WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION

Make room for a healthier tomorrow.

Understand your wisdom teeth, explore your treatment options, and feel prepared for the next step in your care.

UNDERSTANDING WISDOM TEETH

The last teeth to arrive.
A plan that starts with you.

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the teeth at the very back of your mouth. They may grow in fully, emerge only partly, or remain beneath the gum or bone.

An examination and imaging help your surgeon assess their position, your oral health, and whether removal or continued monitoring is appropriate.

Pain or repeated inflammation

Soreness or swelling around the back teeth may need evaluation.

Decay or gum disease

Hard-to-clean areas can develop disease around a wisdom tooth.

Impaction or nearby damage

A tooth’s position may affect neighboring teeth or surrounding tissue.

A finding on your examination

Some problems may be identified even when you do not feel pain.

AN INDIVIDUAL DECISION

Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?

01

When removal may help

Your surgeon may recommend extraction when a tooth has disease, causes problems, or presents a risk that makes removal appropriate. The decision considers each tooth and your overall health.

02

When monitoring may fit

Healthy, functional, fully erupted wisdom teeth that can be kept clean may not require removal. If you keep them, regular examinations help monitor changes over time.

AN INDIVIDUAL DECISION

Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?

01

Start with the full picture

Your surgeon reviews your concerns, health history, medications, and relevant imaging. You’ll discuss options and ask questions before treatment.

02

A plan for your comfort

Your surgeon explains how your wisdom teeth will be removed and discusses your anesthesia options. An impacted tooth may require an incision or removal in sections.

03

Instructions to take home

You’ll receive directions for medication, eating, cleaning, activity, and follow-up. Healing time depends on the tooth, procedure, and your health.

Start with the full picture

Your surgeon reviews your concerns, health history, medications, and relevant imaging. You’ll discuss options and ask questions before treatment.

BEFORE & AFTER YOUR VISIT

A little preparation.
A clearer recovery plan.

Bring your health information and medication list. Follow the instructions specific to your appointment, especially if sedation or general anesthesia is planned.

After treatment, follow your discharge plan and contact your surgical team if you have concerning symptoms or questions.

Preparing for your consultation
What to gather and discuss before your visit.
Preoperative anesthesia instructions
Confirm your fasting, medication, and transportation plan.
Postoperative instructions
Guidance for caring for yourself after treatment.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Answers before your appointment.

Bring your questions to your consultation. Your surgeon will explain what applies to your wisdom teeth.

1What does “impacted” mean?
An impacted tooth has not emerged normally into the mouth. It may be partly or fully covered by gum or bone, or positioned at an angle that prevents it from growing in fully.
2Do I need treatment if they don’t hurt?
A lack of pain does not always mean a tooth is healthy. An examination and imaging help determine whether removal or monitoring is the better option for you.
3Will all four teeth be removed?
Not necessarily. Your surgeon will evaluate each tooth and discuss the benefits and risks of removing one, several, or all of your wisdom teeth.
4Will I be asleep during the procedure?
Your anesthesia plan is based on your health, the procedure, and your needs. Ask your care team which options are appropriate and what preparation each requires.
5How much time should I plan for recovery?
Recovery varies with the number and position of the teeth and the complexity of removal. Your surgeon will advise you about returning to school, work, sports, and your usual diet.
6When should I contact the office after surgery?
Contact your surgical team for severe or persistent pain, excessive bleeding, worsening swelling, or other concerning symptoms. Follow the contact instructions on your discharge paperwork.