What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, and there is often not enough room for them. When they push against neighboring teeth or stay trapped under the gum, they can cause pain, swelling and repeated infections.
Removal takes those teeth out before they damage the healthy teeth around them. Depending on your imaging we may remove one tooth or all four, and we tell you which approach we recommend and why.
Who Needs Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Not every wisdom tooth has to come out. These signs suggest yours should be looked at soon.
- Aching or pressure at the back of the jaw
- Swollen, tender gum flaps over a molar
- A tooth that is only partly through the gum
- Repeated infections in the same back corner
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- A bad taste or odor near the last molar
What Should I Expect on the Day?
Imaging and Review
We map the position of each wisdom tooth and its roots, then walk you through what we see.
Comfort-First Numbing
The area is numbed in layers and tested before we start, with more anesthetic available any time.
Removal and Medication
We remove the tooth, place any needed stitches and dispense medication on-site before you go.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
You get written instructions and a next-day call to confirm healing is on track.
How Do You Make This Easier?
We explain each step before it happens, so nothing catches you off guard. Numbing is layered and checked, we take our time and we stop whenever you ask. Most patients tell us the appointment was calmer than they expected, and we will do everything we can to have you comfortable the same day you call.
What Else Do Patients Ask About Wisdom Teeth?
Do all four have to come out at once?
Not always. We recommend the smallest treatment that solves the problem and discuss the options with you first.
How long is the recovery?
Swelling usually peaks in the first two days and eases after that. Soft foods, rest and following your instructions speed things along.
What does 'impacted' mean?
An impacted wisdom tooth is stuck under the gum or bone and cannot come in normally. That pressure is often what causes pain and swelling.
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?
There is no single right age. We remove them when they are causing problems or imaging shows they are likely to.
Can I drive home after wisdom teeth removal?
If only local anesthetic is used, yes. If you receive any sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you.
What Other Care Might I Need?
Related treatments are handled by the same team in the same office, so you never have to start over somewhere else.