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Expert wisdom teeth removal guidance from Central Park Dental & Orthodontics – Featured on NBC, ABC, FOX, CW, CBS & TEDx!

When it comes to wisdom teeth surgery, making informed decisions can mean the difference between a smooth recovery and unnecessary complications. As an award-winning dentist recognized in D Magazine’s Best Dentists (2021-2025), Dr. Jung’s treatment philosophy centers on preserving natural teeth whenever possible. Dr. Jung has guided thousands of patients through both wisdom teeth preservation and surgical procedures right here in Mansfield, Texas, and the surrounding communities of Arlington, Burleson, Alvarado, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, and Midlothian.

Located at 1101 Alexis Court #101 in Mansfield, Central Park Dental & Orthodontics has been serving the DFW metroplex with comprehensive dental care. Dr. Jung’s conservative approach prioritizes preserving wisdom teeth when they can be kept healthy and functional. Unlike many specialized oral surgery centers that may recommend removal as a first option, Dr. Jung provides thorough evaluation to determine if wisdom teeth can be successfully maintained, ensuring surgical intervention only when truly necessary for optimal oral health.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth: The Third Molars That Cause Big Problems

Wisdom teeth, scientifically known as third molars, typically emerge between ages 17-25. These late-arriving teeth often lack adequate space in modern human jaws, leading to various complications that necessitate surgical removal. In the Mansfield and Arlington areas, we see patients daily who experience pain, crowding, infection, and other issues related to problematic wisdom teeth.

The anatomy of wisdom teeth makes them particularly challenging to clean and maintain, even when they do emerge properly. Their location at the very back of the mouth creates hard-to-reach areas where bacteria accumulate, leading to decay and gum disease that can affect adjacent teeth.

The Top 5 Critical Considerations for Wisdom Teeth Surgery Success

1. Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Assessment and Timing

The foundation of successful wisdom teeth surgery lies in thorough evaluation and strategic timing. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, we utilize advanced 3D imaging technology to assess bone density, nerve proximity, tooth position, and root development before recommending surgery.

Key Assessment Factors:

Radiographic Analysis: Digital X-rays and CBCT scans reveal the exact position of wisdom teeth, their relationship to adjacent teeth, and proximity to vital structures like the inferior alveolar nerve. This detailed imaging helps predict surgical complexity and potential complications.

Bone Density Evaluation: Younger patients typically have less dense bone, making extraction easier with faster healing. However, waiting too long allows roots to fully develop and bone to harden, increasing surgical difficulty.

Impaction Classification: We classify impactions as soft tissue (partially erupted), partial bony (partially covered by bone), or complete bony impaction (fully covered by bone). Each type requires different surgical approaches and recovery timelines.

Orthodontic Considerations: For patients with crowded teeth or those who’ve completed orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth removal often prevents future crowding and maintains straight smiles.

Optimal Timing Strategy:

The key to successful wisdom teeth management lies in early evaluation and conservative treatment planning. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung believes in preserving natural teeth whenever possible. Dr. Jung’s approach involves monitoring wisdom teeth development closely and recommending removal only when preservation would compromise oral health.

When Wisdom Teeth Can Be Preserved:

• Adequate space for proper eruption
• Good positioning for effective cleaning
• Healthy surrounding gum tissue
• No crowding of adjacent teeth
• Patient’s ability to maintain proper oral hygiene

The ideal evaluation period typically falls between ages 16-22 years, allowing us to assess whether wisdom teeth can be successfully maintained long-term. However, timing isn’t just about age. We consider individual factors such as:

• Current oral hygiene capabilities
• Risk of future complications
• Space available in the jaw
• Impact on adjacent teeth
• Patient’s overall health status

Conservative vs. Surgical Approach:

At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, we take pride in our conservative treatment philosophy. Many patients in Mansfield and Arlington are surprised to learn that not all wisdom teeth require removal. Through careful evaluation and monitoring, we often help patients keep their wisdom teeth healthy and functional for life.

