Wisdom Teeth Removal
Having wisdom teeth removed is a very common part of growing up for many teens and young adults. It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about the idea of surgery, but we are here to make the experience feel as easy as possible. And after treatment, we focus on helping you get back to your normal routine quickly.
Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth usually start to come in between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, there simply isn’t enough room in their mouth for these extra teeth. This can cause them to become “impacted,” or stuck beneath the gum. We recommend keeping an eye out for these common signs:
- Pain or swelling: You might feel pressure or tenderness in the back of your jaw
- Infection: Redness or inflammation around the gums
- Crowding: Feeling like your other teeth are being pushed or shifted
- Decay: Cavities forming on the wisdom teeth or the molars next to them because they are hard to reach and clean
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Often Removed
We often suggest removing wisdom teeth sooner rather than later. When you are younger, the roots of your teeth haven’t fully formed, and the bone surrounding them is softer. This makes the extraction process easier and less complicated. Taking care of them early often means:
- Smoother Recovery: Younger patients typically heal faster with less discomfort
- Preventing Damage: You avoid potential damage to nearby healthy teeth
- Better Oral Health: You lower the risk of future infections, cysts, or gum disease
Our Approach to Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Your safety and comfort are what matter most to us. Our experienced oral surgeon performs these procedures with a gentle touch and a focus on efficiency. We use leading-edge imaging technology to plan your surgery perfectly before we begin.
To help combat any dental anxiety, we offer sedation options to help you feel completely at ease. Whether you prefer to be asleep or just drowsy, we will customize a plan that feels right for you.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure
We want you to know exactly what to expect, so there are no surprises.
- Consultation & Imaging: We start by taking detailed 3D images to see the exact position of your teeth and roots
- Sedation: On the day of your procedure, we’ll make sure you are comfortable and relaxed with your chosen sedation method
- The Procedure: Our skilled surgeon will carefully remove the wisdom teeth, prioritizing gentle techniques
- Recovery: You will rest in our recovery room until you are ready to go home. We’ll make sure you and your driver have all the instructions you need for a smooth recovery at home
Schedule a Consultation
Your first visit is a chance for us to listen to your concerns and goals. We’ll take the time to explain your options and create a personalized care plan tailored to you. You can feel confident knowing our team is experienced in advanced bone grafting techniques that are designed for successful, long-lasting results. We’re here to provide expert care you can trust.
Common Questions
Looking for answers to your wisdom tooth extraction questions? Start here:
We will give you specific instructions during your consultation, but generally, you will need to stop eating and drinking for a few hours before surgery if you are being sedated. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment (short sleeves are best). Also, make sure you have a parent or friend ready to drive you home and stay with you for a while to help set up your recovery for success.
Most teens and young adults recover quite quickly, usually within 3 to 5 days. You can expect some swelling and mild discomfort, which is normal. We will provide you with everything you need to manage this. It’s important to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting to let your body heal properly.
For the first few days, stick to soft foods and liquids. Think smoothies (without straws), yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and applesauce. Avoid anything crunchy, spicy, or hot, as these can irritate the healing areas. We’ll give you a full list of “do’s and don’ts” to take home with you.