Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure that has historically been associated with the use of opioids for managing post-surgery discomfort. Dr. Brandon Baker is changing the game at Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery by offering opioid-free wisdom teeth extractions.
This innovative approach not only prioritizes your recovery but also minimizes the risks associated with opioid use.
Why Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery procedure performed to prevent or resolve issues such as pain, infection, crowding, pathology, and impaction. These third molars typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, and in many cases, the mouth does not have enough space to allow for proper eruption. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, swelling, and damage to surrounding molars. Removal of wisdom teeth is most often performed under IV sedation and ideally completed before pain or infection arise.
Here are a few signs that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed:
- Pain or discomfort at the back of your mouth.
- Swelling or redness in the gum area around wisdom teeth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully or chewing.
- Recurring infections or cysts in the affected area.
Addressing these issues early can prevent long-term damage to your oral health, including harm to adjacent teeth, gum disease, or cyst development.
The Risks of Opioid Use
For decades, opioids like hydrocodone or oxycodone have been prescribed to manage post-operative pain from wisdom teeth removal. While they are effective in dulling discomfort, opioids come with a host of risks, including:
- Risk for addiction and dependency even after short-term use.
- Overdose risks due to improper usage.
- Increased vulnerability to long-term substance abuse, especially for younger patients.
According to statistics from the CDC, opioid prescriptions for pain management have contributed to rising dependency rates in the U.S., with young adults being among the most affected groups.
For this reason, Dr. Baker has pivoted toward non-opioid pain management solutions.
Your Solution: Opioid-Free Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery, Dr. Brandon Baker has modernized the wisdom teeth removal process to eliminate the need for opioids. Here’s what makes this approach revolutionary and why it stands out for patients in North Texas.
1. Innovative Pain Management Techniques
Dr. Baker addresses pain management from multiple angles to ensure your experience is effective yet opioid-free. These solutions include:
- IV Sedation and Local Anesthesia are utilized on the day of the procedure to keep you comfortable.
- Long-lasting numbing agents are administered while you are asleep. This medication lasts 3 to 4 days, which coincides with the peak of swelling and discomfort. By decreasing your pain during this critical period, Dr. Baker is able to prevent the need for opioid medication.
- NSAIDs taken regularly in addition to the long-lasting numbing will be enough to control your pain.
2. Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Baker takes the time to understand your pain threshold, your concerns, and your medical history. By tailoring pain management to your specific needs, his team ensures a faster, safer recovery without the risks associated with opioids.
3. Advanced Surgical Techniques
Dr. Baker emphasizes minimal bone and tissue trauma during wisdom teeth extractions, reducing swelling, complications, and discomfort post-surgery. This results in a smoother recovery process overall.
If the lower wisdom teeth are located too close to a nerve in the jaw, a procedure called a coronectomy may be recommended. A coronectomy removes the crown of the tooth and leaves the roots safely in place. This procedure is performed when removal of the entire wisdom tooth poses a high risk of injury to the nerve in the lower jaw. After evaluation of your X-ray and a clinical examination, Dr. Baker will inform you if a coronectomy is recommended.
4. Safer Recovery for Every Patient
By eliminating the need for opioids, patients experience fewer side effects, less risk of dependency, and a quicker return to daily life. This approach is particularly beneficial for teenagers or young adults with heightened vulnerability to opioid dependency.
Why Choose Dr. Baker?
Regarding oral surgery procedures, Dr. Baker’s practice is a beacon of trust and excellence. He is not a rotating surgeon driving around to other offices, he is at this office 5 days a week to prioritize your care, whatever that may look like. Here’s why patients continue to choose Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery:
- Extensive Experience in oral surgery, from facial trauma and reconstruction to corrective jaw surgery and complex wisdom teeth extractions.
- Compassionate Care tailored to ease patient anxiety throughout the process.
- Commitment to Safety, prioritizing opioid-free recovery solutions to support both short-term and long-term well-being.
Whether you’re scheduling an extraction for yourself or a loved one, you can rest assured you’re in expert hands.
What to Expect During Your Opioid-Free Wisdom Teeth Removal
Understanding the process can help ease your anxiety. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect at Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery:
- Consultation and Planning: Dr. Baker will review your X-rays and develop a tailored surgical plan with you after reviewing your medical and surgical history.
- Surgery Day: The extraction is performed under IV sedation using local anesthesia and techniques to ensure minimal discomfort.
- Post-Op Care: You will receive detailed aftercare instructions, a prescription mouthrinse, and typically a prescription-strength NSAID for pain relief.
- Follow-Up: The team will ensure you’re healing as expected and address any questions at your follow up appointment.
The Future of Pain-Free Dentistry
Dr. Baker believes opioid-free wisdom teeth removal isn’t just a trend; he sees it as his responsibility to the community. His innovative approach reduces risk and empowers patients to take charge of their health and recovery.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal and are seeking a safer, opioid-free option, Dr. Baker and his team are ready to guide you through the process with expert care and attention.
Contact Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery today to schedule your consultation.