Wisdom Teeth Removal
Safe extraction under sedation for maximum comfort.
This service
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Safe extraction under sedation for maximum comfort.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to develop, typically appearing between the mid-teen years and early twenties. Removal may be recommended when there is not enough space for proper eruption or when the teeth contribute to infection, cyst formation, crowding, gum disease, or damage to neighboring teeth.
Lower wisdom teeth may sometimes develop close to important nerves in the jaw, including:
• the inferior alveolar nerve, which provides sensation to the lower lip, chin, and lower teeth
• the lingual nerve, which provides sensation and taste to the tongue and inner gum tissues
When teeth are positioned near these nerves, there is an increased risk of temporary numbness or tingling after surgery. Careful evaluation with digital imaging allows Dr. Ortiz to assess this relationship and plan treatment safely.
In selected cases where roots are extremely close to a nerve, a small portion of the root may be intentionally left in place to reduce the risk of nerve injury and improve overall surgical safety.
Early evaluation—especially during the teenage years through early twenties—often allows for simpler surgery, fewer complications, and faster recovery.
Surgical Approach
Wisdom tooth removal is performed using local anesthesia and IV sedation, depending on each patient’s medical history and treatment needs.
During surgery:
• a small incision may be made to safely access the tooth
• teeth may be sectioned into smaller portions when necessary
• dissolvable sutures are placed when appropriate
• gauze is used to control bleeding
• recovery is monitored in-office until patients are ready to return home safely
Our team closely monitors patients throughout the procedure to ensure comfort and safety at every stage.
Advanced Healing Support with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) 🧬
Our practice routinely uses Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) to support healing following wisdom tooth removal when appropriate.
PRF is prepared from a small sample of the patient’s own blood at the time of surgery and contains concentrated natural growth factors that help:
• support faster soft-tissue healing
• reduce swelling and discomfort
• decrease the likelihood of dry socket
• improve bone healing
• enhance overall recovery quality
Because PRF comes from your own body, it is completely natural and biocompatible.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Patients receive detailed instructions to support safe healing and comfort following surgery.
Pain Management
Most patients recover comfortably using:
• ibuprofen (anti-inflammatory medication)
• prescription medications such as Norco, Percocet, or Tramadol when appropriate
A short course of steroids such as a Medrol Dose Pack may be recommended to help reduce swelling.
Medication for nausea such as ondansetron (Zofran) may also be prescribed when needed.
Antibiotics such as:
• Augmentin
• Penicillin
• Clindamycin
may be prescribed when clinically indicated.
Swelling and Healing Expectations ❄️
Swelling is expected after surgery and typically:
• increases during the first 3–4 days
• may not be symmetrical
• gradually improves afterward
Ice packs are recommended during the first 24 hours followed by moist heat beginning days 2–3.
Diet After Surgery 🍲
Patients typically begin with:
• clear liquids
• soft foods
• gradual return to a normal diet as healing progresses
Oral Hygiene After Surgery
Keeping the surgical areas clean is essential for proper healing.
Patients are instructed to begin gently flushing the extraction areas with the provided syringe starting the second day after surgery to prevent food from becoming trapped in the surgical sites.
Recommended rinses may include:
• chlorhexidine (Peridex)
• warm salt-water rinses
Normal Recovery Symptoms
Temporary symptoms following wisdom tooth removal may include:
• bruising
• jaw stiffness or limited opening lasting 1–3 weeks
• minor bleeding
• temporary numbness or tingling
These findings typically improve as healing progresses.
Follow-Up Care 📅
Patients are welcome to return for evaluation any weekday before 3 PM without an appointment if questions or concerns arise after surgery.
A routine follow-up visit is typically scheduled within one week.
Possible Complications
Wisdom tooth removal is a routine oral surgery procedure. However, as with any surgical treatment, certain risks may occur.
Sensory Nerve Changes
Because lower wisdom teeth may be located near important nerves, temporary numbness or tingling may affect:
• lower lip
• chin
• gums
• tongue
This may involve the inferior alveolar nerve or the lingual nerve. In most cases, these symptoms improve over time. Long-term sensory changes are uncommon.
Sinus Communication
Removal of upper wisdom teeth may occasionally create a temporary opening between the mouth and sinus. This typically heals naturally without additional treatment.
Dry Socket
Dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot is lost prematurely during healing. Risk is increased in smokers and patients taking certain hormonal medications.
Infection
Post-operative infection may occasionally occur and can require antibiotics or drainage if necessary.
Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection)
Bone infection is uncommon but may occur more frequently in patients who:
• smoke
• have poor oral hygiene
• take medications affecting bone healing
Preparing for Surgery
Before wisdom tooth removal, patients should:
• complete a clinical examination and imaging evaluation
• fast at least 6–8 hours prior to IV sedation
• take only essential medications with small sips of water
• provide a complete medical history and medication list
• notify the surgical team if pregnant or diabetic
• review anesthesia options appropriate for their medical condition
• review post-operative care instructions before the procedure
Schedule your consultation today and discover the right path for your unique transformation!
