Wisdom Teeth Removal in Richardson, TX

Most providers recommend removing problematic wisdom teeth in the late teens or early twenties, when the roots are not yet fully formed and the bone is less dense. Earlier removal generally means a simpler procedure and faster recovery. That said, wisdom teeth can be removed at any age when symptoms or imaging warrant it.

No. Wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, properly aligned, and accessible for cleaning do not always need to be removed. The decision is based on your imaging, your symptoms, and your risk for future problems. We will give you a straightforward recommendation based on what we actually see.

The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia and should not be painful. Post-operative discomfort varies depending on the complexity of the extraction. Most patients manage well with over-the-counter pain relief. Prescription medication is provided when clinically appropriate.

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms at the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone. It is the most common complication following wisdom tooth extraction. To reduce the risk, avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or spitting forcefully for at least 72 hours after the procedure.

Not immediately. Stick to soft foods for the first several days and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or chewy that could disturb the extraction site. Good options include yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours.

Most patients recover from straightforward extractions within three to five days. Surgical extractions involving impacted teeth may take up to a week or longer. Swelling typically peaks at 48 to 72 hours and gradually improves. Full tissue healing takes several weeks, though most patients return to normal activity well before that.

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that cannot fully erupt because it is blocked by the adjacent molar, bone, or gum tissue. It may be partially visible above the gum or entirely beneath the surface. Impacted teeth are more complex to remove than fully erupted ones and carry a higher risk of infection, cyst formation, and damage to neighboring teeth if left in place.

Yes. Some degree of swelling is a normal part of the healing response. Applying an ice pack to the outside of the face for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours helps reduce swelling. Most swelling resolves within three to five days.

Contact us promptly. Signs of infection include worsening pain after the first few days, swelling that is increasing rather than improving, fever, and discharge from the extraction site. Infections following extractions are treatable but need to be addressed quickly.

Yes, and it is more common than most people expect. Let us know when you book so your provider can prepare accordingly. We explain each step before we do it, move at your pace, and make sure you are comfortable before we begin. If your anxiety is significant, ask about your options at your consultation.