Services

Wisdom Teeth


What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom Teeth are the last of the three sets of molars to develop in the jaw.  In many cases they do not erupt until the late teens or early twenties. Most patients will not know whether or not they have them without an x-ray or until symptoms arise.

When teeth fail to “erupt”, or begin to come into the mouth, they are called impacted teeth. They can be impacted completely or partially under the jawbone, or they can just be covered in gum tissue.

Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Oral Surgeons remove wisdom teeth to treat or prevent infection, pain, periodontal disease, crowding, damage to adjacent teeth, or associated cysts and tumors. They are much easier to remove, and have a lower rate of complications, when patients are in their teens and early twenties. Younger patients tend to heal better and faster as well.  For this reason, if it appears your wisdom teeth may have problems in the future, it is recommended to remove them while the risk of problems and complications is still low. This will be evaluated with a radiograph and discussed during a consultation with your surgeon.

What Will Wisdom Teeth Extraction Surgery Be Like?

Surgery typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes.  Your entire visit will usually be less than an hour and a half.  We designed our state of the art facility to make your visit safe and comfortable.  Be sure to review the instructions prior to anesthesia if you plan to be sedated.  We will review all of the post-operative instructions with you and your ride before you leave the office as well as give you a copy to take home.  You can also find them here.

How Can I Prevent Complications?

Complications after wisdom tooth removal are rare.  Although rare, the most common complications of wisdom tooth surgery are infection and dry socket.   Because infections are rare, routine antibiotics can cause more complications than they prevent. They also lead to the development of resistant bacteria. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery does not recommend routine antibiotics for wisdom teeth.  Click here to find tips on dry socket prevention.

What Will Recovery Be Like?

When it comes to recovery, everyone is different.  Recovery time varies based on age, difficulty of surgery, and how your body responds.  Younger patients will typically recover faster than an older patient.  Impacted wisdom teeth will take longer to recover from than erupted wisdom teeth.  Most people will want to have at least a couple of days off of work or school to recover before returning to normal activities. You may still have mild swelling up to a week after surgery.

Post-Operative Instructions After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Oral surgical care in a safe, warm, and caring environment!

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5 of 5 stars of 167

I had a great experience at Archway. I went there to get four wisdom teeth removed. The office was clean. The staff was nice and efficient. Dr. Loveless was warm and the Spotify music was a nice touch. The procedure went through with no problems and I didn’t feel a thing. I received a post op call and great instructions. Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations after you hear all the horror stories regarding wisdom teeth removal.

5 of 5 stars of 167

“You are an awesome doctor! Also, your assistants were great and made everything so much easier. Thank you for being such a caring doctor.”

5 of 5 stars of 167

Dr. Loveless,

Thank you for making my tooth extraction so quick and easy. I was expecting a lot of pain. Haven’t experienced any residual pain, either since I woke up the following morning. You should hang a shingle stating “painless Dentist”!! Also, your staff is so kind and attentive. I would definitely come back when needed, and recommend you to anyone in need. Though I don’t wish that pre-surgery pain on any person (or animal) for that matter!

 

5 of 5 stars of 167

Dr. Loveless is amazing. I will continue to use and refer people to him.

5 of 5 stars of 167

Best oral surgery place! Everyone is so friendly & caring! They did a great job of making sure I was comfortable & the surgeon did an excellent job-they even gave me some Ted Drewes to bring home!

Deb M.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 167

My experience with the ladies and Doctor Loveless was great. I had never been put under by anesthesia before and they made me comfortable and very relaxed. They took care of me from the beginning consultation to leaving minus 4 teeth. Thankfully Dr. Loveless is a younger man so he will hopefully be around to treat my children with the same care, someday.

5 of 5 stars of 167

I went to get my wisdom teeth removed a few days ago & i could not wait to leave a review. My experience was absolutely PHENOMENAL. I wish i could give them more stars. Everyone at the facility was nice, accommodating and very professional. The procedure was done very quickly and they even gave me Ted Drew’s afterwards! My recovery has been unbelievably easy & fast. I had all 4 wisdom teeth extracted and there was very little swelling. I’ve barely had to take any pain medication and i was even able to eat the next day! I’m convinced they are magicians because the entire experience was just so great it seemed unreal! I never leave reviews but I just had to after receiving such amazing treatment. They definitely live up to the reviews!

Keyonna H.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 167

We were headed to Florida when my son came down with an abscessed tooth. Dr. Loveless was able to get us in and remove his tooth before our flight. I can’t thank Laurie enough for making what could be a scary experience for my 7 year old, a fun, pleasant one. I can’t express how thankful I am for her treating him like her own and making sure he was comfortable. She went above and beyond in my eyes and made this nervous mom rest a little easier. Thank you both!!!

5 of 5 stars of 167

This surgeon is great. ALL his staff is outstanding. Had implant done, basically painless, very interesting procedure. Assistant /hygienist (practically doctor) Emily was great. Highly recommend this office.

Larry C.
Happy Patient

5 of 5 stars of 167

Dr. Loveless did an amazing job. I needed a wisdom tooth extracted that had a large cavity. He got it out whole in less than 1 minute. He is great. His staff is wonderful too. My whole experience was great. I will refer anyone that needs an oral surgeon!

Pamela W.
Happy Patient

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St. Louis Office

Washington Office

St. Louis Office

Office: (314) 328-5995

Address:
16 Hampton Village

Plaza Suite #200

St. Louis, MO 63109

Washington Office

Office: (636)-239-5959

Fax: (314) 328-5996

Address:
551 E 5th Street

Washington, MO 63090

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