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Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Information Page is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive insights into the specialized procedure we offer. Explore in-depth guides and watch educational videos. We're committed to ensuring you're well-informed and confident when choosing us for your wisdom teeth extraction needs.
Timing is Key: Knowing When to Remove Wisdom Teeth
What's the Deal with Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, those pesky third molars, have a unique spot in our dental lineup. Here's a simple breakdown of what they are and why they often cause so much fuss.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are like those guests who show up late to the party, usually arriving between the ages of 17 to 25. By then, most of us have jaws that are already pretty snug (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Because there isn't much room left, these latecomers often don't fit properly, leading to a bunch of issues like pain, impaction, and infections.
Age RangePercentage of People with Erupted Wisdom Teeth17 - 2590%25 - 3575%35+60%
Impacted wisdom teeth are a common ordeal, happening when there just isn't enough space for them to pop through or align correctly. This can turn into a nightmare of pain, infection, decay, gum problems, and even damage to neighboring teeth (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). If you're wondering whether it's time to say goodbye to your wisdom teeth, check out our article on signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
Why Do We Even Have Wisdom Teeth?
Back in the day, when cavemen were munching on fibrous plants and raw meat, wisdom teeth were real MVPs. They were necessary for breaking down tough foods. Fast forward to today, our diets are way easier on the chompers, making these third molars pretty much obsolete.
With those diet changes and smaller jaw sizes, today's wisdom teeth are like trying to fit a size ten foot into a size eight shoe. They often get misplaced, leading to issues that might mean they need to be pulled out. Keeping those troublesome teeth can hamper your oral health, so removing them is sometimes the best move. To dive deeper into this topic, take a peek at do wisdom teeth always need to be removed.
Knowing a bit about wisdom teeth can help you figure out when should wisdom teeth be removed. For advice on the best timing for the procedure, our next section on the best age for wisdom teeth removal has you covered.
Best Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Choosing the right moment to get those pesky wisdom teeth out can mean fewer headaches later on. We'll look at the best age for the procedure and why getting ahead of the curve matters.
Prime Time for Removal
Wisdom teeth usually start making their grand entrance between ages 17 and 25. It's best to yank them out before the roots settle in too deeply, which is when they've developed about 25% to 50%. This sweet spot offers a smoother operation and faster healing (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Teenagers are often the perfect candidates, but really, anyone from 10 to 90 could find themselves needing the procedure.
Age RangeRoot DevelopmentBest Time for Removal17-2525% - 50%Best candidates10-16Pre-eruptionMight need it for braces26-90Post-eruptionOften due to complications
For a deeper dive, check out our article on optimal timing for wisdom teeth removal.
Why Early Birds Win
Getting those wisdom teeth out early can stave off a bunch of oral headaches. We're talking pain, infections, cavities, gum issues, and damaging nearby teeth because there’s just no room (Dr. Wisdom Teeth). Yank ‘em before the issues pop up, and you’re looking at easier surgery and quicker recovery times.
Wait too long, though, and things can get messy. Complex surgeries, higher odds of complications, and painfully long healing times are all on the table. If your wisdom teeth start acting up, get to your dentist ASAP. Need a sign? Peek at our article on symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth.
Knowing when and why to take out those wisdom teeth helps keep your mouth healthy and your worries at bay. For more signs and reasons to bid farewell to your wisdom teeth, check out our guides on key signs for wisdom teeth removal and necessity of wisdom teeth removal.
By sorting your wisdom teeth situation early, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble—and who doesn’t want that?
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Wisdom Teeth Removal
Putting off getting your wisdom teeth out can make things messier and riskier down the line. Here’s why acting sooner rather than later is a smart move.
Risks of Waiting
Dragging your feet on wisdom teeth removal? Here's what could go wrong:
Infections: Those little buggers can trap food and bacteria, leading to nasty infections. Over time, expect inflammation and even more headaches.
Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth might develop cysts that can wreck havoc on your jawbone and nearby teeth.
Gum Disease: As those teeth push through the gums, they can create pockets that let bacteria run wild, upping your gum disease risk.
Tooth Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are tough to clean, inviting cavities for both them and their neighboring molars.
In a nutshell, popping those teeth out early, preferably in your teens or early twenties, can save you a world of dental drama (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
Complications as You Grow Older
The older you get, the trickier and more painful wisdom teeth removal can be. Here’s why:
Bone Density: As the jawbone gets denser with age, yanking those teeth out becomes more challenging and painful. Plus, you'll spend more time healing.
Nerve Proximity: The roots of your wisdom teeth can start hugging the mandibular nerve. When you’re older, pulling them out risks nerve damage, which might leave you with a numb lip, chin, or tongue—sometimes for good (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
Slower Healing: Younger folks bounce back quicker, with fewer issues like dry sockets (ouch) and swelling.
Higher Complication Rates: Older adults have a harder time with pain, swelling and complications. Getting those teeth out sooner can help dodge these problems and speed up recovery (Dr. Wisdom Teeth).
ComplicationYounger PatientsOlder PatientsHealing TimeFasterSlowerNerve RiskLowerHigherComplication RateLowerHigherBone DensityLowerHigher
Your dentist will tell you—getting those teeth out in your late teens or early twenties is the way to go. Check out our guide on signs you need wisdom teeth removed if you're unsure.
Popping those stubborn teeth out early can make recovery smoother and less painful, which is a win for both students and young professionals. For more advice on when to take the plunge, see our article on when is the best time to remove wisdom teeth.
Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Out Without the Hassle
Numbing and Chilling Out
Nobody wants unnecessary pain or stress when getting their wisdom teeth out. So, let's talk about how we numb your pain and keep you comfy. Depending on how tricky your teeth are, you have three main choices:
Local Numbification: Just the area around your wisdom teeth gets numb. You're wide awake but won’t feel a thing.
IV Sedation: This one makes you feel super relaxed, maybe a bit dreamy, and you’ll hardly remember the procedure.
Knockout Gas (General Anesthesia): You’re out cold, absolutely no memory of what happened. This is for the super anxious or complex cases.
TypeWhat You FeelWhat You RememberLocal NumbingAwake, no painYou'll remember it allIV NapDreamy, relaxedBarely anythingKnockout GasAsleepNada
Want to prep like a pro? Check out our guide on getting ready for wisdom teeth surgery.
The Whole Shebang
Alright, let’s walk through what’s gonna happen when you get those wisdom chompers pulled. Here’s the lowdown:
Chat It Up: First up, you’ll meet with your oral surgeon. They’ll take some cool x-rays and make a game plan for plucking those teeth.
Time to Get Numb: You'll get your chosen type of anesthesia or sedation. No worries, you'll be comfy the whole time.
Snip and Yank: The surgeon makes a tiny cut in your gums to get to the tooth and bone. If your teeth are tough cookies, they may get broken into smaller bits for easy removal.
Clean and Close: Post-tooth yanking, they’ll clean up the area and might put in some stitches to help you heal faster.
Chill Zone: You’ll head to a recovery room to rest up until the numbness fades. The team will keep an eye on you and give you some tips on taking care of your mouth.
Curious about the nitty-gritty details? Peek at our full guide on what to expect before the big day.
Knowing what goes down and how we keep the pain away helps you stay chill and ready for your wisdom teeth extraction. Worried about the pain? Dig into this pain-free wisdom teeth removal guide and ease those fears.
Meet the Pros
Dr. Heath Hendrickson
Meet Dr. Heath Hendrickson, the go-to guy for wisdom teeth removal. With over 25 years in the game, he's popped out more than 250,000 teeth. That's a lot of teeth! This impressive track record means he's seen it all and handled even the toughest cases with ease.
Dr. H is also a whiz with IV sedation. He's safely sedated over 60,000 patients, ensuring they're comfy and calm during the procedure. His knack for mixing technical skill with a gentle approach makes the whole experience smoother and way less scary for patients.
Curious why getting wisdom teeth out is important? Check out our other articles for the lowdown.
Michael Call, CRNA
Then there's Michael Call, CRNA, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist who knows his stuff. Trained at the renowned Mayo Clinic, Michael brings an extra layer of safety to wisdom teeth removal.
He's handled over 100,000 sedations, working alongside Dr. Hendrickson to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Michael's expertise in anesthesia helps take the edge off the whole thing, making it a less nerve-wracking and more comfortable experience. This team effort ensures the sedation process is safe and custom-fit to each patient’s needs.
When you put your trust in Dr. H and Michael, you're in good hands for your wisdom teeth removal. Want more info on what to expect? Take a look at our articles like does wisdom teeth removal hurt and how long does wisdom teeth removal take.
Patient Care and Recovery: Wisdom Teeth Removal
Taking care of your pearly whites post-wisdom teeth removal needs some serious TLC. At Wisdom Teeth Only, we've got Jennifer Frame and Emery Killian on deck to make sure your experience is as comfy as it can be. Let's break it down for ya.
Meet Jennifer Frame
Jennifer Frame, our rockstar lead assistant since 2001, knows her stuff. With over two decades in the oral surgery game, she's the MVP you want on your side when tackling wisdom teeth removal. She's not just resting on that experience; Jennifer has piled up continuing education credits in dental anesthesia. Pretty cool, huh?
Here's what Jennifer does:
Directly assists during your surgery
Keeps an eye on your vitals
Keeps the environment as clean as a whistle
Talks you down if nerves start getting the best of you
Her calm demeanor and deep knowledge make her a godsend when you're under the knife.
Say Hi to Emery Killian
Emery Killian, a CNA you’ll want in your corner, is all about recovery. While Jennifer's got you covered in the chair, Emery’s the guy who holds your hand through the aftermath. He’s like your personal cheerleader, minus the pom-poms.
Here's his jam:
Handles your post-op care
Makes sure you’re comfortable, helping with pain
Watches out for any “uh-oh” moments
Educates you and your fam on how to take care of those puffy cheeks at home
For a heads-up before your big day, make sure you check out our prep guide on getting ready for wisdom teeth removal.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Jennifer and Emery tag-team like pros, offering stellar care from the second you walk in until you're back to enjoying solid foods. They’ve got your back pretty much covered.
Curious about what could happen if those wisdom teeth stay put? Visit our page on signs of impacted wisdom teeth or want to know how bad the pain really is?
We're here to make sure you have all the info needed. So, relax. You're in great hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.
Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!
"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."
— Aristotle, The History of Animals.
Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?
Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.
What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?
The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.
Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?
No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!
Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?
Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.
What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.
Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.
Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?
Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Will I experience pain during or after the removal?
The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.
What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?
In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?
Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!
When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?
This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!
What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?
If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.
What can be done to prevent a dry socket?
We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.
Where are you located?
We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
What are your hours?
We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.
Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
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