. Depending on the complexity, Dr. Shlafer may recommend local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Accessing the Teeth: The gums are gently opened to expose the tooth and bone.
- Tooth Removal: The tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Closing the Site: The area is cleaned, and the gums are stitched to promote healing.
- Recovery Begins: You’ll be monitored and sent home with aftercare instructions for a smooth recovery.
Most patients recover within 3–5 days, although complete healing can take a couple of weeks.
Recovery after Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Healing from wisdom teeth removal is a gradual process, but with proper care, most patients bounce back quickly and comfortably. The first 24 to 72 hours are the most important for managing discomfort and preventing complications.
Here’s what you can expect during recovery:
- First Day: You’ll likely experience mild to moderate swelling, bleeding, and soreness. Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding and apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
- Pain Management: Dr. Shlafer may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or prescribe medication for added comfort. Take all medications as directed.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soup. Avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy foods that may irritate the extraction sites.
- Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean, but avoid brushing directly over the surgical areas for the first day. You can gently rinse with warm saltwater 24 hours after surgery to keep the area clean.
- Rest & Hydration: Get plenty of rest, elevate your head when lying down, and drink plenty of fluids—just avoid using a straw, which can dislodge blood clots and lead to dry socket.
What to Watch For:
While mild discomfort is normal, contact our Farmington Hills office if you notice:
- Persistent or worsening pain after several days
- Fever or chills
- Excessive bleeding
- Pus or foul odor coming from the extraction site
With guidance from Dr. Shlafer, your recovery can be smooth and worry-free. His team is available to answer questions throughout the healing process, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. If your wisdom teeth grow in fully, are properly aligned, and don’t affect your bite or surrounding teeth, you may not need to have them removed. However, many people’s mouths are too small to accommodate these extra molars, leading to crowding, impaction, or infection. Dr. Roman Shlafer will assess your case using digital X-rays and clinical exams to determine whether removal is the best course of action.
The initial healing period usually takes about 3 to 5 days, during which you may experience some swelling, soreness, and minor bleeding. Complete tissue healing may take a couple of weeks. Dr. Shlafer will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including what to eat, how to clean the surgical area, and signs to watch for during recovery. Following these guidelines can help you avoid complications like dry socket and promote faster healing.
The actual procedure is painless thanks to local anesthesia or sedation options, which keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout. After the surgery, it’s normal to feel some discomfort as the anesthetic wears off. Most patients find that over-the-counter pain medications and applying ice packs help reduce swelling and pain. If needed, Dr. Shlafer can prescribe stronger medication for added comfort.
The late teens to early twenties is generally the ideal window for removal. At this stage, the roots of the wisdom teeth are not fully formed, making extraction easier and recovery faster. Removing them early also helps prevent potential complications like cysts, infections, or damage to adjacent teeth. Dr. Shlafer regularly evaluates young adults in Farmington Hills, Novi, Livonia, and surrounding areas to determine the right timing for removal.
Trust Your Smile to Dr. Roman Shlafer in Farmington Hills
Wisdom teeth problems can sneak up on you—causing pain, swelling, and even long-term oral health issues. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just need an expert opinion, Dr. Roman Shlafer, the best dentist in Farmington Hills, MI, is here to help. With decades of experience, advanced technology, and a warm, welcoming team, you’ll receive the care you need with the comfort you deserve.
Serving Farmington Hills, Novi, Livonia, and nearby communities, Dr. Shlafer is proud to be the top dentist near you for wisdom teeth removal and comprehensive dental care. Don’t wait until pain forces your hand—take control of your oral health today by calling (248) 781-0040.
