Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. When they have enough room and develop normally, wisdom teeth can function like any other tooth. However, many patients’ jaws are not large enough for these extra molars. If wisdom teeth become impacted (stuck) or emerge sideways, they can cause serious problems, including pain, infection, and crowding of other teeth. In fact, about 85% of people will need their wisdom teeth removed at some point because of these issues. Our Scarborough dental clinic specializes in gentle, comfortable wisdom tooth care for teens and adults alike.
When to Remove Wisdom Teeth
We recommend removing wisdom teeth that are impacted, causing pain, or threatening your oral health. If problematic wisdom teeth are left in place, they can lead to:
- Chronic infection or cysts: Partially erupted teeth can trap bacteria and develop infections, potentially forming cysts that damage jaw jawbone. Untreated wisdom teeth often become painful and infected.
- Crowding and shifting: Limited jaw space means wisdom teeth can push on neighboring teeth, undoing orthodontic work or causing bite problems.
- Tooth decay or gum disease: Wisdom teeth are hard to reach and clean, so decay or gum inflammation can set in easily. This can spread to adjacent molars.
- Pain and swelling: Impacted wisdom teeth commonly cause persistent pain in the back of the mouth, as well as gum swelling or tenderness.
Dentists often find these issues during routine X-rays or exams. By removing wisdom teeth before problems become severe, we prevent future dental emergencies. As one Scarborough practice notes, “most jaws simply aren’t big enough” for wisdom teeth, so early removal avoids crowding and infections.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Having your wisdom teeth taken out is a routine surgical procedure at our clinic. The process generally includes
- Consultation and X-rays: We first examine your mouth and take panoramic X-rays to pinpoint the position of each wisdom tooth. This helps us plan the safest approach.
- Anesthesia and Sedation: Before extraction, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. We also offer sedation options (nitrous oxide or IV sedation) for added comfort and to help anxious patients relax. Many patients feel completely at ease during the procedure.
- Extraction: Our oral surgeon makes small incisions in the gum tissue above each wisdom tooth (and removes a little bone if necessary) to access the tooth. The tooth is gently loosened and removed with forceps. This step is often described as surprisingly quick and painless under anesthesia.
- Closure and Aftercare: Once removed, the socket is cleaned and usually closed with dissolvable stitches. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to control bleeding and swelling. Most wisdom teeth can be removed in a single office visit, and our friendly team makes sure you stay comfortable the whole time.
Recovery and Aftercare
After wisdom tooth surgery, following care instructions is key to a smooth recovery. For the first 24–48 hours, rest with your head elevated and apply cold packs to your cheeks in 15-minute intervals—this greatly reduces swelling. Bite gently on the provided gauze to promote clotting, and only replace the gauze as directed. Starting the day after surgery, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water several times a day to keep the socket clean and help healing.
Post-Extraction Tips:
- Use ice packs on your face for 1–2 days to ease swelling.
- Eat soft foods (smoothies, broths, yogurt, mashed vegetables) and stay hydrated. Nutritious, soft meals speed healing.
- Take prescribed medications (pain relievers or antibiotics) exactly as directed.
- Avoid straws, smoking, and hard foods for at least a week. These actions can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
- Gently brush and rinse after 24 hours. Use a soft toothbrush and avoid the extraction sites at first, switching to warm salt-water rinses five times a day to flush out debris.
Most patients find that swelling and discomfort peak around 1–2 days post-op and then steadily improve. By about a week, you should feel largely back to normal. If any heavy bleeding, severe pain, or other concerns arise, contact our office right away. With proper care, “pain and inflammation should subside within a few days” as a normal part of recovery.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
We understand cost is an important consideration. The price of wisdom tooth extraction in Scarborough varies based on factors like the number of teeth and their positions. Many practices, including ours, strive for affordable care. For example, one Scarborough dental clinic lists wisdom tooth extraction at roughly $280–$700 per tooth, with the procedure often covered by dental insurance. (Insurance coverage depends on your plan, but many cover impacted extractions.) At your consultation, we’ll provide a clear estimate based on your X-rays and discuss payment options. Our goal is to ensure you get the care you need without financial surprises.
Why Choose Our Scarborough Clinic
Our Scarborough dental office stands out for wisdom teeth removal because of our expertise, technology, and patient care. Key reasons to trust us:
- Expert Oral Surgeon: We have a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon on our team, so even the most complex cases are handled safely and skillfully.
- Comfort and Sedation: We offer sedation dentistry (laughing gas, oral sedation, or IV sedation) so that even anxious teens or adults can relax. Sedation dentistry makes wisdom tooth surgery virtually stress-free.
- Friendly, Experienced Team: Our staff is known for being “highly experienced and friendly,” ensuring you’re comfortable and informed at every step. We take time to answer questions and explain the process.
- Modern Technology: We use up-to-date digital X-rays and gentle surgical techniques. This means more precise treatment and faster healing.
- Convenience: We are conveniently located in Scarborough, easily accessible to local patients and those coming from Toronto or nearby suburbs. Many families who search for “wisdom teeth removal near me” choose our clinic because of our reputation for quality care.
By choosing us for wisdom tooth surgery in Scarborough, you get personalized attention and top-notch care. Our patients often say they wish they had done it sooner after seeing how smooth the process is. We serve everyone from young adults to busy parents looking for reliable wisdom tooth removal Scarborough can count on.
Book Your Consultation
Don’t wait for wisdom tooth pain to worsen. If you’re searching for wisdom teeth removal near me, look no further—our Scarborough oral surgeon is ready to help. Schedule a consultation today so we can evaluate your wisdom teeth and discuss the best plan. We’ll review your X-rays, answer all your questions about recovery and cost, and help you feel at ease. Call our office or use our online booking to reserve an appointment. Let our skilled team take care of your wisdom teeth with the gentle, professional service you deserve.
Ready for a healthy, pain-free smile? Contact us now to book your wisdom teeth removal consultation.