Benefits of Preserving Wisdom Teeth When Possible:

• Maintains natural chewing function
• Preserves jawbone structure
• Avoids surgical risks and recovery time
• Supports adjacent teeth
• Reduces treatment costs

However, when wisdom teeth cannot be preserved safely, removal becomes necessary to prevent: However, when wisdom teeth cannot be preserved safely, removal becomes necessary to prevent:

• Decay in hard-to-clean areas
• Gum disease and infection
• Crowding of previously straight teeth
• Cysts or other complications
• Damage to adjacent healthy teeth

When removal is recommended, we ensure patients understand why preservation isn’t possible and how surgical treatment will benefit their long-term oral health.

2. Surgeon Selection and Facility Standards

Choosing the right dental professional for wisdom teeth surgery significantly impacts your experience and outcomes. While oral surgeons specialize exclusively in surgical procedures, experienced general dentists with advanced surgical training can often provide excellent results with the added benefit of comprehensive dental care.

Qualifications to Evaluate:

Training and Experience: Look for dentists with extensive surgical experience and continuing education in oral surgery techniques. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, our surgical expertise is backed by years of successful procedures and ongoing professional development.

Technology and Equipment: Modern surgical facilities should feature:

• Digital imaging capabilities (CBCT scans)
• Advanced sterilization systems
• Emergency protocols and equipment
• Sedation monitoring systems
• Pain management technologies

Sedation Options: Different patients require different levels of sedation based on anxiety levels, surgical complexity, and medical history. Quality providers offer multiple options including:

• Local anesthesia only
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Oral sedation
• IV sedation
• General anesthesia (when necessary)

Facility Accreditation: Ensure your chosen facility maintains proper licensing, follows OSHA guidelines, and adheres to infection control protocols established by the CDC and ADA.

Communication and Care Philosophy:

Unlike large oral surgery centers that may treat patients as numbers, Central Park Dental & Orthodontics emphasizes personalized care and clear communication. We ensure patients understand their procedure, recovery expectations, and post-operative care requirements.

Comprehensive Care Advantage:

Choosing a full-service dental practice for wisdom teeth surgery offers unique benefits:

• Established patient relationship and medical history
• Coordinated treatment planning with other dental needs
• Streamlined insurance processing
• Convenient follow-up care
• Long-term monitoring of surgical sites

3. Surgical Technique and Approach Selection

The surgical technique employed during wisdom teeth removal dramatically affects both the procedure difficulty and recovery experience. Modern approaches prioritize minimally invasive techniques that preserve surrounding tissue and promote faster healing.

Surgical Approaches:

Simple Extraction: Used for fully erupted wisdom teeth with straightforward root anatomy. This approach involves loosening the tooth with specialized instruments and gentle removal.

Surgical Extraction: Required for impacted teeth, involving soft tissue incisions and sometimes bone removal to access the tooth. Advanced techniques minimize tissue trauma while ensuring complete tooth removal.

Sectioning Technique: For complex cases, teeth may be divided into sections for easier removal, reducing the need for extensive bone removal and decreasing post-operative discomfort.

Tissue Preservation Methods:

Minimally Invasive Incisions: Strategic incision placement preserves blood supply and reduces healing time. We use precise techniques that minimize tissue disruption while providing adequate surgical access.

Bone Conservation: Advanced surgical techniques preserve as much surrounding bone as possible, maintaining jaw structure and supporting adjacent teeth.

Socket Preservation: When appropriate, we may place bone grafting material in extraction sockets to preserve ridge height and width for potential future dental implants.

Pain Management Integration:

Pre-emptive Analgesia: Pain medications administered before surgery can significantly reduce post-operative discomfort by preventing pain pathway sensitization.

Long-Acting Local Anesthetics: Extended-duration anesthetics provide several hours of post-operative pain relief, often eliminating initial discomfort.

Anti-Inflammatory Protocols: Strategic use of anti-inflammatory medications reduces swelling and pain while promoting healing.

