Wisdom Teeth Removal Doesn’t Have to Be Scary, Difficult, or Complex.
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Wisdom tooth extraction can be a scary and confusing ordeal. That’s exactly why we make your experience safe, fast, and hassle-free so that you can lose your wisdom teeth and gain excellent dental health.
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Value $499
Experience matters when you're choosing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Each of our doctors have years of experience and training, ensuring your experience in our office is positive and your end results are beautiful.
What You Can Expect
Can removing wisdom teeth straighten teeth?
Typically, no. However, teeth can be moved as wisdom develop and "push" on the other teeth. By removing the wisdom teeth, it can keep the remainder of the teeth from getting worse with crowding.
When do you need wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth may be extracted whether or not, they are causing discomfort. Typically, they should be evaluated by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon around the ages of 15-17, before the wisdom teeth cause irreversible damage.
What is wisdom teeth removal surgery?
If it is deemed necessary, wisdom teeth removal is a minor procedure that involves the removal of the teeth in a surgical office typically done while the patient is asleep (under anesthesia).
What his recovery like after wisdom teeth removal surgery?
With any surgical procedure, there is always some discomfort. By removing the teeth at an earlier age before the roots have a chance to completely grow it makes the recovery much easier. With any surgery, pain medications are given, should there be any need to alleviate discomfort.
Will removing my wisdom teeth change the shape of my face?
No. Initially there may be some facial swelling. After the post surgical inflammation has subsided, the face will return to its normal shape.
What are the benefits of removing my wisdom teeth?
Typically, there is no adequate space for wisdom teeth (third molars). This makes it impossible to keep the teeth clean causing infection, bone loss, damage to adjacent teeth, and potential crowding of other teeth (this is especially true after getting braces removed).
What are the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth?
This is the misconception regarding removal. The majority of people don’t have any issues until there is a big problem. This why an evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is so important. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, but an early evaluation after braces are taken off or at a young age, can avoid having future issues (or having to redo braces in the future).
How should I prepare for wisdom teeth removal?
Our surgeons and surgical staff will go over the entire process during your consultation. We will also answer any concerns and address what to expect for each individual.
Who is qualified to remove wisdom teeth?
Your teeth should be removed by a dental professional. While some dentists do remove wisdom teeth, keep in mind an oral and maxillofacial surgeon has an additional 4 to 6 years of training in the surgical part of dentistry. They are more qualified to handle complications, make the procedure less painful and are able to safely sedate the patient during the surgery.
Do I have to get my wisdom teeth removed?
It's usually safer to get the teeth removed before they cause problems. Teeth which are not growing in correctly, don’t have enough room, or clearly may cause issues, should be removed. The typical advice of just waiting until they bother you is unfortunate. Many difficult recoveries, complications, and damage could have easily been avoided had the wisdom teeth been removed at the proper time.
Where can you have your wisdom teeth removed near me?
Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery is conveniently located in Summerlin/Northwest Las Vegas and Henderson.
What are the symptoms of wisdom teeth growing in?
When you wait too long, it will start causing pain, bad breath, infection and damage to adjacent teeth and bone.
What should I expect after my wisdom teeth surgery?
Typically, there will some discomfort and swelling that peaks on the second or third day after surgery. This is usually handled easily with anti-inflammatories or stronger medications as needed.
Can I talk after getting my wisdom teeth out?
Absolutely. While it may cause some discomfort initially, there are no restrictions to speaking.
How do you know if your wisdom teeth should be removed?
Whether you are experiencing discomfort or not, it is advised to at least have an oral and maxillofacial surgeon evaluate to ascertain if there is, or will be a future problem. In some cases, there is no need for removal.
What are the disadvantages of removing wisdom teeth?
With each person the answer is different. This is why an evaluation is necessary. There are times where there can be complications as with any surgery (nerves, sinuses, tooth position, and health issues) that the surgeon will discuss and may not require removal. However, this will be communicated to your general dentist so they can monitor for possible problems.
Should I be asleep for my wisdom teeth surgery?
