parallax background

Wisdom Teeth Removal Kelowna

Kelowna Wisdom Teeth Removal

Tooth Extractions

Even with proper care, sometimes teeth need to be removed. This can occur for various reasons, including deep cavities, severe bone loss, infection or a cracked tooth. Teeth extraction is a last resort, and your dental professional will explain all the options available to you so that you may make an informed decision about removing a tooth. Generally, having a tooth extracted is a fairly simple procedure that involves loosening the tooth within the socket before removing it from the mouth. The entire procedure is performed under local anesthetic, and our philosophy of open communication with our patients means that we will be there for you to guide you through the whole process.

Post Operative Instructions

Oral sedation is available for our patients who may feel some anxiety about this type of procedure. Please discuss your sedation and pain medication needs with your dental professional before your dental extraction appointment.

Find Out More
Dental Extractions & Wisdom Teeth

Will I Need My Wisdom Teeth Out?

Not everyone will need to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it will depend on your individual case. An assessment by Dr. Sanders will determine if there is enough space for your wisdom teeth to erupt naturally. During this appointment, a panoramic x-ray is taken to assess the position and development of your wisdom teeth. Dr. Sanders will review the image with you, explain the wisdom tooth extraction, and discuss your options. We recommend an assessment and, if necessary, removal of impacted wisdom teeth during the teenage years because younger patients typically heal faster.

What Are The Consequences Of Leaving Them?

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause issues for your adjacent teeth, particularly the second molar. This can result in bone loss, deep cavities that are difficult to treat, or even tooth removal of both the second molar and the impacted wisdom tooth. Additionally, gum disease may develop, especially if the gum tissue surrounding the impacted tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This could lead to serious pain and increase the risk of bacterial infection.

At Knox Mountain Dentistry, we will review all options regarding the removal of wisdom teeth with you and address any concerns you may have. Our priority is to create an environment of optimum safety and comfort for every patient.

Understanding the Timing of Wisdom Teeth

Most people typically develop four wisdom teeth, one in each back corner of the mouth, and they typically start appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth don’t always cause problems, they often lack the space to emerge correctly, leading to impacted wisdom teeth. When this happens, it can result in discomfort, infection, or other dental complications.

FAQs About Dental Extractions & Wisdom Teeth

1Will getting a wisdom tooth removed hurt?
Wisdom tooth removal is done with anesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself. After the anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to feel soreness or mild discomfort for a few days. Your dentist will give you clear instructions on pain relief and care to help you stay comfortable as you heal.
2Can I eat normally after an extraction?
Right after an extraction, it’s best to stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or applesauce. Chewing hard or crunchy foods too soon can irritate the extraction site and slow healing. Once your dentist gives the ok, you can slowly return to your normal diet as you feel comfortable.
3What should I do if the extraction site bleeds after the procedure?
Some light bleeding after a tooth extraction is common and expected. Your dentist will give you gauze to bite on to control the bleeding, and changing it as instructed usually helps stop it. If the bleeding is heavy or doesn’t slow down after a few hours, call your dental team right away for guidance.
4Can wisdom tooth removal affect nearby teeth?
The goal of removing wisdom teeth is to protect the health of the surrounding teeth, not harm them. In some cases, removing a problematic wisdom tooth can relieve pressure and reduce the risk of decay or infection on nearby teeth. Your dentist will carefully plan the extraction to avoid any unnecessary impact on your other teeth.
5How can I reduce swelling after an extraction?
Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling during the first 24 hours. Using ice in intervals, like 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off, is often recommended. Staying hydrated and resting with your head elevated also supports a smoother recovery.
6Can infections happen after a tooth extraction?
Although not common, infections can occur if bacteria enter the extraction site before it heals. Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling that gets worse after a few days, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth. If you notice any of these, contact your dentist promptly so they can assess and treat the area.

Call us today to book a consultation with Dr. Sanders and learn more about the procedure. Whether your wisdom teeth are causing issues right now or you’re being proactive, our team will guide and support you through every step.

Contact Us