Symptoms to watch for
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that usually emerge between the late teens and mid-twenties. Located at the very back of the mouth, they can sometimes grow in smoothly, but more often, they create complications. While some people never develop wisdom teeth, for those who do, it’s important to know when removal might be necessary.
- Teeth are coming in crooked or at an angle
- Crowding or lack of space in the jaw
- Partially erupted teeth that trap food and bacteria
- Difficulty cleaning, leading to decay or gum problems
- Impacted teeth that become infected or painful
Reasons to remove wisdom teeth include:
The wisdom tooth removal process
Wisdom teeth can often be removed right in your dentist’s office through a simple extraction, or they may require a routine surgical procedure performed by an oral surgeon. After a full examination and dental imaging, your dentist will determine the most appropriate type of removal based on how the teeth are positioned and whether they are impacted. Depending on your situation, you might choose to have all four wisdom teeth removed in a single visit or spread the procedure out over multiple appointments for a more gradual approach.
If you’re considering wisdom tooth removal, connecting with a trusted Dentist in Vancouver British Columbia can help you understand the process, explore your options, and make informed decisions based on your personal needs.
Exam and evaluation
We begin with a comprehensive examination and dental X rays to assess how your wisdom teeth are growing and whether they’re causing, or likely to cause, issues. Based on the position and condition of your teeth, we’ll determine whether a simple or surgical extraction is needed.
The removal procedure
Depending on your preferences and the professional recommendation of your doctor, we will use local anesthesia, sedation, or a combination to keep you comfortable. Teeth are removed as gently as possible using minimally invasive techniques to reduce tissue trauma and speed up healing. Some patients have all four teeth removed in a single appointment, while others may choose to stagger the extractions.
Aftercare and recovery
You’ll receive clear aftercare instructions to guide your recovery. We may suggest bringing a friend or family member to help you get home safely. Rest is essential for healing, and we’re always available to answer any questions you may have as you recover.
Cost of wisdom tooth removal in Richmond
The cost depends on whether the extraction is simple or surgical and whether you have insurance. Here’s a general overview:
- With insurance: Simple extractions often range from $100 to $200+ per tooth
- Without insurance: You can expect $200 to $600+ per tooth, depending on the complexity
Types of extractions:
- Simple extraction: When the tooth is fully erupted and easy to remove. Often done by a general dentist using local anesthesia.
- Surgical extraction: Needed for impacted teeth or those with complex roots or alignment. This type of removal requires more expertise and typically costs more.
Since every case is unique, a consultation and X ray are necessary to give you a precise treatment plan and cost estimate.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. They only need to be removed if they are causing pain, becoming impacted, or affecting your other teeth. Some people live comfortably with their wisdom teeth for years without any issues.
Today’s dental techniques focus heavily on patient comfort. With the use of local anesthesia or sedation, most patients feel very little discomfort during the procedure. We also provide pain management and aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
You can eat about an hour after the procedure, once you’ve removed the gauze. Start with soft, cool foods and avoid hot dishes and drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided. Generally, avoid smoking, using straws, or rinsing vigorously for the first 24 hours. Stick to soft foods, rest, and avoid physical activity. Keep the area clean and don’t touch the site with your fingers or tongue.
Most people need about three to four days of rest. Full healing can take up to two weeks, but discomfort usually fades quickly. Be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations to promote proper healing.
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