Most patients choose not to be aware of the procedure so they choose a sedation or general anesthesia to make it a pleasant experience. Again, this will be discussed allowing you to make a good decision. Keep in mind, Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery offices are surgical centers approved by The Joint Commission ( sets the standards by evaluating the practice to insure the safe and effective care, as used in hospitals).
Do you break your jaw to remove wisdom teeth?
Definitely not. Although as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, we repair fractured jaws which can happen in general dentistry offices.
Does wisdom teeth removal require stitches (sutures)?
You may require stitches after teeth are extracted. If indicated, we will use dissolving stitches so removal is not necessary.
How many people get their wisdom teeth removed?
Approximately 5 million people get their wisdom teeth extracted per year. Unfortunately, many wait until they have a problem, which can become more costly, affect the adjacent teeth and bone, many times requiring additional teeth to be removed.
How do your dentist know wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Most dentists will evaluate wisdom teeth on routine exams, however, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is much more adept in discussing issues you have now and what can happen in the future.
Should I remove my wisdom teeth if they don't hurt?
It's usually safer to get the teeth removed prior to developing pain and infection. Teeth which are functional and completely exposed seldom have to be extracted.
What happens on the day my wisdom teeth are removed?
At Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery, we will discuss in your consultation what to expect in your particular situation. Our goal is to make the entire process as easy as possible.
What are some tips to help recover from wisdom tooth surgery?
In the first few days, you may want to plan on staying home from work or school. While it is not unusual to return the following day, you will discuss with the surgeon what to expect based on your specific procedure. For the first few days plan eating softer foods. Applying ice to the side of the face for the first day or two will decrease discomfort and swelling.
How bad is getting your wisdom teeth taken out?
Most patients are very surprised at the easy recovery and the caring staff and doctors at Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery. Our goal is to treat you as would our families.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
During the procedure, most patients are comfortably and safely sleeping. The patient is also numbed while sleeping so afterwards there is no discomfort for several hours. This gives you a chance to get home, have something to eat and take some pain medication to make it an easy process.
What are wisdom teeth and why do you have them?
Most speculate that due to changes in diet and having smaller jaws, there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth and require removal.
How long does it take to remove a wisdom tooth?
You can expect to be in the office for about an hour for the actual procedure.
How long does it take for wisdom teeth removal to stop hurting?
Some patients have little to no pain. Some will have some discomfort lasting a few days. This will be discussed with you and your particular situation as what to expect and what type of pain medication may be best for you.
What happens if I don't get my wisdom teeth out?
Although not all people require wisdom teeth extractions, if it is not done, complications may arise. This can include damage to other teeth, possible crowding. Additionally, recovery is harder as you get older.
Does everyone need to get your wisdom teeth removed?
No, but just because you don’t have any symptoms doesn’t mean the teeth wont be an issue. By waiting, infection and often permanent damage can occur.
Does a surgeon have to extract your wisdom teeth?
Not always, but typically a surgeon will make the process much easier and with less complications. More importantly, if there are any complications the surgeon is adept at dealing with it. This also means less possible expenses should issues arise.
Will I say funny things after my wisdom teeth are removed?
At Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery, we use very short acting anesthetics when the patient is “asleep” during the procedure. This allows the patient to wake up very quickly and not feel as disoriented.
What should you not do before getting your wisdom teeth out?
Typically, we ask that you fast for six hours prior to the procedure. If possible, eliminate smoking the day of the procedure. All details will be discussed with you during your consultation.
Should I get all wisdom teeth removed at once?
If deemed necessary, it is typical to remove all the wisdom teeth at the same time to avoid future procedures and costs.
What are the possible risks of removing my wisdom teeth?
With any surgical procedure, there are risks. Wisdom teeth removal can cause infection, nerve damage, sinus issues, and to adjacent teeth. This is why going to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is beneficial.
What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are experts in the diagnoses and treatment of patients with wisdom teeth, implants, grafting, fractures, and abnormalities throughout the head and neck region.
When do most people get their wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth start developing around the age of 13. Typically, the evaluation takes place at the age of 15 to 17 when it is easiest to see if there could be a future problem.
Why do people say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
Not all wisdom teeth require removal. However, delaying the removal of teeth that are, or will lead to, problems will increase your recovery, expense and complications.