4. Anesthesia and Pain Management Protocols

Effective pain management begins before surgery and continues throughout the recovery period. A comprehensive approach addresses not only the surgical discomfort but also patient anxiety and post-operative healing.

Pre-Operative Pain Management:

Anxiety Reduction: Patient anxiety can amplify pain perception and complicate recovery. We offer various sedation options and take time to address patient concerns, creating a calm, comfortable environment.

Pre-emptive Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications taken before surgery can reduce post-operative swelling and pain intensity.

Nutritional Preparation: Proper nutrition before surgery supports healing and may reduce complications. We provide specific pre-operative dietary guidelines.

Intra-Operative Anesthesia Options:

Local Anesthesia: The foundation of pain-free surgery, properly administered local anesthetic ensures complete numbness during the procedure. We use the latest long-acting formulations for extended post-operative comfort.

Sedation Levels:

• Minimal Sedation (Nitrous Oxide): Helps patients relax while maintaining full consciousness and protective reflexes
• Moderate Sedation (Oral or IV): Provides deeper relaxation with maintained breathing and response to commands
• Deep Sedation: Reserved for complex cases or highly anxious patients, requiring advanced monitoring

Monitoring and Safety: Throughout any sedation procedure, we continuously monitor vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate.

Post-Operative Pain Control Strategy:

Multimodal Approach: Combining different types of pain medications provides superior pain relief with fewer side effects than relying on a single medication.

Scheduled Dosing: Taking pain medications on a schedule, rather than waiting for pain to return, maintains consistent comfort levels and prevents pain breakthrough.

Ice Therapy Protocol: Strategic ice application reduces swelling and provides natural pain relief during the first 48 hours post-surgery.

Activity Modification: Proper rest and activity restrictions support healing while preventing complications that could increase pain.

Long-Term Comfort Management:

Gradual Medication Reduction: As healing progresses, we provide guidance on safely reducing pain medications while maintaining comfort.

Alternative Pain Relief: Techniques such as warm saltwater rinses, soft diet maintenance, and stress reduction support natural healing and comfort.

Follow-Up Care: Regular post-operative appointments ensure proper healing and address any discomfort concerns promptly.

5. Recovery Planning and Complication Prevention

Successful wisdom teeth surgery recovery requires proactive planning, patient compliance, and professional monitoring. The recovery period typically spans 7-10 days for simple extractions and up to 2-3 weeks for complex surgical cases.

Immediate Post-Operative Care (First 24 Hours):

Bleeding Control: Initial bleeding is normal and controlled through gentle pressure with gauze pads. We provide specific instructions for managing persistent bleeding and when to contact our office.

Swelling Management: Ice application during the first 24-48 hours significantly reduces swelling. We recommend 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off cycles while awake.

Diet Restrictions: Cold, soft foods and plenty of fluids support healing while preventing surgical site irritation. We provide comprehensive dietary guidelines for each recovery phase.

Activity Limitations: Rest and limited physical activity for the first few days prevent bleeding complications and support natural healing processes.

Medication Compliance: Following prescribed medication schedules prevents pain breakthrough and reduces complication risk.

Week-Long Recovery Protocol:

Oral Hygiene Modifications: Gentle brushing around surgical sites and prescribed mouth rinses maintain cleanliness without disrupting healing tissue.

Progressive Diet Advancement: Gradual introduction of more solid foods as healing progresses, typically beginning with soft foods on day 3-4.

Work and School Planning: Most patients need 2-4 days off work or school, depending on job requirements and surgical complexity.

Exercise Restrictions: Avoiding strenuous exercise for one week prevents bleeding and swelling complications.

Complication Recognition and Prevention:

Dry Socket Prevention: This painful complication occurs when blood clots dislodge from extraction sites. Prevention strategies include:

• No smoking or tobacco use
• Avoiding straws and spitting
• Gentle oral hygiene
• Following activity restrictions

Infection Prevention: While rare with proper care, infections can occur. Warning signs include:

• Increasing pain after day 3
• Fever over 101°F
• Foul taste or odor
• Pus discharge

Nerve Injury Awareness: Temporary numbness in lips, tongue, or chin may occur but typically resolves within weeks to months.

