Wisdom Teeth Removal: Procedure & Recovery Q&A

In most cases, wisdom tooth removal surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure by a dentist or an oral surgeon. Before the procedure, dental professionals use an X-ray to determine how the third molars are positioned and the best approach for removal. They will also discuss anesthesia options so you can be as comfortable and relaxed as possible during the removal.

In cases where the tooth has not emerged through the gums, a small incision is made to access it. Sometimes, there is a small piece of bone in the way of the tooth, which will need to be removed. In addition, the tooth may be cut into smaller pieces if it is difficult to remove. If the tooth has emerged through the gums, the professional may make a smaller incision or not require one at all.

As the area will be numbed, you shouldn’t feel pain during wisdom tooth removal, although you may notice some pressure as the tooth is taken out of the socket. If you do feel discomfort during the procedure, it’s important to let your dentist or oral surgeon know so they can administer more anesthetic.

Usually, it takes a few minutes to over half an hour to remove a single third molar, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This means that, on average, your wisdom tooth removal surgery may last from 30 minutes to over two hours, based on how many teeth are being removed and whether they are impacted or not.

In addition, the type of anesthesia that you opt for will influence the length of the procedure. For instance, local anesthesia, which numbs the specific area where the tooth will be removed, generally allows for a quicker procedure. On the other hand, general anesthesia or sedation, which is often recommended for more complex cases or for patients who experience anxiety, can add time to the preparation stage of the treatment.

The length of your recovery after wisdom tooth removal depends on various factors. Typically, it takes about one to two weeks before you can return to most of your routine after wisdom tooth removal. Many people resume work, school, and other commitments within a few days of the procedure. It’s essential to remember that your recovery depends on how diligently you follow the aftercare instructions outlined by your dentist.

During the first few days after your wisdom tooth removal, you can expect swelling in the face, bleeding in the mouth, a stiff or sore jaw, and bruising on the cheeks. The symptoms should gradually improve over the weeks following your surgery, and once they have subsided enough, you can return to regular activities.

It’s important to be careful to prevent complications after wisdom tooth removal, such as dry sockets. Your dentist will describe how to rinse your mouth, how long to avoid using straws and smoking, and when you can return to exercise. By following their instructions, you can ensure a smooth and speedy recovery after your treatment.

If your dentist is advising removing your wisdom teeth, it may be due to several reasons, such as preventive care, chronic discomfort, or complications such as widespread tooth decay, damage to adjacent teeth, or gum disease. Many dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal for young adults before the third molars fully grow in and begin to cause problems. As the roots of the third molars aren’t fully formed and the jaw is less dense, recovery from preventive removal is generally fast and straightforward.

In addition, if your wisdom teeth are causing issues, such as pain, repeated infection, or pressure on surrounding teeth, the only way to comprehensively address these concerns is through removal. Regular check-ups at the dentist are important, as they allow the professional to monitor the position of your third molars and determine the optimal time to remove them.

To determine whether it’s a good time to have your wisdom teeth removed, schedule a consultation appointment with the dedicated team at Rosecrans Square Dental. For more information, contact us! 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.