Wisdom Teeth
Extraction

Wisdom tooth removal is a type of oral surgery that involves extracting the third molars, known as the wisdom teeth. When you visit Nest to have your wisdom teeth evaluated, our Vancouver dentist, Dr. Sonia Sahi, will perform a thorough exam. We’ll also do any necessary diagnostic testing, including digital x-rays and cone beam CT imaging. This will let her determine if your wisdom teeth are currently causing any complications or will cause them in the future. If they do pose a problem, she may recommend having your wisdom teeth extracted.

While Dr. Sahi can perform a wisdom tooth extraction with just a local anesthetic, many patients choose sedation for the procedure. Dr. Sahi will help you decide on the best form of sedation for your needs.

Once you’re numb and/or sedated, Dr. Sahi will make a small incision above the wisdom tooth to create a pathway for it to come out. Depending on your case, she may need to remove bony obstructions or break the tooth into smaller pieces first for easier removal.

After gently extracting your wisdom tooth, or wisdom teeth, she’ll clean the area and, if needed, use dissolvable stitches to close the site.

When proper eruption isn’t possible, the early extraction of wisdom teeth can be extremely beneficial. Removing impacted wisdom teeth before their root structure is fully developed will mean a much easier procedure. This is why having the wisdom teeth evaluated in the teenage years is ideal.

Some patients show symptoms of wisdom tooth complications as early as 13 years old, while others might not have complications until their early 20s. Visit your dentist at the first sign of an issue. After age 30, complications tend to be more frequent. Additionally, patients in their teens and early 20s generally heal faster from wisdom teeth removal and have fewer postoperative issues.

No. Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be extracted and, in fact, some people don’t even get wisdom teeth. For those who do get them, if the wisdom teeth fully erupt, are properly aligned and the gum tissue is healthy, removal usually isn’t necessary.

• The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal usually only lasts a few days. During this time, you should rest to encourage healing. If you received sedation, you’ll probably feel sleepy for the rest of the day after your surgery.
• If you’re given antibiotics, corticosteroids or pain medication, take them as prescribed.
• Bleeding at the extraction site is completely normal. Since the blood mixes with your saliva, it can seem a lot worse than it really is. To control bleeding, gently bite down on sterile gauze pads, changing them as needed. Try to keep your head elevated on pillows instead of lying flat.
• To reduce swelling, hold an ice pack on your cheek in the area of the extraction for several minutes at a time. Do this for up to 24 hours after your procedure. On day two, you can switch it up to moist heat. Hold a warm, moist washcloth on your cheek as needed.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours after surgery. After that, you can gently rinse with an oral rinse (if we prescribed one for you) or warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water).
• If Dr. Sahi gave you an irrigating syringe, you can start irrigating the extraction sites on the third day after surgery. Follow the frequency recommended in your post-op instructions.
• After surgery, start your post-op diet with clear liquids like broth. Then, you can gradually transition to soft foods, such as yogurt, protein shakes, Jell-O and smoothies. Once your body feels ready, you can resume your normal diet.

• Dr. Sonia Sahi is experienced in wisdom tooth removal in patients of all ages.
• We offer sedation options and use the latest monitoring equipment to monitor you throughout the entire procedure.
• Our dentist and team members are certified in CPR and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).
• With enclosed operatories, medical-grade HEPA filter air purifiers, negative pressure isolation and the highest level of infection control and sterilization, we create a safe environment for you.
• Nest has modern dental technology, including low-dose digital x-rays and cone beam CT imaging for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Our gorgeous dental studio has spa-like touches and amenities for your comfort.
• We believe in completely transparent pricing, so there will be no hidden fees or surprises. We can work with you to determine your insurance coverage and we have flexible financing options to suit your budget.