Long-Term Healing Monitoring:

Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduled check-ups at 1 week and 1 month post-surgery ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

Ongoing Oral Health: Wisdom teeth removal often improves overall oral hygiene by eliminating hard-to-clean areas that trap bacteria.

Adjacent Tooth Health: Removing problematic wisdom teeth protects adjacent second molars from damage, decay, and gum disease.

Why Choose Central Park Dental & Orthodontics for Your Wisdom Teeth Surgery

As a comprehensive dental practice in Mansfield, Texas, we offer unique advantages over specialized oral surgery centers. Our integrated approach means your wisdom teeth surgery is part of your overall dental health plan, not an isolated procedure.

Our Competitive Advantages:

Established Patient Relationships: We know our patients’ medical histories, anxiety levels, and treatment preferences, allowing for personalized surgical planning and care.

Advanced Technology: Our facility features state-of-the-art equipment including 3D imaging, laser therapy, and modern sedation systems, rivaling any specialized surgical center.

Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation through long-term follow-up, we provide complete care without referrals to multiple providers.

Convenient Location: Easily accessible from Mansfield, Arlington, Burleson, Alvarado, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, and Midlothian, with ample parking and a comfortable facility.

Insurance Coordination: Our experienced team handles insurance pre-authorizations and claims processing, maximizing your benefits and minimizing out-of-pocket costs.

Emergency Availability: As your ongoing dental provider, we’re available for post-operative concerns and emergencies, not just during business hours.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Timely Wisdom Teeth Removal

Understanding the financial implications of wisdom teeth surgery helps patients make informed decisions about timing and treatment options.

Immediate Costs vs. Long-Term Savings:

Preventive Removal Costs:

• Simple extractions: Lower complexity, shorter procedures
• Reduced anesthesia requirements
• Faster recovery with less time off work
• Lower complication rates

Emergency Treatment Costs:

• Complex surgical procedures
• Potential hospital referrals
• Treatment of complications (infections, damage to adjacent teeth)
• Multiple appointments and extended recovery

Insurance Considerations:

Most dental insurance plans cover wisdom teeth removal when medically necessary. Our team works with patients to maximize insurance benefits and offers flexible payment options for any remaining balance.

Hidden Costs of Delaying Treatment:

• Damage to adjacent teeth requiring crowns or root canals
• Orthodontic retreatment due to crowding
• Periodontal treatment for gum disease
• Lost work days due to emergency situations

Advanced Techniques and Technology at Central Park Dental

Our commitment to excellence drives continuous investment in advanced surgical techniques and technology that improve patient outcomes and experiences.

3D Imaging and Surgical Planning:

Cone Beam CT scans provide detailed three-dimensional images of wisdom teeth, surrounding bone, and vital structures. This technology allows for:

• Precise surgical planning
• Reduced procedure time
• Lower complication rates
• Better patient communication through visual treatment plans

Minimally Invasive Surgical Protocols:

Our surgical approach emphasizes tissue preservation and trauma reduction through:

• Strategic incision placement
• Bone conservation techniques
• Advanced instrumentation
• Gentle tissue handling

Pain Management Innovation:

We employ the latest pain management protocols including:

• Long-acting local anesthetics
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cold therapy systems
• Relaxation techniques

Healing Enhancement:

Modern healing protocols support faster, more comfortable recovery:

• Laser therapy for tissue healing
• Nutritional guidance for optimal healing
• Stress reduction techniques

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Surgery

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Several signs indicate wisdom teeth removal may be necessary. Pain in the back of your mouth, swelling around the jaw, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath despite good oral hygiene, and crowding of other teeth are common indicators. However, not all wisdom teeth require removal. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung uses advanced 3D imaging to evaluate each tooth’s position, available space, and potential for future problems. Some wisdom teeth can remain if they have adequate space, proper positioning, and can be kept clean. Regular dental examinations allow Dr. Jung to monitor wisdom teeth development and recommend removal only when necessary.

