The Removal Procedure

Wisdom tooth removal is a routine outpatient procedure. Most patients are in and out of the office in about 90 minutes, with the surgery itself taking 30–60 minutes. Our surgeons are trained and licensed to provide all levels of anesthesia in a safe, monitored environment.

Anesthesia Options

At your consultation, we will review your options and recommend the approach that best fits your needs:

• Local anesthesia — Numbs the area; you remain fully awake.
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) — Reduces anxiety while keeping you conscious.
• IV sedation — The most popular choice. Options vary from minimal, moderate, deep sedation and general anesthesia. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you, and determine the appropriate level of sedation for you.

Before Your Surgery

To prepare for a safe procedure with IV sedation:

• Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the day of surgery (other than prescribed medications with a small sip of water). This is critical for anesthesia safety — your procedure will be rescheduled if this is not followed.
• A responsible adult must drive you and stay with you for the rest of the day

What Happens on the Day

You will be seated comfortably in the surgical room. If you are being sedated, an IV will be placed (quick and nearly painless). Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the area is fully numb (this occurs after sedative medication is administered if you opt for sedation).

The surgery proceeds, and when complete, the site may be sutured with dissolvable stitches that do not need removal.

You will rest in our office until ready to be accompanied home.

Evaluation & Timing

We recommend patients be evaluated during the mid-teenage years — by their dentist, orthodontist, or our office. Early assessment allows us to plan removal before complications develop and while healing is fastest. If removal is delayed into the thirties or beyond, roots are longer, the jawbone is denser, recovery takes longer, and the risk of complications is higher.

If fully impacted wisdom teeth in an older patient are causing no problems, monitoring rather than immediate removal may be appropriate. Your surgeon will advise based on your individual X-rays and clinical exam.

Cost & Insurance

The cost depends on the complexity of impaction, number of teeth, and type of anesthesia. A detailed estimate is provided after your consultation and X-rays. Our staff will work with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage — policies vary, so we recommend confirming your benefits beforehand. CareCredit financing is also available.