What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Twin Cities Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we know that the thought of wisdom teeth removal can feel overwhelming. But with the right team and the right information, it doesn’t have to be. Our experienced oral surgeons — Dr. Jason E. Jenny, Dr. Michael J. Downie, Dr. Christopher E. Koehn, Dr. Ketan Patel, and Dr. Matthew Yekikian — are here to ensure your procedure is as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you’re preparing for wisdom teeth removal in the Twin Cities area, here’s what you can expect.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often cause problems because they may become impacted (trapped beneath the gums), crowd other teeth, or emerge at odd angles. Common reasons for wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Pain or swelling
- Infection
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Development of cysts or tumors
- Preventive removal before problems arise
Removing wisdom teeth early—often during the late teens or early twenties—can help avoid more complex procedures later.
Your Consultation: The First Step
Before your wisdom teeth removal, you’ll meet with one of our highly trained oral surgeons at one of our six Twin Cities locations. During this consultation, we will:
- Review your dental and medical history
- Take digital X-rays or 3D imaging
- Evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth
- Discuss your anesthesia options (such as I.V. sedation or general anesthesia)
Our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that ensures your comfort and safety every step of the way.
The Day of Surgery: What Happens
Wisdom teeth removal is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll go home the same day. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Anesthesia Administration: Depending on your treatment plan, you’ll receive local anesthesia, sedation anesthesia, or general anesthesia. Our anesthesia-trained assistants and professional nurses will monitor you closely throughout the procedure.
- Tooth Removal: Your oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue if necessary, remove any bone blocking access to the tooth root, and extract the wisdom tooth. If needed, the tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Stitches: If stitches are needed, they are usually the dissolvable kind and will disappear within a few days.
- Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll rest in our recovery area until you’re ready to go home with a responsible adult.
Aftercare Instructions: Supporting a Smooth Recovery
Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is key to a quick and comfortable recovery. Here are a few essential tips:
- Manage Swelling and Discomfort: Apply ice packs to the face and take prescribed medications as directed.
- Modify Your Diet: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
- Rest and Hydrate: Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated—avoid using straws, which can dislodge blood clots.
- Oral Hygiene: Follow gentle rinsing instructions to keep your mouth clean without disturbing the surgical sites.
Most patients recover within a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Why Choose Twin Cities Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery?
Choosing a skilled oral surgeon makes a difference. At Twin Cities Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we offer:
- Board-certified surgeons with extensive experience in wisdom teeth extraction
- State-of-the-art facilities across Apple Valley, Hastings, Maplewood, Orono, Roseville, and Woodbury
- Advanced sedation options to maximize your comfort
- Compassionate, patient-centered care from consultation through recovery
When you choose our team, you’re choosing expertise, safety, and personalized attention.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation Today
If you or your child are experiencing pain or have been advised to remove your wisdom teeth, trust the specialists at Twin Cities Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient Twin Cities locations and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.
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