Wisdom Tooth Extractions – Wellesley, MA

Safe Removal of Your Third Molars

Animated smile with impacted wisdom teeth

In many families, wisdom tooth extractions are considered to be a sort of rite of passage. Teens and young adults often must undergo this procedure in order to protect their oral health. Even some adults must get their wisdom teeth extracted. Are you looking for a team who can perform safe removal of your third molars? Our Wellesley, MA, dental practice is here to help. We strive to carry out this specialty procedure in a way that maximizes patient comfort and minimizes the risk of complications. Continue reading below to learn more about wisdom tooth extractions.

Why Choose Wellesley Dental Group for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?

  • Dedicated Team of General Dentists and Specialists
  • Sedation Available for Patient Comfort
  • Caring & Compassionate Support Staff

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Illustration of human jaw with impacted wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are the molars found in the very back of your mouth. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. Most people develop four wisdom teeth, but it is also possible to develop one, two, three, or five or more. Some people never develop any wisdom teeth.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Illustration of impacted wisdom tooth pushing against other teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and even gum disease. Some patients develop painful cysts or tumors around their wisdom teeth.

If you have been noticing pain, swelling, bad breath, or other symptoms that seem to be coming from the back of your mouth, your wisdom teeth may be starting to cause problems. It would be wise to see a dentist for an evaluation.

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Dental forceps holding extracted tooth

If a wisdom tooth is fully erupted, we may just need to lift it with an instrument called an elevator before we grip it with forceps and wiggle it free of its position.

On the other hand, if a tooth is fully or partially impacted, the procedure will be more complex. It might be necessary to create incisions in the gums or break a tooth into pieces in order to completely remove it.

Whichever type of wisdom tooth extraction you undergo, you can be confident that we will do all we can to make sure you are comfortable during your procedure.

Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Woman resting peacefully on sofa

Once your wisdom teeth have been extracted, the healing process begins. Healing time varies, depending on the degree of difficulty related to the extraction. Here are some practical steps you can take to facilitate a smooth recovery:

  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Do not smoke or use drinking straws.
  • Take any medications prescribed by your care team.
  • Temporarily eat a soft, non-spicy diet.
  • Maintain a good oral hygiene routine, but be extra careful around your extraction sites.
  • Contact our team if you have questions or concerns while you are healing.