Are you too old to have your wisdom teeth removed?
While wisdom teeth extraction is best performed even before age of 25, it can be performed at any age.
How many days off do I need after my wisdom teeth surgery?
Typically, the day of the procedure and the following day, is adequate for most patients.
What happens if I never get my wisdom teeth out?
A tooth which fails to be extracted can result in the formation of tumors, damage other teeth and bone in the area, possibly crowd teeth, and cause infection (including bad breath).
How often should I go to the dentist?
This is something to discuss with your general dentist, but typically twice a year.
What does wisdom teeth surgery cost and will be covered by my insurance?
Your dental insurance may pay a portion of the expenses for the surgery. With all patients we always take the time to call your insurance company and verify any benefits you may have prior to any surgical procedure.
When do you need to arrive at the office prior to the appointment?
Typically most paperwork can be done online. This minimizes the amount of time in the office. Also, to make it more convenient most patients opt to have the virtual consult to allow us to discuss your procedure, insurance benefits, and any questions you may have in relation to your procedure.
What's the worst day after wisdom tooth removal?
Typically, the 2nd to 3rd day is always the worst day after any type of surgery. This is because the inflammation peaks on these days. Should there be any concern, obviously we are available to answer questions or concerns at any time.
What if I have questions before or after surgery?
If you have any questions related to the surgery, ask the surgeon before performing any operation. This is why we will go over your procedure and give you time to ask any questions. After the procedure we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week should concerns arise.
Is wisdom teeth surgery easy?
Most patients are surprised at how easy the process is. At Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery, we use our extensive experience along with techniques that minimizes the recovery and discomfort.
Will your other teeth be affected after your wisdom teeth are removed?
Typically removal of the wisdom teeth will make your other teeth healthier. It will also prevent future infections, damage to the other teeth, possible crowding, and alleviate bad breath.
What should you eat after wisdom teeth surgery?
We recommend softer foods after the procedure. It is important to maintain a good diet and hydration after any surgical procedure.
How much does it cost to remove wisdom teeth?
This can vary depending on insurance benefits (most will cover part, or all, of the procedure) and individual situations. That is why an exam is not only important to see if removal is necessary, but what your cost will be.
How many wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Most people have four wisdom teeth. During the evaluation it will be discussed how many you have, if they should, or should not, be removed. Every person is unique and that is why we will discuss your individual situation.
How long does it take to recover from my wisdom teeth surgery?
Most people are feeling relatively normal in a few days. Each individual is different, so we will discuss what to expect the in recovery process.
Can your family dentist remove wisdom teeth?
Some dentists will remove simple wisdom teeth. However, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon has advanced training and extensive experience that will allow for an easy procedure, recovery, and deal with any complications that may arise.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Brendan Johnson received his doctorate of dental surgery at the University of Pacific in San Francisco, California in 1994. He then began residency training at UCLA and the Sepulveda Veterans Medical Center. For the next four years his training continued at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis, Missouri, the University of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma Children's Hospital in 1999. He then moved to Las Vegas as co-founder of Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery with Dr. R. F. John Holtzen in 1999.
In addition to years of training at respected academic medical centers, Dr. Johnson is an associate professor at the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He is board certified in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery as well as anesthesia, and was recently appointed by Governor Brian Sandoval to the Nevada State Dental Board. He was also appointed to the Southern Nevada Peer Review Board, State Board of Dental Examiners (Anesthesia Evaluation Committee), and is the past President of the Southern Nevada Dental Society. He is an active member of the American Dental Association Political Action Committee and member of the legislative committee of the Nevada Dental Association. He has been voted by his peers as Las Vegas Review Journal's top oral and maxillofacial surgeon each consecutive year since 2007. Dr. Johnson is a fellow of the highly respected Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is honorary Squadron Commander at Nellis and Creech Air Force bases.
