Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to emerge. When they align properly and the surrounding gum tissue remains healthy, their removal isn’t necessary. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Wisdom teeth often fail to erupt properly, growing sideways, partially emerging, or becoming trapped beneath the gum and bone. These impacted teeth can take various positions as they struggle to find a pathway to erupt.

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several issues. When partially erupted, the opening around the teeth creates a space for bacteria to grow, which can cause infections characterized by swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness. Additionally, the pressure from erupting wisdom teeth may shift other teeth, disrupting their alignment, including orthodontic results. More severe complications can arise when cysts or tumors develop around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to the destruction of the jawbone and neighboring teeth.

Removing impacted wisdom teeth typically resolves these problems, and early removal is often recommended to prevent future complications and reduce the surgical risks associated with the procedure.

Through a thorough oral examination and x-rays, Our Team can assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if there are current or potential future issues. Research shows that early evaluation and treatment lead to better outcomes for patients. Typically, patients are first assessed in their mid-teens by their dentist, orthodontist, or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgeries are performed under appropriate anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort. Our Team are highly trained, licensed, and experienced in administering various types of anesthesia, allowing patients to choose the best option for their needs.

In most cases, wisdom teeth removal is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen), or general anesthesia. These options, along with the potential surgical risks (such as sensory nerve damage and sinus complications), will be thoroughly discussed with you before the procedure. After the teeth are removed, the gums will be sutured, and you will be asked to bite down on gauze to control bleeding. You will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to go home.

Upon discharge, you'll receive a postoperative kit containing detailed instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment in one week to remove the sutures. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at 850-518-3278.

Our procedures are conducted in a safe environment, using modern monitoring equipment and a team experienced in anesthesia techniques to ensure your comfort and safety.

If there is insufficient space in your mouth for your third molars (wisdom teeth) to fully erupt, several complications may arise. It is recommended to remove impacted wisdom teeth before their root structures are fully developed. For some patients, this can be as early as age 12 or 13, while others may need extraction in their early twenties. Complications tend to become more frequent after the age of 30.

Some potential issues related to not removing wisdom teeth include:

As wisdom teeth develop, their roots grow longer and the jawbone becomes denser. When impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed in your thirties, forties, or later, the recovery process can be longer, and the risk of complications increases. Treating these issues in older patients is often more challenging and less predictable than in younger patients. Healing may take longer, and the risk of infection may be higher. If impacted wisdom teeth are not removed during the teenage years or early twenties, and they become fully impacted in bone, it may be necessary to wait until a localized issue (such as cyst formation, gum disease, or bone loss) arises. Overall, treatment is typically faster, more predictable, and associated with fewer complications when performed during the teens or early twenties.

Most patients prefer to be sedated during wisdom tooth removal to avoid any discomfort. During your consultation, we will discuss the anesthesia options available to you. All outpatient surgeries are performed under the appropriate anesthesia to ensure maximum comfort. Our team is fully trained, licensed, and experienced in providing a range of anesthesia types. We prioritize your safety, using modern monitoring equipment and well-trained staff to create an optimal environment. Our surgical facilities, staff, and doctors are regularly inspected by the Board of Dental Examiners to ensure the highest standards of care.

On the day of your procedure, we will administer medications to reduce pain and swelling post-surgery. Please arrange for a parent or responsible adult to accompany you to the office and stay with you for the rest of the day. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you will be in the office for about 90 minutes. Thanks to recent advancements in medicine and technology, wisdom tooth removal is now a quicker, more comfortable process that promotes faster healing and minimal post-operative discomfort. We adhere to strict sterilization and infection control protocols at all times.

On the day of surgery, it is essential that you do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours before your appointment (preferably longer), except for prescription medications with a small sip of water. Eating before surgery can increase the risk of serious complications, including nausea and vomiting. If these guidelines are not followed, your procedure will be rescheduled. We may provide you with a prescription for pain medication during your consultation, which you can fill in advance.

When you arrive for the procedure, we will ensure you are as comfortable as possible. If you choose sedation, we will place an IV in your left arm for quick and nearly painless medication delivery. Local anesthesia will be administered afterward to ensure comfort and allow you to travel home and rest. You will likely feel drowsy for a significant portion of the day.

The Day of Treatment: Ensure you have an adult with you on the day of your wisdom tooth removal. Please make arrangements for a parent or responsible adult to stay with you for the remainder of the day after the procedure.

If stitches are required, they are typically dissolvable and will dissolve within 3 to 5 days, so you won’t need to return for removal. It’s normal to experience some swelling and a sensation of your gums pulling away from your teeth during recovery, but this should subside in a few days.

Once the local anesthesia wears off, you may need prescription pain medication. Start with non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (Advil®) to manage any discomfort. If that doesn’t fully relieve your pain, you can begin taking the prescribed pain medication. The local anesthesia may last into the next day, but this is normal and not a sign of nerve damage.

Start your post-operative diet with clear liquids such as broth or gelatin, gradually introducing more solid foods as you feel ready. We recommend avoiding dairy products like yogurt, ice cream, and milkshakes on the day of surgery, as they may cause nausea when combined with anesthesia and pain medication.

If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics and take birth control pills, please note that antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of birth control. Take appropriate precautions during this time.

The cost of your treatment is influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the tooth removal and the type of anesthesia required. During your consultation, the surgeon will review your x-rays, conduct an examination, and determine the best anesthesia option before providing an accurate cost estimate. Since each insurance provider has different policies regarding coverage for surgical procedures, our office staff will assist you in maximizing your insurance benefits for the treatment.

During your consultation, we will discuss your specific situation in more detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions come up after your consultation, feel free to call our office at 850-518-3278 to speak with one of our patient care coordinators.