Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal
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What is an Impacted Tooth?
An impacted tooth is one that does not have enough room to fully emerge into the mouth.
While most people develop 32 adult teeth, the jaw often lacks sufficient space for the wisdom teeth to erupt properly. When this happens, the teeth may remain trapped beneath the gums or partially emerge, making them difficult to clean and more likely to cause discomfort or infection.
Oral Examination:
A thorough evaluation helps determine if wisdom teeth may cause future problems.
During an oral examination, your surgeon will review X-rays and evaluate the position and development of your wisdom teeth. This allows us to identify existing concerns and anticipate potential issues before they become more serious.
Wisdom teeth are often evaluated during the teenage years or early adulthood, when removal can be simpler and recovery tends to be faster. All outpatient procedures are performed with appropriate anesthesia options to ensure comfort and safety throughout treatment.
Should I Have My Wisdom Tooth Removed?
Wisdom teeth may need to be removed when there isn’t enough room for proper eruption.
When wisdom teeth are unable to emerge fully, they can create a variety of oral health concerns. In many cases, removal is recommended before the roots fully develop—often during the late teens or early twenties.
While some patients may not experience symptoms immediately, the risk of complications increases with age. Early evaluation allows for informed decision-making and often leads to a smoother recovery.
Possible problems when wisdom teeth are not removed include:
Infection
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria beneath the gums, making them difficult to keep clean. This often leads to recurring pain, swelling, and localized infection. Without treatment, infections may spread and become more uncomfortable over time.
Cyst Formation:
Fluid-filled cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth due to ongoing pressure within the jaw. These cysts may grow slowly and damage surrounding bone and nearby teeth. Early detection and treatment help prevent more extensive complications.
Crowding:
As wisdom teeth continue to develop, they can place pressure on neighboring teeth. This pressure may contribute to crowding or shifting, even if changes are not immediately noticeable. Over time, this can affect bite alignment and overall oral stability.
Damage to Nearby Teeth:
When wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, bacteria can collect and affect the adjacent molars. This increases the risk of decay, gum disease, and bone loss around nearby teeth. Left untreated, this damage can compromise the health of otherwise strong teeth.
What If Wisdom Teeth Are Removed Later in Life?
Wisdom teeth can still be safely removed in adulthood, but the procedure may be more complex than in younger patients. As we age, the jawbone becomes denser and the roots of wisdom teeth continue to develop, which can make extraction more challenging. Healing time may also be longer, and swelling or discomfort can last a bit longer compared to earlier removal.
In some cases, the risk of complications such as infection or delayed healing increases with age. However, with proper planning and experienced surgical care, wisdom teeth removal later in life can still be successful. Your surgeon will carefully evaluate your specific situation to recommend the safest and most effective treatment approach.
What Happens on the Day My Tooth is Removed?
Pre-operative surgical instructions
Post-operative surgical instructions
How Much Does It Cost? Is It Covered by Insurance?
The cost of treatment depends on several individual factors. Pricing may vary based on the complexity of the extraction, anesthesia needs, and insurance coverage. During your consultation, we’ll review your X-rays, discuss your treatment plan, and provide a clear cost estimate. Our team is happy to assist with insurance coordination and help you understand your coverage and payment options.