General Dentistry›Extractions & Wisdom Teeth
Extractions &
Wisdom Teeth
At a Glance
Local + sedation options
Anaesthesia
Days to 1–2 weeks
Recovery
Required beforehand
X-rays
Available
Sedation
Tooth extraction is recommended only when a tooth cannot be saved through other means — such as severe decay, infection, advanced bone loss, or a fractured tooth. Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common procedures we perform. Our team uses gentle techniques and, where desired, sedation to ensure a comfortable experience from start to finish.
When Is Extraction Necessary?
Extraction is always a last resort — we exhaust every option to save a natural tooth first. That said, there are clear situations where removing a tooth is the right decision for your long-term oral health.
- Severe decay that has destroyed too much tooth structure to restore
- Advanced periodontal disease that has caused significant bone loss
- A tooth fractured below the gumline that cannot be restored
- Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain, infection, or crowding
- Orthodontic treatment requiring space to be created
- A tooth involved in an abscess that cannot be effectively treated
Wisdom Teeth: Why They Often Need Removal
Wisdom teeth — the third molars — are the last teeth to erupt, typically between ages 17 and 25. Most people don't have sufficient jaw space for them to emerge fully and in the correct position, causing them to become impacted.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause ongoing pain and swelling, infection around the partially erupted tooth, damage to adjacent teeth, cyst formation, and difficulty keeping the area clean — increasing the risk of decay in the neighbouring tooth.
- Soft tissue impaction — tooth is below the gumline but above the bone
- Partial bony impaction — tooth is partially embedded in the jawbone
- Full bony impaction — tooth is completely encased in bone
Digital X-rays allow us to precisely assess the position and angulation of your wisdom teeth before recommending removal — ensuring the most minimally invasive approach possible.
What to Expect During Your Extraction
Your comfort and safety are our priority throughout the entire process. We conduct a thorough examination with X-rays, explain the procedure fully, and ensure you are completely numb before we begin.
- Comprehensive X-ray assessment to plan the procedure
- Local anaesthesia applied — we wait until you are fully comfortable
- Sedation options available for anxious patients or complex cases
- Gentle technique minimizes trauma and supports faster healing
- Detailed aftercare instructions provided before you leave
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a simple extraction is typically quick — most patients feel normal within a few days. Wisdom tooth extractions may require a little more recovery time depending on the complexity of the case.
- Keep gauze firmly on the extraction site for the first 45–60 minutes
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days — avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods
- Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing for the first 24–48 hours
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean
- Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or swelling worsening after 48 hours
Common
Questions
Is tooth extraction painful?
We use local anaesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or movement, but not pain. After the anaesthesia wears off, mild soreness for a few days is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long does it take to heal after an extraction?
The initial gum tissue healing takes 1–2 weeks. The socket underneath continues to fill in with bone over several months — though you won't feel this process. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days of a simple extraction.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged before the area heals. To prevent it: don't use straws, avoid smoking, don't spit forcefully, and avoid vigorous rinsing for the first 24–48 hours.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No — not all wisdom teeth require removal. If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, properly aligned, healthy, and easy to clean, they may be fine to keep. We assess each case individually and only recommend extraction when there is a clear clinical reason.
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Get Started?
Book your appointment at Keheewin Family Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