What’s the difference between simple and surgical extraction?

Simple extractions involve teeth that have fully erupted and can be removed with dental forceps after loosening with specialized instruments. These procedures typically require only local anesthesia and have shorter recovery times. Surgical extractions are necessary for impacted teeth that haven’t fully emerged or are positioned at difficult angles. These procedures may require incisions in the gum tissue, bone removal, or tooth sectioning. While surgical extractions are more complex, modern techniques minimize trauma and discomfort. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung uses advanced surgical methods that often make the distinction between simple and surgical extractions less significant from the patient’s perspective.

How long does wisdom teeth surgery take?

The duration depends on the number of teeth being removed and their complexity. Simple extractions of fully erupted teeth may take 15-30 minutes per tooth. Impacted teeth requiring surgical removal typically take 30-60 minutes each. Removing all four wisdom teeth in one appointment usually takes 1-2 hours, including preparation and post-operative instructions. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung prioritizes efficiency without rushing, ensuring thorough, careful procedures. Dr. Jung also accounts for individual patient needs, such as sedation requirements and anxiety management, which may extend appointment times but improve overall patient comfort and outcomes.

What type of anesthesia is best for wisdom teeth removal?

Anesthesia choice depends on surgical complexity, patient anxiety, and personal preferences. Local anesthesia alone works well for simple extractions and patients comfortable with dental procedures. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) combined with local anesthesia helps anxious patients relax while remaining fully conscious. Oral sedation provides deeper relaxation for moderate anxiety or complex procedures. IV sedation offers the deepest level of conscious sedation for highly anxious patients or extensive surgical procedures. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung discusses all options during consultation, considering your comfort level, medical history, and procedure complexity to determine the most appropriate anesthesia approach for your specific situation.

What should I eat after wisdom teeth surgery?

Post-operative nutrition plays a crucial role in healing and comfort. Immediately after surgery, stick to cold liquids like water, milk, and fruit juices without pulp. Avoid straws for the first week to prevent dislodging blood clots. Day 2-3, introduce cold, soft foods such as yogurt, pudding, ice cream, smoothies, and protein shakes. Gradually add lukewarm soups, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and pasta. By week two, most patients can return to normal diets, avoiding very hard or crunchy foods that might irritate healing sites. Proper nutrition supports healing, so focus on protein-rich foods, vitamins, and adequate hydration. Dr. Jung’s team provides detailed dietary guidelines specific to your procedure and recovery progress.

How much pain should I expect after wisdom teeth surgery?

Pain levels vary based on surgical complexity, individual pain tolerance, and adherence to post-operative instructions. Most patients experience moderate discomfort for 2-4 days following surgery, with pain typically peaking 24-48 hours post-operatively. Simple extractions generally cause less discomfort than surgical removal of impacted teeth. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung uses advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive pain management protocols to minimize discomfort. Pre-emptive pain medication, long-acting local anesthetics, and anti-inflammatory medications significantly reduce post-operative pain. Most patients find prescribed medications provide adequate comfort, with pain gradually decreasing each day. Severe or increasing pain after day 3 may indicate complications and should be reported immediately.

When can I return to work or school after surgery?

Recovery timelines vary based on your job requirements, surgical complexity, and individual healing rates. Most patients with desk jobs or light physical activity can return to work 2-3 days after surgery. Jobs requiring physical labor or public speaking may require 4-7 days off. Students often return to classes within 2-4 days but may need additional time for important exams or presentations due to facial swelling or medication effects. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung provides personalized recovery timelines during your consultation. Factors Dr. Jung considers include the number of teeth removed, surgical complexity, your occupation, and personal healing history. Dr. Jung can provide work or school excuse notes when necessary and offers flexible scheduling for follow-up appointments.

What are the risks and complications of wisdom teeth surgery?

