Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your wisdom teeth are impacted or have the potential to crowd your teeth, you’ll likely need to have them removed sooner than later. Not only can they cause tender gums, swelling and pain, but partially or fully erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean—and that could lead to other oral health problems such as tooth decay, infections and gum disease.
So what’s the next step?
- First, we’ll take a panoramic x-ray to diagnose if your wisdom teeth should be removed.
- Next, your dentist will talk with you about the extraction process and schedule the removal as soon as possible.
We can help manage your dental anxiety with conscious sedation methods and nitrous oxide gas.
How do I know when to remove my wisdom teeth?
According to the American Dental Association, wisdom teeth removal may be necessary if you experience changes in the area of those teeth, such as:
- Pain
- Gum disease
- Repeated infection
- Soft tissue behind the lower last tooth
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Crowding of teeth or not enough space in the mouth
There are times when Wisdom teeth may not need to be removed. Examples of when you do not remove wisdom teeth are:
- Teeth are healthy
- Grown in completely
- Positioned does not impact proper biting issues
- Can to be cleaned during daily hygiene
Questions Our Patients Ask
Q: Will it hurt to get my wisdom teeth taken out?
A: We make sure you’re completely comfortable before we start — you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Most patients are surprised by how smooth the experience is, and any soreness afterward is very manageable with the pain relief options we recommend.
Q: How long does it take to recover after having my wisdom teeth removed?
A: Most people start feeling like themselves again within 3 to 5 days. You’ll want to stick to soft foods and take it easy for a little while, but we’ll give you easy-to-follow aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.
Q: Do I really need to get my wisdom teeth out if they aren’t bothering me?
A: That’s a great question, and the answer really depends on your specific situation. Sometimes wisdom teeth that seem fine can cause crowding or hidden problems down the road, so we’ll take a close look and give you an honest recommendation based on what’s best for your smile.
Q: Can I be sedated if I’m nervous about the procedure?
A: Absolutely — we completely understand that this kind of appointment can feel a little daunting, and we offer sedation options to help you feel relaxed and at ease. Just let us know about your concerns when you come in and we’ll find the right comfort level for you.
Q: What can I eat after my wisdom teeth are removed?
A: For the first few days, soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup are your best friends. We’ll give you a full list of what to enjoy and what to avoid so your mouth can heal quickly and comfortably.
Have a question? Reach out to us!