Removing wisdom teeth, improving your oral health
Roam Dental in Shelby Township performs wisdom teeth removal using CBCT 3D imaging to map the exact position of roots relative to the inferior alveolar nerve — minimizing risk and ensuring a safer, more predictable surgery. Dr. Virgil Barbu offers local anesthesia and sedation options for patient comfort. Most patients from Shelby Township, Utica, Sterling Heights, and across Macomb County choose in-house extraction rather than a specialist referral, for continuity of care and faster scheduling. Schedule a wisdom tooth evaluation or call (586) 500-7647.
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of your mouth, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth can be useful for chewing and grinding food, they can also cause problems if they do not have enough space to grow properly. Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is often recommended to prevent potential issues.
The procedure of wisdom teeth removal involves a minor surgical process to extract the teeth. The process is typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist, depending on the complexity of the case. Before the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the dentist will administer laughing gas sedation or general anesthesia to put the patient to sleep during the procedure.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth and the bone. The teeth are then gently loosened and removed from the sockets. After the extraction is complete, the dentist will place stitches in the gums to promote healing.It is common to experience some pain and swelling following wisdom teeth removal. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort and prevent infection. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and quick recovery.
Wisdom teeth removal is a routine dental procedure that involves the extraction of one or more wisdom teeth, the final set of molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. This procedure is often recommended to prevent potential oral health problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and overcrowding, that can occur when the wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow properly.
Expect Xrays
Before the procedure, the dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of the teeth and gums, and may take X-rays to determine the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. Based on the findings, the dentist will then recommend the best course of action, which may include removal of one or more wisdom teeth.
Expect Anesthesia
During the procedure, the patient will be given anesthesia to ensure comfort and minimize pain. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient’s preference and the complexity of the case. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area around the wisdom teeth, while laughing gas or general anesthesia may be recommended for patients who prefer to be sedated or asleep during the procedure.
Expect Extraction
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth and the bone. The teeth are then gently loosened and removed from the sockets using specialized instruments. After the extraction is complete, the dentist will place stitches in the gums to promote healing.
More Questions about Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any question you have about wisdom teeth removal and address any issues unique to your specific situation. We look forward to seeing you.
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth might need to be removed. Here are some of the most common reasons:
If you experience any of these symptoms or signs, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our Shelby Township dentist to determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth do not have enough space to grow properly and become stuck or partially emerged in the gum tissue or jawbone. Here is an overview of the symptoms and treatment options for impacted wisdom teeth:
Symptoms:
Treatment:
More Questions about Impacted Wisdom teeth?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any questions you have about impacted wisdom teeth extraction.
Pericoronitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, most commonly the wisdom teeth. It occurs when bacteria and debris get trapped under the gum flap covering the tooth, leading to infection and swelling. Here is an overview of how pericoronitis is treated:
Symptoms:
Treatment:
Call us at Roam Dental if you are experiencing symptoms of pericoronitis. You may need treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and causing further complications.
Preparing for a wisdom teeth removal procedure can help ensure a smooth and successful surgery and recovery. Here are some tips on how to prepare:
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for your wisdom teeth removal procedure and set yourself up for a successful recovery. Schedule a consult with our dentist to determine if a wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.
Removing impacted wisdom teeth eliminates the pressure they place on neighboring teeth, preventing crowding and alignment problems that can affect your bite.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, and pressure. Extraction provides immediate relief and prevents the pain from returning.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create openings where bacteria thrive. Removal eliminates the site of recurring infections and reduces the risk of abscess formation.
For anxious patients or complex cases, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire procedure.
your dentist uses 3D cone beam imaging to map exact tooth and root positions before surgery, resulting in a safer, more predictable procedure and faster healing.
Wisdom Teeth Removal is a good fit if you are:
This may not be the right option if:
Here is exactly what happens at your appointment at Roam Dental. Knowing each step makes the experience far less intimidating — and lets you relax knowing what comes next.
These are the questions patients at Roam Dental ask most often before committing to treatment. Dr. Barbu addresses each one honestly at your consultation.
"Do wisdom teeth always need to come out?"
No. If they erupt fully, are functional, and don't damage neighbors, Dr. Barbu often leaves them in place. Removal is recommended when they're impacted, crowding, causing infection, or at high risk of problems.
"Won't the surgery be painful?"
Local anesthesia and optional sedation keep you comfortable during the procedure. Post-op soreness is typical for 3–5 days and is managed with pain medication and ice.
"What are the risks with the nerve?"
Nerve injury is the most concerning risk for lower wisdom teeth. Dr. Barbu uses CBCT imaging to map the exact nerve position before surgery, dramatically reducing this risk.
Every procedure has tradeoffs, and transparent conversation about them is part of informed consent. Dr. Barbu reviews these at your consultation and answers every question before treatment begins.
Wisdom teeth do not always need to come out. If they erupt fully, maintain good hygiene, and do not damage neighboring teeth, they are often left alone. But if they are impacted, causing infection, or crowding other teeth, removal is usually the right call — and earlier is easier than later.
CBCT imaging is essential for wisdom tooth extraction. It shows the exact position of the roots in relation to the inferior alveolar nerve — which runs just below the lower wisdom teeth. Seeing that in 3D before surgery allows a safer, cleaner extraction.
Reviewed by Dr. Virgil Barbu, DDS · Roam Dental, Shelby Township, MI
No, wisdom teeth cannot grow back once they are removed. The tooth roots are completely extracted, so there is no way for the teeth to regrow.
It is possible to remove all four wisdom teeth at once, but the number of teeth removed at once depends on the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the case, and the dentist’s recommendation.
The procedure itself is typically painless due to the use of anesthesia. However, some discomfort and swelling are common following the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort.
It is recommended to wait a few hours after the procedure before eating or drinking anything. Soft, cold foods like yogurt, applesauce, and ice cream are typically recommended during the first few days of recovery.
Yes. At our Shelby Township dental office we offer wisdom teeth removal to patients from Shelby Township and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Extractions are performed under local anesthesia with optional sedation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-procedure soreness is managed with pain medication and cold compresses, typically resolving within 5–7 days.
Most patients return to normal activities within 3–5 days. Soft foods are recommended for the first few days, and strenuous activity should be avoided for a week to prevent dry socket.
Possible risks include dry socket, infection, nerve injury (for lower wisdom teeth), sinus involvement (for upper wisdom teeth), and prolonged swelling. CBCT planning and careful surgical technique minimize these risks.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wisdom tooth extraction carries risks including dry socket, infection, nerve injury (particularly for impacted lower wisdom teeth), sinus complications (upper), and prolonged swelling. CBCT planning reduces these risks substantially. Consult Dr. Virgil Barbu or a qualified dental professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual results may vary.
Contact our office to discuss how this treatment can help you achieve your dental health goals.