How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?

The wisdom teeth removal procedure at Rosecrans Square Dental typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete. The exact duration may vary depending on several factors, such as the number of wisdom teeth being removed, their position in your mouth, whether they are impacted, and the complexity of your individual case. During your consultation, Dr. Eun Soo Lee will thoroughly evaluate your situation and provide a more personalized estimate for your procedure. While the actual surgery is usually brief, please allow additional time for preparation and post-surgical monitoring to ensure your comfort and safety before you return home.

At Rosecrans Square Dental, we understand that every wisdom tooth extraction is unique, and the time required for removal can vary significantly from patient to patient. Several important factors influence how long your procedure will take, and our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing you with the safest and most efficient care possible.

●Position of the Wisdom Tooth
One of the primary considerations our dentists evaluate is the position of your wisdom tooth. If your tooth is fully erupted and properly aligned, the extraction is generally more straightforward and quicker. However, if your wisdom tooth is impacted—trapped beneath the gum line or embedded in the jawbone—a more complex surgical approach may be needed, which can extend the procedure time.

●Number of Teeth Being Removed
Whether you need one or all four wisdom teeth extracted at Rosecrans Square Dental, the number of teeth being removed in a single visit will affect the appointment duration. Multiple extractions naturally require more time and careful attention to ensure your comfort and safety.

●Tooth Root Shape and Curvature
The shape and position of tooth roots are unique for each patient. Teeth with curved or unusually shaped roots may be more challenging to remove, which can add to the procedure time. Our team uses advanced imaging and techniques to assess these factors before your extraction.

●Patient Age and Oral Health
Age and overall oral health are also important considerations. Younger patients often have softer bones and less firmly anchored teeth, making extractions smoother and faster. For older adults, or for those with other dental conditions such as infection or inflammation, the process can be more complex and may take longer.

At Rosecrans Square Dental, we prioritize your comfort and safety throughout your wisdom teeth removal procedure. One of the most common questions our patients have is how long it takes for anesthesia to wear off after their surgery. The length of time you may feel numbness or drowsiness depends on the type of anesthesia used:

●Local Anesthesia (e.g., lidocaine or articaine): If our oral surgeon used a local anesthetic, you can expect numbness in your mouth and surrounding areas to last approximately two to four hours. Mild tingling or slight numbness may persist for a few more hours after that.

●Sedation Anesthesia (IV sedation or general anesthesia): For patients who received IV sedation or general anesthesia, you might experience grogginess, drowsiness, and reduced coordination for up to 24 hours. For your safety, please arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home and avoid operating heavy machinery during this time.

Everyone responds differently to anesthesia. Factors such as your metabolism, overall health, and the specific dosage administered can influence how quickly you recover full sensation and alertness. While it’s normal to experience some lingering numbness or tingling, please reach out to our team if you notice any of the following after your wisdom teeth removal:
●Numbness or tingling that lasts beyond 24 hours
●Severe swelling or pain
●Difficulty breathing
●Loss of sensation that does not improve

Our dental professionals are here to ensure your recovery goes smoothly. If you have any concerns after your procedure, don’t hesitate to call Rosecrans Square Dental for support and guidance.

Swelling typically begins within the first day after your procedure and usually peaks around the second or third day. During this period, you may notice puffiness in your cheeks and jaw area, and mild bruising is also common.

By the fourth or fifth day, you should notice the swelling beginning to subside. Most of our patients find that the majority of the swelling resolves within a week, although some minor puffiness may linger for up to ten days. Keep in mind, your recovery timeline can depend on factors such as the complexity of your extraction, how many teeth were removed, and your individual healing process.

The dentists at Rosecrans Square Dental recommend the following steps to help minimize swelling and support your recovery:
●Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals during the first 24 hours.
●Keep your head elevated while resting, especially in the first few days after surgery.

Your health and comfort are our top priorities at Rosecrans Square Dental. If you have any concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re here to help you heal quickly and safely! For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11818 Rosecrans Ave, Ste B Norwalk, CA 90650. We serve patients from Norwalk CA, Artesia CA, Cerritos CA, Santa Fe Springs CA, Downey CA, Bellflower CA, La Mirada CA, Los Alamitos CA, Stanton CA, and surrounding areas.