Wisdom teeth removal is a standard dental procedure many individuals undergo, usually in late adolescence or early adulthood. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to emerge in the mouth, often causing problems such as overcrowding, misalignment, impaction, and infection.
If you're scheduled for wisdom teeth removal or considering this procedure, one of the most common questions is: "How long does wisdom teeth removal take?" The answer varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of your unique case and the number of teeth the dentist will need to remove.
Here's what you need to know about wisdom teeth and tooth extractions at Dr. Ryan Rush's dental office in Fort Collins, CO.
What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Remove Them?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars most people get in their late teens or early twenties. These teeth can sometimes be valuable when healthy and properly aligned, but more often, they are misaligned and require removal.
Reasons for Removing Wisdom Teeth
Some common reasons for removing wisdom teeth include:
- Impaction — Wisdom teeth are impacted when they fail to fully emerge into their expected position, remaining wholly or partially under the gumline, sometimes growing at an angle and pushing against other teeth.
- Overcrowding — Limited space in the mouth may not allow the wisdom teeth to grow properly, which can disrupt the alignment of existing teeth.
- Infection — Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create openings around the teeth that allow bacteria to grow, potentially leading to painful infections.
- Cyst Formation — Cysts can form around the new teeth, potentially damaging the jawbone, teeth, and nerves.
What to Consider Before a Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Before wisdom tooth removal, you will undergo a thorough evaluation with our experience team, which includes dental x-rays to visualize:
- The position of the wisdom teeth
- The condition of your jawbone
- The proximity of these teeth to nerves and other structures in your mouth
This assessment helps your dentist or oral surgeon plan the best approach for removal.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure: What to Expect
Step 1. Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia used will depend on the expected complexity of the wisdom teeth removal and your comfort level. Options include:
- Local Anesthesia — Local anesthesia numbs the area around the wisdom teeth. You are awake during the procedure but should feel no pain.
- Sedation Anesthesia — Sedation anesthesia is administered via an intravenous (IV) line in your arm and gives you little memory of the surgery.
- General Anesthesia — In rare cases, or based on preference, you might be put to sleep using drugs that are administered through inhalation or an IV.
Step 2. The Removal Process
- Simple Extraction — If the tooth has fully erupted and is in a favorable position, the surgeon might perform a simple extraction. This process generally takes about 20 minutes per tooth.
- Surgical Extraction — More commonly, wisdom teeth need to be surgically removed, which involves making an incision in the gums and removing bone that obstructs access to the tooth root. This process can take 30 minutes to an hour per tooth, depending on the level of impaction and the tooth's position.
Step 3. Recovery and Aftercare
Immediately after the surgery, you'll spend time in the recovery room, where you'll be monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Recovery at home typically involves managing minor bleeding, swelling, and pain. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which include:
- Medication — Pain management may involve prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter options.
- Diet — You'll likely start with a diet of soft foods and gradually return to your regular diet as healing progresses.
- Activity — Limiting strenuous activity is recommended to reduce bleeding and help the healing process.
Caring for Your Smile after Tooth Extraction
Following the wisdom tooth removal procedure, it's normal to experience some swelling, discomfort, and even minor bleeding. These symptoms are typical and generally subside within a few days. Managing these postoperative effects properly can help accelerate your recovery and prevent complications. Here are four detailed strategies to effectively handle the recovery phase:
1. Managing Pain and Swelling
- Ice Packs — Applying ice packs to the cheek area adjacent to the extraction site can reduce swelling and numb the discomfort. Throughout the first 24 hours, we recommend icing in 20 minute intervals.
- Medications — Your dentist will likely prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. It's essential to follow the dosage instructions precisely. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also be effective if prescriptions are not provided.
2. Oral Hygiene and Care 
- Gentle Cleaning — Avoid brushing directly on the extraction site for the first few days to prevent the blood clot from dislodging. You can gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after meals and before bed to help keep the area clean.
- Avoid Straws and Smoking — Using straws and smoking can create suction that might dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site, leading to increased bleeding and the painful condition known as "dry socket."
- Soft Diet — Eat a soft or liquid diet for the first few days. Foods like yogurt, smoothies, soups, and mashed potatoes will help prevent irritation to the extraction site.
3. Monitoring and Follow-Up Care
- Watch for Complications — While rare, complications such as persistent bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection (e.g., excessive swelling, pus, foul odor) should prompt immediate contact with your dentist.
- Rest — Allow your body to rest. Avoid strenuous activities for a few days following your surgery as it can lead to increased bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.
- Follow-Up Appointments — Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments so your dentist can monitor your healing and address concerns.
4. Long-Term Considerations
- Nutrition — Good nutrition is essential for healing. Ensure you get a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals to aid in your recovery.
- Hydration — Staying hydrated is crucial after surgery. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but remember to avoid using straws.
Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure a smoother and quicker recovery process, minimize discomfort, and prevent potential complications after wisdom teeth removal.
How Long Does a Wisdom Tooth Removal Take?
The duration of wisdom teeth removal can vary:
- Single Tooth — The procedure might take about 20 minutes for a simple extraction, but again, this depends on the patient's unique case.
- Multiple Teeth — If multiple teeth are impacted, the procedure can last from an hour to several hours.
- Complex Cases — The procedure can extend beyond a couple of hours in complex cases involving severe impaction or additional complications.
Overall, the average duration for wisdom teeth removal is about 1.5 to 2 hours, considering the preparation, tooth extraction, and initial recovery in the dental office.
Gentle, Pain-Free Tooth Extractions in Fort Collins, CO
At the dental office of Dr. Ryan Rush, we ensure our patients receive gentle and comprehensive care, from their initial consultation to their follow-up visit. Our goal is to make your wisdom teeth journey as easy and stress-free as possible. If you think you may need a wisdom tooth extraction, or if you have any questions, please reach out to our dental office by calling (970) 223-5393. After wisdom tooth extraction, some patients consider dental implants to replace missing molars and maintain proper alignment.