Wisdom Tooth Removal

Your Wisdom Teeth Don’t Need to Be Wise to Be Trouble

Most people grow four wisdom teeth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. These molars often don’t fit comfortably in the mouth and can get in at the wrong angle, stay stuck under the gums, or push other teeth out of alignment.

When the dentist identifies a problem with wisdom teeth, removing them early helps you avoid:

Crowding and shifting of other teeth
Pain, swelling, or jaw stiffness
Gum infections or cysts
Tooth decay in hard-to-clean areas
Damage to nearby teeth or nerves

The doctor acts fast when he sees signs of trouble. Removing the teeth early gives you the easiest, smoothest recovery.

Step-by-Step: Your Wisdom Tooth Removal Experience at Breckenridge Dental Group

Step 1: Make Your Appointment

Call us or request an appointment online. Our front desk staff welcomes you with friendly service and flexible scheduling. We offer same-day appointments whenever possible if you’re in pain or experiencing swelling.

Step 2: Arrive and Settle In

Our team greets you with warmth and hospitality when you arrive at Breckenridge Dental Group.

Help yourself to:

Hot beverages like coffee or tea
Ice-cold water
Access to free Wi-Fi while you wait
A cozy lounge designed to put you at ease

We aim to create a calm, peaceful environment where patients of all ages feel relaxed.

Step 3: Your Pre-Treatment Consultation

The dentist performs a full exam, takes digital X-rays, and checks the position of your wisdom teeth. He clearly explains the findings, outlines treatment options, and answers your questions.

During this time, we offer:

Glasses to shield your eyes during the exam
Chapstick to keep your lips comfortable during longer procedures
Stress balls if you’re feeling a little tense

We never rush this step. We make sure you understand everything before moving forward.

Step 4: Get Comfortable Before the Procedure

Our team prepares you with comfort-focused care when it’s time for removal.

To help you relax, we provide:

Blankets and pillows so you stay warm and supported
Soothing headphones if you’d like music during the procedure
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for a calm, anxiety-free experience

The doctor walks you through each step of the process before beginning. He makes sure you feel fully numb and ready.

Step 5: Wisdom Tooth Removal

The dentist gently removes the tooth or teeth, using a precise and efficient technique. If the tooth is impacted or partially erupted, he may need to make a small incision or remove a small amount of bone. You won’t feel pain, but you might sense some pressure.

The procedure usually takes less than an hour, depending on how many teeth you need removed.

Step 6: Post-Op Care and Instructions

After your procedure, we help you begin a smooth recovery. The doctor gives you detailed aftercare instructions, including:

How to manage swelling
What to eat and avoid
How to keep the area clean
When to resume regular activity

Before you leave, we’ll give you:

A goodie bag with aftercare items and instructions
Fun prizes (especially for our younger patients)
A follow-up plan so we can check your healing

We also remain available for any post-op concerns you may have.

Step 7: At-Home Recovery

Healing usually takes a few days. During this time, we recommend:

Eating soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and soup
Avoiding straws, smoking, and heavy lifting
Using cold compresses to reduce swelling

Rest, hydrate, and follow the dentist’s advice. Most patients feel much better within 48 to 72 hours. If you have questions, call us anytime.

Signs You Might Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

You don’t need to feel pain before something goes wrong. Here are four early warning signs the dentist looks for:

Swelling or redness around the gums in the back of your mouth
Jaw stiffness or pain while opening and closing
Crowded teeth or recent shifting in your smile
Recurring infections or unpleasant taste near the back molars

The doctor can confirm whether your wisdom teeth need to come out. Preventive removal may save you future discomfort, even if they haven’t caused problems yet.

Healing Right, Smiling Bright

Recovery matters just as much as the procedure itself. The dentist gives you all the tools and guidance you need for a smooth healing process. Most patients return to regular activity within a few days and enjoy long-term benefits like:

A better bite and more room for other teeth
Reduced risk of infection or decay
Less pressure on the jaw joints
Improved long-term oral health