Wisdom Teeth Removal in Poway, CA

What wisdom teeth are

Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth, and they are usually the last teeth to come in. Many people develop them in the late teens or early twenties. Some wisdom teeth come in fully and cause no problems, while others do not have enough room and become impacted, meaning they are blocked by bone or other teeth. Whether a wisdom tooth needs to be removed depends on the individual case.

Not every wisdom tooth has to be extracted. When a wisdom tooth is healthy, well positioned, and can be cleaned properly, it may be monitored rather than removed. A dental examination with imaging is needed to determine what is appropriate for you.

When removal may be recommended

Removal is often considered when a wisdom tooth is causing problems or is likely to in the future. Because these teeth are far back and hard to clean, they can be more prone to decay and gum issues. Your dentist weighs the position of the tooth, your symptoms, and what imaging shows before making a recommendation.

• A tooth that is impacted and cannot come in properly
• Pain, swelling, or repeated infection around the tooth
• Decay or gum disease affecting the wisdom tooth or its neighbor
• Crowding or pressure on nearby teeth
• A cyst or other change seen on imaging
• Difficulty keeping the area clean, raising the risk of future problems

• Tooth Extraction
• Oral Surgery

Planning and imaging

Before wisdom tooth removal, imaging such as an X-ray or CBCT 3D scan may be used when clinically appropriate to see the roots and nearby structures, including nerves and the sinus. This planning helps the dentist understand the position of each tooth and perform a careful procedure. Some cases are treated in our office, while more complex situations may be referred to a specialist.

What the procedure involves

1. An examination and imaging to assess each wisdom tooth and its roots.
2. Local anesthetic to numb the area, with sedation available for anxious patients.
3. Removal of the tooth, which may be sectioned if it is impacted.
4. Cleaning of the site and, when needed, placement of stitches.
5. After-care instructions for a comfortable recovery.

Comfort is a priority. Procedures are performed with local anesthetic, and sedation options are available for patients who feel anxious about treatment. Your dentist will explain what to expect based on how many teeth are being removed and how they are positioned.

• Sedation Dentistry

Recovery and after-care

Recovery varies from person to person. Some swelling, soreness, and minor bleeding are common in the first days and usually improve with time and care. You will typically be asked to rest, apply cold as directed, eat soft foods, avoid vigorous rinsing or using a straw for a period, and keep the area clean. Protecting the blood clot in each socket is important for healing.

Contact the office if you have increasing pain a few days after surgery, swelling that worsens rather than improves, bleeding that does not settle, or a fever. Prompt communication allows us to check on your healing and advise you. Your dentist will provide specific after-care guidance for your situation.

What affects the cost of wisdom teeth removal

The investment in wisdom teeth removal depends on several factors. These include how many teeth are being removed, whether each tooth is fully erupted or impacted, the complexity of the roots, whether imaging or sedation is used, and whether the case is treated in the office or referred. Removing a single simple tooth and removing several impacted teeth can differ considerably.

Because each case is different, we do not quote a single figure that applies to everyone. After examining your wisdom teeth and reviewing imaging, we provide a personalized estimate at your consultation, and our team can review your insurance benefits and financing before treatment begins.

• Insurance and Financing

Why patients choose Gentle Dentistry of Poway

• Care from Dr. Shabnam Pedram and Dr. Maggie Abadan
• Honest guidance on whether a wisdom tooth needs removal or can be monitored
• CBCT 3D imaging used when clinically appropriate for planning
• Sedation options for patients who feel anxious
• Clear after-care instructions and follow-up support
• Convenient care for patients in Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and Scripps Ranch

Schedule a consultation

If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or you have been told they may need attention, an examination clarifies your options. Schedule a consultation with Gentle Dentistry of Poway to review your situation and what to expect.

Information on this website is educational and does not replace an examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment plan from a licensed dentist. Treatment recommendations, timing, costs, and results vary by patient.