Wisdom Teeth Removal: What You Should Know
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, and they are often removed because they erupt at an awkward angle, become impacted, crowd neighbouring teeth, or sit so far back that they are difficult to keep clean. Extraction is usually done under local anaesthetic, takes roughly 20 to 45 minutes per tooth, and most patients feel much better within 3 to 5 days. Soft tissue takes about two weeks to heal, and avoiding straws and smoking during that time helps prevent dry socket.
Orion Dental Team
Led by Dr. Fahimay Naqvi
Wisdom teeth— your third molars — are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging around age 20. Some people's wisdom teeth come in without problems, but it is common for them to cause complications ranging from impaction and crowding to decay and infection. When that happens, wisdom teeth removal becomes one of the most commonly recommended dental procedures.
At Orion Dental in Scarborough and Milton, we perform wisdom tooth extractions regularly and ensure every patient understands exactly what to expect. This guide covers the full process from start to finish.
Common
to need wisdom teeth removed
~20
typical age of eruption
20–45 min
per tooth extraction time
3–5 days
typical initial recovery period
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Come Out
The human jaw has gradually become smaller over thousands of years of evolution, but wisdom teeth continue to develop in most people. The result? There is frequently not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to erupt properly. When they cannot emerge correctly, a range of problems can follow:
Common Reasons for Extraction
- Impaction — the tooth is trapped below the gum line or wedged against another tooth
- Partial eruption creating a flap of gum tissue that traps bacteria and food
- Growing in at an angle that pushes against the second molar
- Cavities forming in a location that is impractical to restore with a filling
- Cyst or tumour development around an unerupted tooth
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth, potentially undoing orthodontic work
Not Everyone Needs Extraction
If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, properly aligned, healthy, and easy to clean, your dentist may recommend leaving them in place and monitoring them at your regular checkups. Extraction is recommended only when there is a clear clinical reason.
Preparing for Your Extraction
Proper preparation makes the procedure smoother and recovery faster. Here is what to expect before your wisdom teeth are removed:
Consultation & X-Rays
Your dentist reviews panoramic X-rays to assess the position, root development, and proximity to nerves for each wisdom tooth.
Medical History Review
Disclose all medications, supplements, and health conditions. This helps your dentist plan anaesthesia and aftercare safely.
Arrange Transportation
If you are receiving sedation beyond local anaesthesia, arrange for someone to drive you home after the appointment.
Plan Time Off
Most patients benefit from 1 to 3 days off work or school. Stock up on soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and applesauce.
What Happens During the Extraction
The thought of having teeth removed can feel daunting, but modern extraction techniques are far more comfortable than most patients expect. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:
The Extraction Process Step by Step
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia is administered to completely numb the surgical area. Laughing gas or other sedation is added if requested.
Access the Tooth
If the tooth is impacted, a small incision is made in the gum tissue. Bone covering the tooth may be carefully removed.
Section & Remove
The tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier, less invasive removal. Each piece is carefully extracted.
Clean & Close
The site is thoroughly cleaned of debris, then stitched closed with dissolvable sutures. Gauze is placed to control bleeding.
The entire procedure typically takes 20 to 45 minutes per tooth. If all four wisdom teeth are being removed at once, the appointment usually lasts about 60 to 90 minutes total. You should feel no pain during the procedure — only pressure and movement. If you feel anxious about dental work, ask about our laughing gas sedation option, which keeps you calm and relaxed throughout.
Need Your Wisdom Teeth Evaluated?
Our team will assess your situation and explain your options clearly — no pressure, just honest guidance.
Recovery: What to Expect and How to Heal Faster
Recovery is the part patients are most curious — and anxious — about. The good news is that with proper aftercare, most people feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days. Here is a timeline of what to expect:
| Timeframe | What to Expect | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| First 24 hours | Minor bleeding, swelling begins, grogginess from sedation | Rest, apply ice, bite gently on gauze, take prescribed medication |
| Days 2–3 | Swelling peaks, jaw stiffness, mild to moderate discomfort | Continue ice, salt water rinses, soft foods only |
| Days 4–7 | Swelling subsides, discomfort reduces, stitches dissolve | Gradually reintroduce firmer foods, keep rinsing |
| Weeks 2–4 | Soft tissue mostly healed, extraction sites closing | Resume normal diet, continue gentle oral hygiene |
| Months 3–6 | Bone fully fills in the extraction sites | Return to full activity and regular dental care |
Essential Aftercare Tips
Do's and Don'ts
- DO rest with your head elevated for the first 48 hours
- DO apply ice packs to the outside of your cheek — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off
- DO rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
- DO eat soft, cool foods like yoghurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes
- DON'T use a straw — the suction can dislodge the blood clot
- DON'T smoke or use tobacco products for at least 72 hours
- DON'T eat hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until your dentist clears you
- DON'T brush directly on the extraction sites for the first few days
Watch for Dry Socket
Dry socket is the most common complication after extraction. It occurs when the blood clot at the surgical site is dislodged, exposing bone and nerves. Signs include severe throbbing pain starting 2 to 4 days after surgery and a bad taste. If you suspect dry socket, contact our emergency dental service immediately.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you have been told you need your wisdom teeth removed or you are experiencing symptoms and want an evaluation, our team at Orion Dental is here to help. We provide thorough assessments, clear explanations of your options, and comfortable tooth extractions at both of our locations.
Schedule a consultation at our Scarborough or Milton office. Book an appointment or call 416-291-0306 (Scarborough) / 905-636-9770 (Milton).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about wisdom teeth removal
Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth often need removal because they grow in at improper angles, become impacted, or cause crowding. Even when they erupt normally, their position at the back of the mouth makes them difficult to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?
Most dentists recommend evaluation in the late teens to early twenties, when the roots are not yet fully developed and the bone is less dense. However, extraction can be performed safely at any age when problems arise.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days. Complete healing of the extraction sites takes about 2 weeks for soft tissue and several months for the bone to fully fill in. Following aftercare instructions closely will speed recovery.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Yes, in most cases. Local anaesthesia completely numbs the area so you feel no pain. Laughing gas (nitrous oxide) sedation is available if you feel anxious. You remain conscious but deeply relaxed throughout.
What is dry socket and how do I prevent it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing bone and nerves. To prevent it, avoid using straws, smoking, spitting forcefully, and eating hard or crunchy foods for the first few days after surgery.
Can I go back to work the next day?
Many patients return to desk work or school within 1 to 2 days. However, if your job involves physical labour or heavy lifting, your dentist may recommend 3 to 5 days off to reduce the risk of complications.
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