7034 Hospital Drive, Dublin, OH 43016
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Come Out
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. By the time they arrive, most mouths simply don't have enough room to accommodate them properly, which is why wisdom teeth so often become impacted, crowded or misaligned rather than erupting normally like the rest of your teeth.
Left in place, problematic wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, damage to neighboring teeth and even cysts around the impacted tooth. Our team evaluates your wisdom teeth through exams and X-rays to determine whether removal is necessary, and if so, provides safe, comfortable extraction to prevent these complications before they start.
Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation
Understanding Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Not all wisdom teeth cause problems, but impaction is common enough that most patients will need at least some form of evaluation as these teeth develop. An impacted wisdom tooth is one that doesn't have enough room to erupt fully or in proper alignment, sometimes remaining fully trapped beneath the gumline, and other times emerging only partially.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are particularly prone to problems, since the partial opening in the gum tissue creates an easy entry point for bacteria, food particles and infection, while the awkward angle often makes the area difficult to clean effectively even with careful brushing. Fully impacted wisdom teeth, meanwhile, can press against neighboring molars, potentially causing crowding, damage to adjacent tooth roots, or the development of a cyst around the impacted tooth over time.
Who Needs Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended if you have:
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or unable to erupt properly
- Pain, swelling or tenderness near the back of your jaw
- Partially erupted wisdom teeth that are difficult to keep clean
- Crowding or shifting affecting your other teeth
- Signs of infection, decay or gum disease around a wisdom tooth
- A cyst or other abnormality identified on X-rays near a wisdom tooth
Not every patient needs their wisdom teeth removed. Some erupt fully and function normally without ever causing problems. Dr. Dennison will monitor your wisdom teeth through regular exams and X-rays to determine whether and when removal is the right recommendation for you.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Removing wisdom teeth is a well-established procedure, and our team takes care to keep you comfortable and informed at every step.
Evaluation and X-Rays
Anesthesia and Sedation Options
Tooth Removal
Site Closure
What to Expect from Your Procedure
Cost
Wisdom teeth removal costs vary depending on the number of teeth and complexity. A detailed estimate is provided during your consultation.
Procedure Duration
Most wisdom teeth extractions take 45–60 minutes, though time may vary for impacted teeth.
Pain Level
You won’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild swelling and soreness afterward are normal and manageable.
Benefits of Timely Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Prevents crowding of surrounding teeth – Removing problematic wisdom teeth helps protect the alignment of your other teeth.
- Reduces the risk of infection – Partially erupted wisdom teeth are especially prone to trapping bacteria and food debris, increasing infection risk.
- Avoids damage to neighboring molars – Impacted wisdom teeth can press against and damage the roots of adjacent teeth if left untreated.
- Prevents cyst formation – In some cases, impacted teeth can lead to the development of a cyst around the tooth, which can affect the surrounding jawbone.
- Easier recovery at a younger age – Wisdom teeth removal tends to be more straightforward and recovery quicker when performed before the roots are fully developed.
- Eliminates a recurring source of pain – Many patients experience ongoing discomfort from wisdom teeth that resolves entirely once the teeth are removed.
Don’t Wait for Wisdom Teeth to Cause Problems
Whether your wisdom teeth are already causing discomfort or we've flagged a concern during a routine exam, addressing them early often means a simpler procedure and easier recovery.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation