Wisdom teeth, or “third molars,” usually emerge in the late teens or early 20s. Most people have four, but limited jaw space can cause them to become impacted or misaligned. While some cause no issues, others can lead to complications and may require removal.
Overview
Indications for Wisdom Teeth Removal
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge properly, they can become impacted, growing at an angle or remaining trapped beneath the gums. This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, crowding, and even damage to nearby teeth. Removing them early can help prevent these complications and protect your long-term oral health.
When to remove your wisdom teeth
Oral surgeons often recommend removing wisdom teeth in the mid-teens or early 20s, before they cause problems. If wisdom teeth become impacted, painful, or difficult to clean, they can lead to infection, gum disease, or damage to nearby teeth.
From prep to recovery, you’re in good hands.
Before surgery
To prepare for Wisdom Tooth Extraction, follow these instructions below:
Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for at least 6 hours before surgery if receiving IV Sedation or General Anesthesia.
Medications: If instructed, take approved medications with a small sip of water. Avoid blood-thinning medications unless otherwise directed.
Oral hygiene: Brush and floss before your appointment, but do not use mouthwash.
Clothing and accessories: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid jewelry, contact lenses, nail polish, or heavy makeup.
Transportation: If undergoing Sedation or General Anesthesia, a responsible adult must accompany you and drive you home. Minors must have a parent or legal guardian present.
Illness: If you feel sick, congested, or unwell, notify our office as soon as possible.
Planning ahead: Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to make eating easier after surgery.
During surgery
Wisdom Teeth Removal is a routine outpatient procedure performed under Local Anesthesia, IV Sedation, or General Anesthesia to ensure comfort. The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum, remove the tooth (sometimes in sections for easier extraction), and close the area with dissolvable stitches if necessary.
What to expect
- The procedure typically lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity.
- You will feel numb or drowsy afterward, with some swelling and mild discomfort expected.
- Bleeding is normal for the first few hours, but it should gradually decrease.
- Most patients recover within 3–5 days, with full healing in a few weeks.
- You'll need to rest, eat soft foods, and avoid straws and strenuous activity for a smooth recovery.
After surgery
Managing bleeding & gauze
- Keep the initial gauze pad in place for 30 minutes, then replace with fresh gauze as needed until bleeding slows.
- If bleeding persists, bite down on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes to help clot formation.
- Avoid spitting, using a straw, or vigorous rinsing for at least a week, as these can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket.
Swelling & pain management
- Swelling typically peaks 2–3 days after surgery. Apply ice packs to the face in 20-minute intervals for the first 24–36 hours.
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Avoid alcohol and driving while taking narcotic pain relievers.
Diet & hydration
- Stick to a soft food diet (e.g., mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, broth). Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
- Stay hydrated, but do not use a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
When to contact us
- Excessive bleeding that does not slow with gauze pressure.
- Severe pain or swelling that worsens after 3–5 days.
- Signs of infection, such as fever, persistent bad taste, or pus.
- Dry socket symptoms (severe pain radiating to the ear or jaw).
Your questions, answered.
Advanced Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is here to address all your questions and concerns regarding Wisdom Teeth Removal.
When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are typically removed in the late teens or early 20s, before they cause pain, crowding, or complications. Early removal can help prevent future issues.
What type of anesthesia will I receive?
We offer Local Anesthesia, IV Sedation, and General Anesthesia, depending on your procedure and comfort level. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you.
What can I eat after Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soup for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as straws, to prevent complications like dry socket.
What are the signs that my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Common signs include pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, difficulty opening your mouth, or infections near the back molars. Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause damage to nearby teeth.
How long is the recovery process?
Most patients recover in about 3–5 days, with swelling and discomfort peaking within the first 48 hours. A soft diet, rest, and following post-op instructions help ensure a smooth recovery.
What is dry socket, and how can I prevent it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site dislodges, exposing the bone and nerves. To prevent it, avoid smoking, using straws, spitting forcefully, or eating hard foods during recovery.
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