These are more complex and are used for teeth that are larger, oddly shaped, such as having curved roots, or not easily accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth. While a surgical extraction requires more steps, these steps are designed to make the extraction easier for the patient. These steps may include: 

• Making an incision in the gums and/or removing bone around the tooth.
• Trimming the tooth into smaller pieces. This process, called sectioning a tooth, is designed to make tooth removal fasterand more comfortable for the patient. It is used for teeth that are difficult to remove due to their size, shape, or position.

After the procedure, it’s important to follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.

WHO should get wisdom teeth removed?

Any patient that has concerns with their wisdom teeth OR any patient that wants to prevent the numerous issues that most wisdom teeth cause.   Because impacted wisdom teeth that are still forming are typically easier to remove than those that are fully developed, dentists often recommend the removal of wisdom teeth during a patient’s teenaged years.  Easier removal = easier recovery & less post-surgical complications.

WHAT are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—one in each corner of the mouth, at the top and bottom. They usually emerge between the ages of 15 and 25, a time sometimes called the “age of wisdom,” hence the name.

WHEN should they be removed?

Because impacted wisdom teeth that are still forming are typically easier to remove than those that are fully developed, dentists often recommend the removal of wisdom teeth during a patient’s teenaged years.  Easier removal = easier recovery & less post-surgical complications.

WHERE should they be removed? Where you are most comfortable!

Find Dr. Specht’s partnering clinics near you!

WHY should they be removed?

In most people, wisdom teeth become impacted because they don’t have enough room to come in properly. This can lead to problems like growing in at odd angles and pressing against other teeth, pain, cavities, infection, crowding and even the development of cysts in the jaw bone.  For these reasons, wisdom teeth are removed to avoid potential issues. (Not that wise, are they?)

Wisdom teeth that grow in straight, healthy, and without causing crowding, may not need to be removed.