Wisdom Teeth Removal
Safe and Easy Third Molar Extraction
Wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars. They usually develop between ages 17 and 25, which is much later than the other adult teeth. Because they develop so late, many people forget or don’t know that their wisdom teeth are coming until they start having pain or other problems. If left untreated, third molars can cause a number of oral health conditions that are completely avoidable by having them removed by a periodontist.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
When wisdom teeth are causing pain, they should be removed right away. However, wisdom teeth do not always cause pain. This is why we stress the importance of attending regular checkups with your general dentist. If it is discovered that your wisdom teeth are developing, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist to have them extracted.
​
Your existing molars are adequate for chewing, so this additional set of molars is unnecessary for proper function. Most people’s mouths are too small to accommodate four extra molars. If your wisdom teeth have enough space to grow into a healthy position, they may not need to be removed, but this is rare. In many cases, a wisdom tooth grows sideways and pushes against other teeth. A wisdom tooth can become impacted, or trapped beneath the gum tissue, in which case surgical intervention is necessary. Common conditions caused by wisdom teeth include:
-
Damage to the roots of other molars
-
Crowding of healthy teeth (especially the lower teeth)
-
Impaction
-
Infections, which can lead to tooth decay or gum disease
-
Cyst and tumor formation
​
The easiest course of action is to have wisdom teeth removed before these problems arise, often before the teeth ever emerge from beneath the gums. Doing so can prevent future damage and discomfort for your existing teeth and healthy tissues.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Before your procedure, you will come in for a consultation appointment so that your periodontist can review your condition, take 3D scans, and discuss your treatment plan. If you have any questions about your wisdom teeth procedure or anesthesia instructions, this consultation is the perfect time for you to ask them. As periodontists, we are qualified to administer all forms of anesthesia and offer many for you to choose from. Most patients undergo IV sedation for this procedure.
​
After the anesthesia is administered, your periodontist will remove the wisdom teeth. Visible teeth are simply removed with forceps, similar to a standard tooth extraction. For impacted wisdom teeth, the periodontist will lift a portion of the gum tissue to reach the tooth. The tooth may be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier.
​
Once the teeth are removed, the surgical sites will be sutured and you will rest in our recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. You must arrange for a designated driver to remain in the office during your surgery, drive you home afterwards, and remain with you for 24 hours.
​
Follow the instructions we provide very closely. They will guide you on how to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth and care for your extraction sites. It's important not to use a straw for 1 week, as the suction could dislodge the blood clot within the tooth socket and create a painful condition known as dry socket.
How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost?
There is no standard cost for a wisdom tooth removal procedure. The cost of your treatment will depend on several things, including the number of wisdom teeth you have, your choice of anesthesia, if any teeth are impacted, and your dental insurance. We will provide a cost estimate upfront so you know exactly what to expect.
​
Our office accepts a variety of payment methods, and there are options available to finance the cost of your wisdom teeth removal. Learn more about our Financial & Insurance Policy.