Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions in Lake Grove & Lake Oswego OR

Is it wise to have your wisdom teeth removed?

Yes! There are several reasons why it’s important to have your wisdom teeth removed even if it seems like they are causing you no problems. In fact, it’s wise to have them removed while they are still erupting and their roots are not yet firmly established. Having your wisdom teeth extracted eliminates the potential for overcrowding which can cause:

• Pain
• Gum disease
• Swelling and poor mouth function
• Infection and serious health concerns
• Cysts
• Poor oral hygiene

Why do people get wisdom teeth out?

The most common reason people have their wisdom teeth removed is because their jaws aren’t large enough to hold 28 teeth plus a third set of molars (four more teeth). When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Geisler will evaluate your jaw and wisdom teeth and make a recommendation according to her findings. Lack of adequate space can lead to impacted molars which tend to cause infection and bone loss.

Dr. Geisler may recommend you have your wisdom teeth removed even if they come in properly positioned and there seems to be plenty of space for them in your jaw. Our third molars are still highly susceptible to infection and are at risk of developing cysts and tumors. When left intact, wisdom teeth need to be closely monitored for life.

Is it urgent to get wisdom teeth out?

Yes and no. The ideal time to have your wisdom teeth removed is between the ages of 17-25, when they are coming in. Once their roots are firmly established, the surgery gets more complicated. Since wisdom teeth are usually removed before they erupt, it’s wise to look for the signs before they wreaked havoc in your mouth.

X-rays are the best method to determine the status of their wisdom teeth, but other indicators include sore or swollen gums, bad breath, headaches or jaw pain, and the accidental biting of their cheek or tongue.

If you have recently gotten your braces off, beware. Erupting wisdom teeth can misalign perfectly straightened teeth that are fresh out of braces. It’s best to speak with your dentist or orthodontist and get a referral to an oral surgeon as soon as your braces are removed.

How do you extract a wisdom tooth?

During a wisdom teeth procedure, once you are sufficiently anesthetized, Dr. Geisler makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. She removes any bone that is blocking access to the tooth root and begins breaking down the tooth into smaller pieces to remove it. When she has finished removing the tooth, she cleans the surgical site and stitches the wound closed if needed. Finally, she places a piece of gauze over the extraction site to begin the process of forming a blot clot.

What should I expect from a wisdom teeth removal?

Expect to remember nothing of the surgery. Dr. Geisler makes sure you are completely sedated before beginning the procedure. The surgery typically takes less than an hour, and you’ll be provided with aftercare instructions and a prescription for pain medication upon your release.

Can you work the same day you get your wisdom teeth out?

No. Despite the fact that wisdom teeth removal is an outpatient surgery, it’s best if you can take several days off to recover. Patients typically return to work within a day or two, but taking it easy is the best way to ensure a smooth recovery.

What is the recovery time for wisdom tooth removal?

Wisdom teeth removals are one of the most common dental procedures, but the recovery can be difficult if you don’t take care of yourself properly. Slight discomfort and swelling is normal. Take care to keep the blood clot that is covering the extraction site safe and secure. It aids in the healing process. To keep it intact and pain at a minimum, avoid the following the first day or two:

• Using straws
• Brushing
• Flossing
• Rinsing your mouth
• Drinking alcohol, coffee, soda, and hot beverages
• Eating hard food

Full recovery can take up to a week. If you experience pain or swelling after a week has passed, you may have dry socket (complications resulting when the blood clot is dislodged) or an infection. Call us immediately.

What is the best way to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

The best way to heal quickly is to rest and relax as much as you can. Don’t rush the healing process. Use ice to manage the pain and to reduce inflammation. After the first day, gently rinse your mouth with salt water a couple times a day. Stay hydrated and take your time moving from soft foods to harder foods over the course of a week. Slowly resume normal activities within a week of surgery.

How much does it cost to have wisdom teeth removed?

The cost of a wisdom teeth removal depends on the amount your insurance policy covers, the number of teeth you are having removed, and the type of extraction needed. If the teeth are impacted, the cost rises. Come in for a consultation, so we can evaluate your teeth and jaw and give you an accurate estimate.