Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What to Expect

Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What to Expect

By: Hillside Dental Fine Art
Posted on: Mar 14, 2025

Wisdom teeth extractions are one of the most common oral surgery procedures, especially for young adults. At Hillside Dental, we know the idea of oral surgery can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to walk you through what to expect, so you can approach the process with confidence.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have enough room in their mouths for these late arrivals, many do not. In Las Vegas, we see a lot of patients dealing with impacted wisdom teeth, meaning the teeth don’t fully break through the gums or grow at an angle. This can lead to pain, swelling, infections, and even damage to surrounding teeth.

Other common reasons for wisdom tooth removal include:

•          Crowding: There’s often not enough space for them, which can push other teeth out of alignment.

•          Infection and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria, leading to gum inflammation and infections.

•          Cysts or Damage to Jawbone: In rare cases, cysts can form around wisdom teeth, potentially causing damage to the jawbone and nearby teeth.

How to Prepare for Your Extraction

A little preparation goes a long way. Before your procedure, make sure to:

•          Arrange for someone to drive you home, especially if you’re having sedation.

•          Stock up on soft foods so you don’t have to worry about cooking post-surgery.

•          Follow any fasting instructions if sedation is involved.

•          Ask any questions you have—our team is always happy to address any concerns.

The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process

At Hillside Dental, we make the extraction process as smooth as possible. Before anything happens, we’ll take a thorough look at your wisdom teeth with X-rays and discuss your options. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, so we’ll give you an honest recommendation based on your specific case.

On the day of your extraction, you’ll be given anesthesia options, ranging from local numbing to sedation for a more relaxed experience. The actual extraction usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are being removed and their position. If the teeth are impacted, a small incision will be made in the gum, and the tooth may be removed in sections to minimize trauma. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, just some pressure.

Most patients find that the first 48 hours are the most crucial for recovery. Swelling and mild discomfort are common, but we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, including:

•          Applying ice packs to reduce swelling

•          Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed

•          Sticking to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies

•          Avoiding straws and smoking to prevent dry sockets

Typically, full recovery takes about a week, though some patients bounce back sooner.

A Smooth Recovery Starts with Expert Care

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, but having the right dental team can make all the difference in your experience and recovery. At Hillside Dental, we take a personalized approach to ensure you’re comfortable before, during, and after your extraction. Whether you’re dealing with pain, overcrowding, or simply want to be proactive about your oral health, we’re here to help.

If you need wisdom teeth removal, schedule a consultation with Hillside Dental today. Contact our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, by calling (702) 666-8584 for new patients or (702) 895-7799 for existing patients.