Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Safe, comfortable wisdom teeth removal with expert care

Professional Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop and often emerge in late teens or early twenties. Many people need to have their wisdom teeth removed because there isn't enough space in the mouth for them to grow properly, leading to pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.

At K-Family Dental, our experienced dentists perform wisdom tooth extractions using modern techniques to ensure your comfort and promote fast healing. We take the time to explain the procedure thoroughly and provide comprehensive aftercare instructions.

Why Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed

Your dentist may recommend wisdom tooth extraction if you experience:

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

1. Initial Consultation and X-rays

We'll take dental X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth, their roots, and proximity to nerves and sinuses. This helps us plan the safest approach for extraction.

2. Anesthesia Options

We offer several anesthesia options for your comfort:

3. Extraction Procedure

For simple extractions where the tooth has fully erupted, we gently loosen and remove the tooth. For impacted wisdom teeth, we may need to make a small incision in the gum and remove the tooth in sections. The procedure typically takes 20-40 minutes per tooth.

4. Stitches and Recovery

If needed, we'll place dissolvable stitches to help the gum heal. You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions and pain management recommendations.

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Recovery and Aftercare

What to Expect After Extraction

Most people recover from wisdom tooth extraction within 3-7 days. You may experience:

Aftercare Instructions

To promote healing and prevent complications:

Wisdom Teeth FAQs

How painful is wisdom tooth extraction?

The procedure itself is not painful because of anesthesia. You'll feel pressure but no pain during extraction. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience discomfort for 3-7 days, but this is usually well-managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. Most patients describe the pain as moderate and decreasing each day.

When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

The ideal time is typically in your late teens or early twenties when the roots are not fully developed, making extraction easier and recovery faster. However, wisdom teeth can be safely removed at any age if they're causing problems. We recommend early evaluation around age 16-18 to monitor wisdom teeth development.

Can I go to work or school the next day?

Most people need 1-3 days off work or school, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your job requirements. If you have a desk job, you might return after 1-2 days. Physical jobs may require 3-4 days. Plan to take it easy for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

What can I eat after wisdom tooth extraction?

For the first 24 hours, stick to soft, cool foods like:

Gradually reintroduce normal foods as you heal. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or hot foods for at least a week.

What is dry socket and how do I prevent it?

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing bone and nerves. It causes severe pain 2-3 days after extraction. Prevent it by:

Dry socket affects about 2-5% of extractions and is treatable if it occurs.

Do all four wisdom teeth need to be removed at once?

Not necessarily. The number removed depends on how many are problematic. Some people have all four removed in one appointment for convenience and cost-effectiveness, while others may only need one or two removed. We'll assess your specific situation and discuss the best approach for you.

How much does wisdom tooth extraction cost?

The cost varies depending on the complexity of the extraction (simple vs. impacted) and how many teeth are removed. Simple extractions are typically less expensive than surgical removal of impacted teeth. Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of wisdom tooth extraction. We'll provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation and can process your insurance claim directly.