Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Chicago, IL

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Often Removed

Most patients don’t have enough space in their jaws to accommodate four additional molars, which can lead to a variety of problems. Common reasons for wisdom tooth removal include:

• Impaction: When teeth become trapped beneath the gums or jawbone
• Crowding: Pushing against neighboring teeth and altering alignment
• Infection or Inflammation: Caused by partially erupted teeth that trap bacteria
• Cysts or Jaw Damage: Formation of fluid-filled sacs around impacted teeth
• Decay or Gum Disease: Difficult-to-clean areas at the back of the mouth

Removing problematic wisdom teeth early can help prevent pain, swelling, and costly restorative treatment later.

Our Approach to Wisdom Teeth Extraction

At Ramy Bahu, DDS, we take a personalized and conservative approach to every wisdom teeth extraction. We begin with a detailed exam and digital imaging to assess the position and condition of your teeth and surrounding structures.

The procedure generally involves:

1. Assessment and Planning: We use digital X-rays to evaluate whether the teeth are impacted and plan the safest removal method.
2. Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed completely to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.
3. Extraction: Depending on whether the teeth are erupted or impacted, we perform a simple or surgical extraction using advanced precision techniques.
4. Cleaning and Suturing: Once the teeth are removed, the area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed to aid healing.
5. Post-Operative Guidance: We provide detailed home care instructions to promote fast recovery and minimize discomfort.

Our goal is to ensure your experience is efficient, gentle, and supportive from start to finish.

What to Expect After Surgery

Following your wisdom tooth removal, it’s normal to experience mild soreness and swelling. We’ll provide aftercare instructions tailored to your needs. Common recommendations include:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours
• Use ice packs to manage swelling
• Eat soft foods and stay hydrated
• Avoid using straws, smoking, or spitting for several days to prevent dry socket
• Maintain oral hygiene with gentle rinsing after the first day

Most patients recover within a few days, and normal eating and activities can usually resume within a week.

When to Remove Wisdom Teeth

The ideal time to remove wisdom teeth is typically during the late teens or early twenties, when roots are not yet fully developed. However, extractions can be performed at any age if symptoms occur. We may recommend early removal if:

• Teeth are growing at an angle or toward other molars
• X-rays show impaction beneath the gums
• You experience jaw pain, swelling, or recurrent infection
• Orthodontic treatment could be compromised

If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to long-term dental crowding or structural damage to neighboring teeth.

Meet Your Dentist

Dr. Ramy Bahu, D.D.S. has over three decades of experience providing surgical and restorative dental care. Known for his steady, compassionate approach, he ensures that each wisdom teeth extraction is performed with exceptional precision and attention to patient comfort. His use of advanced techniques and technology allows for smooth, predictable results and efficient healing.

Related Services

Wisdom tooth extraction is often part of a broader plan to preserve your dental health. You may also benefit from:

• Tooth Extractions – For other damaged or problematic teeth
• Bone Grafting – To preserve jawbone strength following extraction
• Dental Cleanings & Exams – For ongoing oral maintenance and prevention
• Dental Implants – For restoring missing teeth with permanent, natural-looking results

Our team coordinates care to ensure every aspect of your oral health is protected before, during, and after treatment.