Dr. Johnson has become one of the leading surgeons in placing dental implants, especially using the "All on 4" implant supported bridge technique. He is often invited to lecture on the topic and is always on the leading edge of innovation. Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery is one of few offices in the country to be equipped with this fabulous experience and technology. The new state of the art equipment such as the cone beam iCat provides in-office CAT scans that precisely identify the anatomic structures associated with wisdom teeth. Also, the placement of dental implants can be an exact science with computer assisted "virtual surgery". The reconstruction of the face/facial skeleton can also be done with the same technology. The dynamic combination of Dr. Johnson's excellent academic standings and advanced technology, along with his outgoing and confident approach to patient care, immediately puts his patients at ease.
Dr. Johnson understands the anxiety many people experience when going to the doctor. That is why meticulous detail is paid to the entire patient experience. Dr. Johnson and his team believe that "when patients seek the expertise of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, they're seeking to transform their lives." When patients are seeking this level of specialization, they come to Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Hunter loves surgery! And he loves helping patients! Whether he is helping people who have lost teeth get dental implants to replace them or helping teenagers with their wisdom teeth, he is among the best at helping patients improve their lives. And he loves having fun while he does it! You might actually hear him try to sing during surgery. He’s not very good at singing but he likes to try. If you don’t want him to sing, ask him to play some music and you’ll be pals forever, especially if it’s classic rock. Dr. Hunter also enjoys any activity that is a threat to life or limb and lives by the creed, “You can’t die hardcore if you don’t live hardcore.” Ask him about what he does on the weekends and you’ll probably hear a good story. He also has lots of good tips if you want to have your own adventure.
Despite all the fun, he is serious about being the best in his field. He graduated at the top of his dental school class at the University of Louisville, trained at Indiana University Medical Center, and is always learning new techniques for his patients. He is currently a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and practices a full scope of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He is most passionate about full mouth reconstruction and, together with Drs. Johnson and Holtzen, have performed thousands of the All-on-Four dental implant surgery.
Dr. Hunter has served in many leadership positions in the community. He is currently the President of the Southern Nevada Dental Society, in a chair position for the Nevada Dental Association, and has lectured at both UNLV School of Dental Medicine and Roseman University. Not only does he want to be the best, he wants others to be their best!
Whatever your needs, Dr. Hunter is excited to discuss them with you and give you his best care. He looks forward to meeting you soon.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. R. F. John Holtzen co-founded Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery with Dr. Brendan Johnson in 1999. Over the years his practice has grown to become the state’s premier Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery group. Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery is founded upon principles of excellence, offering the most technically advanced maxillofacial and oral surgical care possible.
Dr. Holtzen is a native of Northern California. He grew up in the small town of Healdsburg and is a graduate of California State University, Chico. In 1994 he graduated in the top of his class from Temple University School of Dentistry with his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. He then completed a surgical internship at the Johns Hopkins University Hospital and then later a surgical residency at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center and MCP-Hahnemann University Hospitals. Presently, Dr. Holtzen is Board Certified by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and also by the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology.
Dedication to ongoing professional development through continuing education and the acquisition of new technologies is the core of Dr. Holtzen’s practice. Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery is in the forefront of utilizing computerized skeletal and facial analysis through computer aided design, “virtual surgery”, and in-office cone beam CAT scan technology. Very few offices in Southern Nevada offer this cutting edge technology, allowing surgeons precision in the placement of implants and other surgical procedures. Dr. Holtzen is among the most experienced surgeons in the world at using these technologies in his specialty.
Service to the community is of paramount importance to Dr. Holtzen and as such he has served as associate professor at the University of Nevada School Of Medicine, and at the University of Southern Nevada. He has served as a delegate to the Southern Nevada Dental Society. He has been voted by his peers as Las Vegas Review Journal’s Top Dentist each consecutive year since 2007. Dr. Holtzen has lectured extensively on topics related to his expertise including orthognathic surgery, dental implants, emergency medicine, and others. He has also taken trauma calls at local hospitals throughout his career.
Although Dr. Holtzen is passionate about utilizing his skills to change the lives of his patients, he also hopes to be known for the application of his strong personal beliefs in the context of his profession. Dr. Holtzen strives to make his professional and personal life a reflection of his Christian faith. He works to have his caring service to his patients, and the mission of his business, all be a representation of this conviction.
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