SURGICAL CARE
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Evaluation and removal of impacted, infected or problematic wisdom teeth when keeping them presents greater risk than removing them.
Wisdom teeth don’t need to come out just because they exist — extraction is recommended when a specific clinical reason, like impaction, infection or risk to neighboring teeth, outweighs the benefit of keeping them.
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SURGICAL DENTISTRY
Wisdom Tooth Extractions at Valencia Dental Office
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually develop at the back of the mouth. Some erupt normally and can be kept healthy, while others remain impacted, develop infection, contribute to decay or place neighbouring teeth at risk.
Because every mouth develops differently, some wisdom teeth erupt normally and stay healthy, while others need evaluation well before symptoms appear.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTERWARD
A Few Aftercare Basics
General guidance that applies to most wisdom tooth extractions, though your dentist will tailor instructions to your case.
Diet
Softer foods are recommended for the first several days while the area heals.
Activity
Reduced activity for a short period supports comfortable healing.
Follow-up
A follow-up visit may be scheduled to check on healing progress.
WHY EXTRACTION MAY BE RECOMMENDED
Weighing the Risks and Benefits
- ImpactionA wisdom tooth that can’t fully erupt may become trapped against bone or neighboring teeth.
- Infection or diseasePartially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to keep clean and prone to infection.
- Risk to neighboring teethWisdom teeth can sometimes crowd or damage the teeth next to them.
- Recurring problemsRepeated infection or discomfort in the area is a common reason extraction is recommended.
THE PROCEDURE
From Evaluation to Extraction
- Imaging and evaluationTooth position, surrounding structures and symptoms are evaluated with imaging.
- Discussing sedation optionsSedation options are discussed when appropriate for your comfort and the complexity of the extraction.
- The extraction itselfThe procedure ranges from a straightforward extraction to surgical removal of an impacted tooth.
- Recovery guidanceYou’re given specific aftercare instructions to support comfortable healing.
RECOVERY AFTER EXTRACTION
What to Expect In the Days After
Some swelling and discomfort in the days following extraction is common, and your dentist will give you specific guidance on managing it.
Following your aftercare instructions closely, including any dietary guidance, supports comfortable healing during the initial recovery period.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When to Schedule a Visit
Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed simply because they exist. Extraction is recommended when there is a clinical reason, such as disease, damage, repeated infection or a significant future risk that outweighs the benefit of keeping the tooth.
- Imaging has shown an impacted or problematic wisdom tooth
- You’ve experienced repeated pain, swelling or infection near a wisdom tooth
- A wisdom tooth appears to be affecting a neighboring tooth
- You want an evaluation before symptoms develop
Wisdom Tooth Extractions FAQ
- What does wisdom tooth extractions involve?
- Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually develop at the back of the mouth. Some erupt normally and can be kept healthy, while others remain impacted, develop infection, contribute to decay or place neighbouring teeth at risk.
- How do I know whether this treatment is appropriate for me?
- Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed simply because they exist. Extraction is recommended when there is a clinical reason, such as disease, damage, repeated infection or a significant future risk that outweighs the benefit of keeping the tooth.
- What should I expect from the treatment process?
- We evaluate tooth position, symptoms, surrounding structures and imaging before recommending extraction. The procedure may range from a straightforward extraction to surgical removal of an impacted tooth, with sedation options discussed when appropriate.
- Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
- No, some erupt normally and can be kept healthy; extraction is recommended only when there’s a specific clinical reason.
- How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?
- Imaging is used to evaluate tooth position and determine whether impaction or another concern is present.
- Will I need sedation for my extraction?
- This depends on the complexity of the extraction and your preferences, and is discussed as part of your evaluation.
- How long is recovery after a wisdom tooth extraction?
- This varies based on the complexity of the extraction; your dentist will give you a timeline and aftercare guidance specific to your case.
- What happens if a problematic wisdom tooth isn’t removed?
- It can continue to cause or contribute to infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or other complications over time.
