How long does wisdom teeth removal take

Removal starts with an examination and dental imaging to show the tooth, roots, bone, and nearby structures. Local anaesthetic numbs the area; a surgical extraction may require a gum incision, removal of a small amount of bone, sectioning the tooth, irrigation, and sutures.

A fully erupted wisdom tooth may be removed through the socket, while an impacted tooth can be partly or fully covered by gum or bone. Curved roots, limited mouth opening, infection, and the need to divide the tooth can make the procedure more involved.

The procedure time depends mainly on tooth position, root anatomy, and surgical complexity.

Eat and drink according to the anaesthetic instructions, bring an accurate medication list, and arrange a ride if sedation is planned. Afterward, protect the clot by following the written instructions, avoiding smoking, and cleaning around rather than directly over the socket at first.

Keep a record of changes and bring the product, appliance, or medication list to the appointment so the clinician can assess the relevant details.

Contact the dental team for bleeding that will not settle with firm gauze pressure, worsening swelling, fever, increasing pain after initial improvement, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Do not delay assessment when symptoms are escalating, recurring, or affecting eating, sleep, mouth opening, breathing, or swallowing.

Ask whether the tooth is erupted or impacted, what imaging shows about the roots and nerves, which anaesthetic is planned, and what restrictions apply during recovery.

Ask what the examination found, which treatment is intended to address the cause, and how you will know whether the problem is improving.