Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually appear between ages 17 and 25. While some people have enough space for them to grow normally, many experience impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth that can cause pain, swelling, or infection. In such cases, a surgical wisdom tooth extraction is often the best solution.
At Oral Medics Dental Clinic, we aim to make this procedure as safe and comfortable as possible while helping patients understand every step.
Why Surgical Extraction May Be Needed
Surgical extraction is recommended when:
- Wisdom teeth are impacted (stuck under the gum or bone)
- Teeth are partially erupted and causing infection (pericoronitis)
- There is severe crowding affecting other teeth
- Cysts or other complications are forming around the tooth
- Chronic pain or repeated infections occur
Unlike a simple extraction, surgical removal may involve making a small incision in the gum and, in some cases, removing a portion of bone to access the tooth.
Step-by-Step: The Surgical Wisdom Tooth Procedure
At Oral Medics Dental Clinic, we follow a precise, pain-managed process:
- Comprehensive Examination
X-rays or 3D scans are taken to assess the position, size, and angle of the wisdom tooth, as well as the surrounding bone and nerves.
- Anesthesia and Sedation
Local anesthesia numbs the area. For anxious patients or complex cases, conscious sedation or IV sedation may be offered for a completely relaxed experience.
- Incision and Access
A small incision is made in the gum to expose the tooth. If necessary, a small amount of bone covering the tooth is gently removed.
- Tooth Sectioning
In some cases, the tooth is divided into smaller pieces to remove it safely without excessive force, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
- Extraction and Cleaning
The tooth is carefully removed, and the area is cleaned to prevent infection.
- Stitches and Protection
Dissolvable or removable stitches may be placed to support healing. Gauze is applied to control bleeding.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery after surgical wisdom tooth removal typically involves:
- Swelling and mild discomfort for 2–3 days
- Minor bleeding initially, controlled by gauze
- Bruising in some cases
- Temporary difficulty opening the mouth
Home care tips for smooth recovery:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours
- Use ice packs on the cheek to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods and stay hydrated
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, or using straws for the first 48 hours
- Gently rinse with warm saltwater after 24 hours, as recommended
- Take prescribed medications for pain and infection
Most patients recover fully within 1–2 weeks, with stitches dissolving naturally or removed during follow-up.
Benefits of Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- Eliminates pain and swelling caused by impacted teeth
- Prevents infection, cyst formation, and damage to adjacent teeth
- Reduces the risk of misalignment in your jaw or orthodontic complications
- Preserves long-term oral health by removing hidden problems
Why Choose Oral Medics Dental Clinic
Surgical extraction can seem daunting, but our experienced oral surgeons and caring staff make the experience as comfortable as possible:
- Advanced imaging for precise planning
- Modern surgical techniques to minimize trauma
- Sedation options for anxiety-free treatment
- Comprehensive post-operative care and guidance
At Oral Medics Dental Clinic, we focus on patient comfort, safety, and successful outcomes.
