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Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the local urgent care facility.

Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the urgent care facility.

Wisdom Teeth Removal in O’Fallon, MO

Wisdom teeth usually develop during the teen years and early adulthood. Some erupt normally. Others remain partly or fully trapped beneath the gums or jawbone, grow at an angle, or crowd the teeth in front of them.
Dr. Maryann L. Udy evaluates the position and development of the wisdom teeth with an examination and imaging. Our experienced team explains the findings, anesthesia plan, procedure, and recovery in clear terms and takes time to answer questions.
Senior woman receiving care during a wisdom tooth removal procedure

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Evaluated?

Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to develop, and there is not always enough room for them to enter a healthy position. An impacted tooth can remain beneath bone, press toward a neighboring molar, or break through the gum only partially.
Pain is not the only reason to request an evaluation. Partially erupted teeth can be difficult to clean, and some impacted teeth can affect the surrounding gum tissue or the molar beside them. Imaging helps Dr. Udy determine whether monitoring or removal is the better course.

What Happens During a Wisdom Teeth Consultation?

Dr. Udy reviews how many wisdom teeth are present, their stage of development, and their relationship to nearby teeth, bone, and other anatomy. The consultation also covers current medications, allergies, medical conditions, prior anesthesia experiences, and any symptoms you have noticed.

If removal is recommended, our team explains the expected surgical approach and the anesthesia options appropriate for your treatment. When IV anesthesia is planned, follow the fasting, transportation, and medication instructions exactly as provided.

Planning Wisdom Teeth Removal Around School or Work

Families often schedule treatment around school, work, athletics, travel, or caregiving. Try to leave some flexibility in the schedule, since the number and position of the teeth, anesthesia, swelling, nutrition, medication use, and individual healing can all affect when a patient feels ready to resume normal activities.

Arrange transportation and an adult support person when required. Before surgery, fill prescribed medications, purchase appropriate foods, and review the postoperative instructions. Avoid scheduling a major exam, competition, flight, or other hard-to-change commitment immediately after treatment.

Recovery Guidance From a Familiar Surgical Team

Swelling, soreness, bruising, and temporary changes in eating can occur after wisdom tooth removal. Our office provides procedure-specific instructions for hygiene, diet, medication, and activity rather than relying on a generic recovery timeline.

Follow the written directions you receive and call our office whenever you have questions or are unsure about your symptoms. Our long-tenured team is available before and after surgery, so you can speak with staff members who know our process and your next step.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are often evaluated during the teen years or early adulthood, especially when a dentist or orthodontist sees limited space or impaction. The right timing is based on development and individual findings.
No. Dr. Udy uses the examination and imaging to explain whether removal or continued monitoring is appropriate.
Often, but the recommendation is based on which teeth are present, their position, your health history, and the surgical plan.
The options depend on the planned procedure and your medical history. Dr. Udy will discuss the recommended approach and any preparation requirements.
There is no universal return date. Our team will give guidance based on your procedure, but leave flexibility until you know how you are healing.

Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation

Call Northwest Oral Surgeons at 636-978-6967 to schedule a consultation or ask which records are needed before your visit.