Odds are that yes, you should have them removed
Your wisdom teeth may not be causing you any problems now, but that can very quickly change as they grow in more and more. They can become impacted, which is when they grow in at an angle and start to damage other teeth. When they are very close to other teeth, this can make it very difficult to get your teeth clean, which can lead to tooth decay. And, having too many teeth can, over time, cause problems with your bite, how your bottom and top teeth are aligned, and your jaw.
The good news is that the procedure to have wisdom teeth removed may take only a few minutes (although sometimes it can take longer if the tooth is still buried beneath the gums). You may be able to choose from oral sedation, which will make you calm during the procedure – this involves a pill, not an injection. You will need a ride home if you have oral sedation. Or, you may choose laughing gas, which you breathe in to keep you relaxed – this leaves your system right away, so that you can drive yourself after the procedure.
You may be given antibiotics after the procedure, and if self-dissolving stitches were used they will dissolve in a little more than a week. Your dentist will have specific instructions for you to follow, but typically, for the first few days after the extraction you’ll want to avoid hot liquids, alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activity.
How Does Your Dentist Decide If Wisdom Teeth Need Removal?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted, especially if they grow in properly and remain healthy. At Pacific Northwest Smiles, Dr. Darren Greenhalgh can examine your wisdom teeth and review dental X-rays to check their position, development, and effect on nearby teeth. If removal is recommended, he can explain the reasons and discuss what the procedure and recovery may involve.
The decision to remove wisdom teeth can bring up questions about timing, discomfort, and recovery. The Dental Marketing Secrets Podcast explores how dental teams communicate treatment recommendations and help patients understand what to expect before a procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?
Wisdom teeth are commonly evaluated between ages 17 and 25. Removal depends on their position, development, and whether they cause problems. Not everyone needs extraction.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Most patients feel significantly better within 3–7 days, although complete healing takes longer. Recovery depends on the number of teeth removed and extraction complexity.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Mill Creek, WA?
Costs depend on whether the teeth are impacted, the extraction method, sedation, and insurance coverage. Pacific Northwest Smiles can provide an estimate after an examination.
Are your wisdom teeth starting to peek through? That means it may be time to see your dentist, before any problems start to arise. Call Pacific Northwest Smiles for an appointment today, at 425-357-6400!