While wisdom teeth surgery is generally safe, understanding potential complications helps patients make informed decisions and recognize warning signs. Common, temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, stiffness, and mild bleeding. Dry socket occurs in 2-5% of cases when blood clots dislodge from extraction sites, causing significant pain that typically develops 3-5 days post-surgery. Nerve injury affecting lip, tongue, or chin sensation is rare but possible, usually temporary but occasionally permanent. Infection, though uncommon with proper care, can occur and requires antibiotic treatment. Damage to adjacent teeth or sinus complications are possible but rare with experienced surgeons. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung’s extensive experience and advanced techniques minimize complication risks while comprehensive follow-up care ensures prompt treatment of any issues.

How do I care for my mouth after wisdom teeth removal?

Proper post-operative care significantly impacts healing speed and comfort. For the first 24 hours, bite gently on gauze pads to control bleeding, change them as they become saturated, and avoid spitting or rinsing. Apply ice packs for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling. After 24 hours, begin gentle saltwater rinses 4-6 times daily, especially after meals. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding surgical sites for the first few days. Take prescribed medications as directed, don’t skip doses even if you feel good. Avoid smoking, alcohol, straws, and strenuous activity for at least one week. Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung provides detailed written instructions and is available for questions throughout your recovery.

Will removing wisdom teeth affect my other teeth or bite?

Wisdom teeth removal typically has positive effects on your remaining teeth and bite alignment. Removing problematic wisdom teeth often prevents crowding that can affect previously straight teeth, particularly in the lower front area. It also eliminates hard-to-clean areas where bacteria accumulate, improving overall oral health and protecting adjacent second molars from decay and gum disease. Some patients worry about jawbone strength after extractions, but the bone remodels naturally, and the areas where wisdom teeth were located don’t significantly impact chewing function. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics, Dr. Jung evaluates each case individually, particularly for patients who have had orthodontic treatment. Wisdom teeth removal often helps maintain orthodontic results and prevents the need for future retreatment due to crowding.

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?

Wisdom teeth removal costs vary based on several factors including the number of teeth removed, surgical complexity, anesthesia type, and geographic location. Simple extractions typically cost less than surgical removal of impacted teeth. Removing all four wisdom teeth ranges from moderate to higher costs depending on complexity. Most dental insurance plans cover wisdom teeth removal when medically necessary, often paying 70-80% of the procedure cost. At Central Park Dental & Orthodontics in Mansfield, Dr. Jung provides transparent pricing during consultation and works with your insurance to maximize benefits. Dr. Jung’s team offers flexible payment options and can provide pre-treatment estimates for budgeting purposes. Investing in timely wisdom teeth removal often prevents more expensive complications later, such as damage to adjacent teeth or orthodontic retreatment.

Take Action: Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation Today

Don’t wait for wisdom teeth problems to become emergencies. Early evaluation and timely treatment prevent complications, reduce costs, and ensure optimal outcomes. As a practice Featured on NBC, ABC, FOX, CW, CBS & TEDx and recognized as an Award-winning dentist in D Magazine’s Best Dentists (2021-2025), Central Park Dental & Orthodontics provides the expertise and comprehensive care you deserve.

Located conveniently in Mansfield at 1101 Alexis Court #101, we serve patients throughout the DFW metroplex, including Arlington, Burleson, Alvarado, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Kennedale, and Midlothian. Our state-of-the-art facility, experienced team, and patient-centered approach ensure your wisdom teeth surgery experience exceeds expectations.

Ready to take the next step? Call us today at 817-466-1200 to schedule your comprehensive wisdom teeth consultation. During your appointment, we’ll perform a thorough examination, discuss your options, answer all your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.

Prefer to schedule online? Visit our website to request an appointment at your convenience. Our friendly team will contact you promptly to confirm your preferred appointment time and provide any pre-visit instructions.

Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities. Join the thousands of satisfied patients who have trusted Central Park Dental & Orthodontics for their wisdom teeth surgery and comprehensive dental care needs. Experience the difference that award-winning, patient-centered dentistry makes in your oral health journey.

Call 817-466-1200 now or schedule your appointment online. Your future self will thank you for taking proactive steps toward optimal oral health and lasting comfort.