Wisdom Teeth Removal in Minneapolis, MN: Do You Need a Referral for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
If you’re a parent of a teen in Minnesota, chances are your dentist has already mentioned wisdom teeth. These late-blooming third molars often appear in your teens or early 20s. They can cause pain, swelling, or crowding in your smile. That’s why many students in Excelsior, Minnetonka, and across the Twin Cities end up needing them removed.
But here’s the big question: Do you need a referral first?
- Some oral surgery clinics require a referral from your dentist.
- Others, like Facial Designs P.A., also welcome patients directly.
Either way, Dr. Roderick VanSurksum and our team make the process simple, comfortable, and stress-free.
What’s a Referral Anyway?
A referral is when your dentist refers you to a specialist (such as Dr. Roderick VanSurksum) for advanced care. Sometimes insurance companies require it to cover the procedure. Other times, it’s just a way for your dentist and oral surgeon to share your dental history.
4 Signs It’s Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth
Are your or your teen’s wisdom teeth causing trouble? A person will often notice:
- Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
- Red, swollen gums that feel sore or tender
- Jaw stiffness that makes chewing or talking harder
- Sinus pressure linked to impacted wisdom teeth
If you have any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Roderick VanSurksum. Early treatment can prevent more serious problems, such as infections or damage to nearby teeth.
Why Choose an Oral Surgeon Over a Dentist?
Think of your general dentist as your primary dental care provider, much like your family physician is your primary medical provider. They are excellent at preventive care, cleanings, fillings, and maintaining your everyday oral health. When a procedure requires advanced surgical expertise, however, your dentist may refer you to a specialist.
When it comes to wisdom tooth removal, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons like Dr. Roderick VanSurksum are the experts. With advanced surgical training, specialized techniques, and decades of experience, Dr. VanSurksum performs wisdom tooth extractions safely, efficiently, and with exceptional precision.
Beyond surgical expertise, patient comfort and safety are a top priority. Most patients do very well with local anesthesia, but as a Category 1 sedation facility, we also offer monitored sedation options when needed. Wisdom teeth are removed in an environment specifically designed for comfort, safety, and peace of mind, so patients can feel confident every step of the way.
Healing Faster with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
Recovery is a major concern for teens who don’t want to miss school, sports, or social activities. That’s why we offer Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) to support natural healing. A small sample of your own blood is used to create PRF, which concentrates natural growth factors.
When applied to the surgical site, PRF helps:
- Accelerate gum and soft tissue repair
- Reduce swelling and discomfort
- Lower the risk of infection or blood clots
- Keep dry sockets from happening
- Promote stronger, healthier healing
Because PRF is natural and patient-derived, it’s safe and effective. Many teens appreciate that it shortens recovery time and helps them return to normal routines more quickly.
Why Use School Breaks for Wisdom Teeth Removal
We know teens have busy schedules with classes, sports, and activities. That’s why many families plan wisdom teeth removal during school breaks:
- Winter break – recover while classes are out
- Spring break – short downtime, back to school refreshed
- Summer break – the most popular time, with plenty of recovery days built in
Scheduling during breaks means you won’t miss school, practices, or exams, and you’ll have time to rest and heal comfortably at home.
How to Get a Referral (If You Need One)
If your insurance requires a referral, the process is simple:
- Talk to your dentist about pain or swelling
- Check your insurance policy for referral rules
- Ask your dentist to connect you with Dr. Roderick VanSurksum or call us directly at 952-935-8420
Our experienced staff interprets insurance policies and answers your coverage questions.
Why Parents Trust Dr. Roderick VanSurksum in the Twin Cities Metro
At Facial Designs P.A., we treat every patient like family. Teens and parents appreciate:
- Compassionate care that eases nerves before surgery
- Board-certified expertise
- Up-to-date techniques for faster recovery
- Friendly staff who help with insurance questions
From the first phone call to the final follow-up, our staff is here to guide you through the process. You do not need a referral to visit us. You will find a friendly environment. Our team is dedicated to making your wisdom tooth removal as easy as possible.
Serving individuals and families from Excelsior, Minnetonka, Minneapolis, the greater Twin Cities area, and surrounding Minnesota communities. We make wisdom teeth removal easy and stress-free, with appointments available in as little as two weeks.
Ready to take care of your wisdom teeth? Contact Dr. Roderick VanSurksum today to schedule your wisdom teeth removal.
