Does everyone need to get their wisdom teeth removed?
No, there are those very rare cases when patients don’t need to have their wisdom teeth removed. From time to time, our doctors at Leading Edge Oral Surgery see a patient whose wisdom teeth appear to fit nicely in the mouth and don’t need removal. However, these patients’ wisdom teeth are still prone to disease and must be monitored for life.
When is the best time to get wisdom teeth removed?
We recommend having your wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 15-25, before the roots have fully developed and entwined themselves in the nerves located in the jawbone. Waiting makes removal much more complicated.
Do all four teeth have to be removed?
We assess each patient’s oral health thoroughly as we determine the best course of action for each unique case. Sometimes only one or two wisdom teeth need to be removed.
Is it true that wisdom tooth removal surgery takes less than an hour?
Typically, yes! Of course, the number of teeth we are removing, the severity of impaction, and several other factors affect the length of the surgery. However, most extractions do take less than an hour, and we will keep you comfortable the whole time.
How long does recovery take after wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery time after wisdom teeth removal varies, but generally, most people start to feel better after about 3-4 days. Full healing of the gums can take a few weeks, while the complete bone healing may take several months. Swelling and discomfort usually peak within the first 48 hours and gradually improve.
Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?
During the procedure, you will receive local anesthesia so you will not feel pain. It isn’t uncommon for patients to have soreness for a few days following the surgery as the anesthesia wears off. Before surgery, we will discuss pain control methods and set you up with any necessary prescriptions, so that you remain comfortable at home as well.
Will I be awake for the extraction?
It’s up to you. We have a variety of options of anesthesia to accommodate different patients’ needs, and we discuss your anesthesia preferences prior to your surgery day.
What does “impacted” mean?
Good question! Impacted wisdom teeth are not able to fully erupt through the gums. It is a very common condition when it comes to wisdom teeth, and it is the number one reason why wisdom teeth need to be removed. In fact, 9 out of 10 people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth.
What is “dry socket”?
A dry socket is a temporary complication that arises when a blood clot becomes dislodged from the extraction site, exposing tissue. The condition can be painful, but luckily, most cases can be avoided by following home-care instructions including the avoidance of straws and smoking.