Is the wisdom tooth removal process painful?

To keep you relaxed and comfortable, we use a combination of local anesthesia and sedation during the procedure. Some discomfort is normal after wisdom tooth removal, but it’s typically well managed with a combination of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Swelling often peaks around day three or four and gradually improves over the following few days. Most patients start to feel significantly better within a week.

How long does a wisdom tooth procedure usually take?

The average timeframe for a wisdom tooth extraction is approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the number of teeth being addressed and their positioning. Single tooth removal may require less time, while more complex situations could extend the duration. If you're having IV sedation, plan to stay about 30 extra minutes after your procedure to wake up and recover. You'll need someone to drive you home, and they’re welcome to sit with you during the recovery period. We will also go over your postoperative instructions again during this time and show you how to use and replace the gauze that will be placed over the extraction sites.

What is the recovery time like after wisdom teeth removal?

Most individuals recover from wisdom teeth removal within three to five days. The first few days generally involve some swelling and adjustment, which improve progressively. Following your post-operative instructions will help with a smooth healing process.

What should I be mindful of after the procedure?

After wisdom tooth removal, it's best to avoid drinking through straws, vigorous rinsing, smoking, and consuming hard or chewy foods. Additionally, limiting physical exertion for several days is recommended for optimal healing.

Do I need a follow-up appointment after wisdom tooth removal?

You will have a follow-up appointment approximately one week following your appointment. If you notice prolonged pain, swelling, or unusual symptoms, reach out to your dentist.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure | Seattle, WA, Oral Surgeon

The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process with Maring Surgical & Dental Implant Center

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental treatment that many individuals experience as they reach their late teens and early twenties. At Maring Surgical and Dental Implant Center, located in downtown Seattle, WA, we aim to provide exceptional oral surgery care, ensuring your comfort and well-being throughout the entire process. Understanding the wisdom teeth removal procedure can help prepare you for treatment with confidence.

If you need your wisdom teeth removed or have questions about the extraction process, contact Maring Surgical and Dental Implant Center at 206-343-7500 to schedule your consultation. Our dedicated oral surgeon in Seattle, WA, is here to guide you through every step. Our state-of-the-art facility welcomes patients from Seattle, Bellevue, Mercer Island, and Kirkland.

The Importance of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal helps prevent potential complications associated with impacted teeth, which can affect tooth alignment, gum health, and adjacent teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may not have enough space to grow properly, which can lead to discomfort and other oral health concerns. This common surgical procedure is best performed by an experienced oral surgeon, like Dr. Thomas Maring.

The Maring Difference for Wisdom Teeth Removal

When it comes to wisdom teeth extraction, experience and expertise make all the difference. Dr. Thomas S. Maring brings over 25 years of specialized surgical knowledge to every procedure, ensuring optimal outcomes for his patients in the Seattle area. As a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a consistent recipient of “Seattle’s Top Dentist” recognition, Dr. Maring has established himself as a leading authority in wisdom teeth removal. His comprehensive medical and dental training, including his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry from Oregon Health Science University and Medical Degree from UCLA Medical School, provides him with a unique perspective on complex oral surgery cases.

Each wisdom tooth extraction is carefully planned using state-of-the-art imaging technology and Dr. Maring’s refined surgical technique. Whether you’re dealing with impacted wisdom teeth, partially erupted molars, or complex cases requiring specialized attention, Dr. Maring’s methodical approach ensures a comfortable experience and optimal healing.

Contact our downtown Seattle dental office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Maring and experience the difference that true surgical expertise can make in your care.

Assessing Your Wisdom Teeth

Oral Examination

Your journey begins with an in-depth oral examination conducted by our dental and oral surgery experts. During this assessment, we evaluate the positioning of each wisdom tooth in the jawbone as well as the surrounding gum tissue, determining whether extraction is necessary. Early intervention typically occurs during the teen years, allowing us to monitor your dental development closely.

X-Ray Analysis

Dental X-rays are utilized to identify impacted wisdom teeth, partially impacted wisdom teeth, or erupted wisdom teeth and any associated complications. Several types of X-rays may be utilized:

Panoramic X-rays: Provide a broad view of your mouth, including all your teeth and their positions.
Periapical X-rays: Focus on one or two teeth at a time, showing the tooth’s root and surrounding bone.

This imaging allows our Seattle dental team to formulate an effective treatment plan to ensure the safe and thorough removal of your wisdom teeth.

Personalized Treatment Plan

With the data collected from your examination and X-rays, a specialized treatment plan is developed for you. Our priority is crafting the best possible approach to manage your care, considering your unique needs and comfort level.

Anesthesia Options for Wisdom Teeth Surgery

Making sure you’re comfortable is vital during your wisdom teeth removal. Before your procedure, our Seattle dental team will discuss various sedation methods suitable for your situation. Common choices include:

Local Anesthesia: Applied through injections to numb the immediate area around the extraction site. You’ll remain awake and alert during the procedure, but you won’t feel any pain.
IV Sedation: Administered via IV, helping you feel relaxed and less aware of the treatment without losing consciousness. You might not remember much about the procedure afterward.
General Anesthesia: Reserved for complex cases, where you’ll be completely unconscious and unaware throughout the surgery.

Choosing the right type of anesthesia is based on the complexity of your situation, your medical history, and your personal comfort during the extraction.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

Anesthesia Administration

The procedure commences with the administration of anesthesia to ensure your comfort and manage pain levels effectively. Dr. Maring or another member of our Seattle team will provide instructions to follow before receiving sedation. Following your dentist’s guidance is crucial.

Tooth Extraction

Your oral surgeon will begin the extraction process by making incisions in the gum tissue if needed to expose the tooth and the underlying bone. If the tooth is impacted, they will remove any bone obstructing access. Once successfully extracted, the area will be cleaned to eliminate any remaining debris.

Suturing and Gauze Placement

Following the extraction, sutures may be placed to re-adapt the tissue and promote healing. A gauze is then placed over the surgical site.

Post-Operative Care

Post-operative care is important to your recovery following wisdom teeth removal. As part of your healing process, it’s essential to follow our recommended guidelines. Written Post-Operative Care instructions will be given to you and your ride if you have sedation during recovery. In general, it is important to stay well hydrated and rest following surgery, avoid dairy products, do not drink through a straw, and do not smoke.

Our Seattle dental team will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your situation, ensuring a smooth and effective recovery. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, give us a call at 206-343-7500.

I have complete confidence in Dr Maring; he is efficient, thorough in explaining things, & excellent at what he does. I am so thankful for him & his staff! for him & his staff.

— Lucille N.

Everyone in the office was helpful, skillful, and efficient. I was treated with compassion and professionalism. My questions and concerns got immediate responses. I was so impressed! In addition, I experienced minimal pain after my tooth extraction.

— Marianne C.

From the time I first called to make my appointment, walked in the office and met with Dr. Maring, I was treated professionally and respectfully.

— Theresa L.

I have been a patient of Dr. Susan Maring’s for more than 20 years. When I have needed the help of a dentist, she knew just the right people. She demonstrates tremendous commitment to her patients. I am lucky to have her in my life.

— Susan C.

The treatment has been excellent and Dr Maring is thorough and thoughtful in his approach. I especially like the time he spent educating me on my condition and treatment options. Very kind and responsive office staff.

— Doug B.