Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, can cause problems even before they fully emerge. Because they’re located at the very back of the mouth, they often:

• Erupt at an angle or remain trapped (impacted) beneath the gums

• Push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding or alignment issues

• Lead to jaw stiffness, swelling, or persistent pain

• Create spaces where bacteria collect, increasing the risk of infection, gum disease, and tooth decay

If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to more serious complications like cysts, damage to nearby teeth, and infections that affect surrounding bone and tissue.

Proactive removal can help prevent these issues and protect your long-term oral health.

When Is the Right Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The ideal time to remove wisdom teeth is typically between the late teens and early twenties—before the roots fully develop and the surrounding bone becomes denser. At this stage, the procedure is usually simpler and recovery is faster.

At South Scottsdale Dental Care, we monitor wisdom teeth development during regular exams and with diagnostic X-rays. If we see signs that your child’s or teen’s wisdom teeth could cause problems, we’ll recommend the best timing for removal—often before symptoms start.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Each wisdom tooth removal is tailored to the individual, depending on how many teeth need to be extracted and whether they are impacted. No matter your situation, your comfort and safety are always our top priority.

Comfort & Sedation Options

We offer a variety of sedation and anesthesia options to ensure a calm, comfortable experience. During your consultation, we’ll help you choose the best option based on your needs and preferences, which may include:

• Local anesthesia

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

• Oral or IV sedation

Our experienced dental team will walk you through each step and answer any questions, so you feel confident and prepared.

Healing & Recovery

After your procedure, we’ll provide clear, easy-to-follow recovery instructions to support proper healing, including:

• How to manage swelling and discomfort

• Recommended soft foods and hydration tips

• Activities to avoid during the healing period

Most patients recover comfortably within a few days, with full healing typically taking one to two weeks.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or your teen may need wisdom teeth removal, the team at South Scottsdale Dental Care is here to help. We provide expert care, personalized guidance, and a focus on your comfort every step of the way.