Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of wisdom teeth extraction, especially when medically necessary. Our knowledgeable staff will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits and discuss financing options if needed.

Not necessarily. However, if imaging shows they’re impacted, growing at an angle, or likely to cause future problems, proactive removal is often recommended. Removing wisdom teeth before complications arise typically means an easier procedure and faster recovery than waiting until problems develop.

Most patients take 2-3 days off to rest and recover, though this varies based on the complexity of your extraction and your sedation level. We’ll give you personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

You won’t feel pain during the procedure thanks to anesthesia and sedation options. Afterward, some discomfort and swelling are normal, but prescription or over-the-counter pain medication can effectively manage them. Most patients report that recovery is easier than they anticipated.

Most wisdom teeth extractions take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth being removed and their complexity. Simple extractions may be quicker, while impacted teeth may take longer.

While wisdom teeth can be removed at any age, extraction is typically easier in your late teens to early twenties when roots aren’t fully developed, and bone is less dense. However, we successfully treat patients of all ages when removal becomes necessary.

Tooth extractions are often a last resort but are sometimes necessary if you have a particularly problematic tooth, overcrowding on your jaw, or issues with wisdom teeth.

Significant Decay or Trauma

If tooth decay or damage has spread to your jawbone, gums, or surrounding teeth, in some situations, this tooth will have to be removed to preserve your oral and systemic health.

Overcrowding

Sometimes your jaw is simply too small to accommodate all your teeth. Tooth extraction helps your remaining teeth align to fit your jaw. If overcrowding goes untreated, teeth begin to twist and shift, which leads to a crooked smile. If you plan to have orthodontic work done, your dentist may opt to extract some teeth in preparation for this work.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are located in the back of your mouth and don’t erupt during toddlerhood, but come in much later. Often, wisdom teeth can’t fully erupt through your gums because of your other teeth. This is called an impaction, and it can lead to infection and irritation. Dental professionals often remove wisdom teeth to help protect your other teeth and preserve your alignment.

If you feel you might need extractions in Charleston, SC, contact our dental office today.