Wisdom Teeth in Sarasota, FL
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing problem wisdom teeth early protects your other teeth and prevents pain, infection and crowding down the road. Our oral surgeons make the procedure safe, comfortable and straightforward.
The Basics
What is wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure to extract one or more third molars — the last teeth to develop at the back of the mouth. It is recommended when a wisdom tooth is impacted, only partially erupted, poorly positioned, or at risk of causing infection, decay or crowding. As oral and maxillofacial surgeons, we remove wisdom teeth every day, including the most complex impactions, all in the comfort of our office.
With an oral examination and x-rays, your surgeon can evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and predict any present or future problems. Studies show early evaluation and treatment lead to better outcomes, which is why patients are usually first assessed in the mid-teenage years.
What to Expect
What to expect during your procedure
Wisdom teeth removal is a carefully planned, same-day procedure designed around your comfort from start to finish.
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Consultation
Your surgeon reviews your health history and a panoramic x-ray to assess the position of each tooth and plan your treatment.
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Anesthesia
You are made comfortable with local anesthesia, IV sedation or general anesthesia, chosen together based on your needs.
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Removal
Each wisdom tooth is gently removed. The site is cleaned and, if needed, closed with dissolvable stitches.
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Recovery
You rest briefly, then head home with detailed aftercare instructions and a plan for a smooth recovery.
Your Comfort
Anesthesia and sedation options
Because we are surgical specialists, we offer the full range of anesthesia options right in our office — from local anesthesia to IV sedation and general anesthesia. Your surgeon will recommend the option that best suits the complexity of your case, your medical history and your comfort level, so you can relax knowing you are in experienced hands.
If you’ll be sedated, a little preparation keeps the day safe and smooth: do not eat or drink anything for at least six hours beforehand (a full stomach raises the risk of anesthetic complications), and arrange for a parent or responsible adult to drive you and stay with you afterward. Most procedures take about 30 to 60 minutes, and you’ll be sleepy for much of the day.
Why It Matters
Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
When there isn’t enough room for the third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can develop. Impacted wisdom teeth are best removed before their roots are fully formed — often in the mid-to-late teens — because problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after age 30. Common issues include:
- Infection — the most common problem is pericoronitis, a localized gum infection around a partially erupted tooth that causes recurring pain, swelling and trouble chewing.
- Cyst formation — fluid-filled cysts can form around an impacted tooth and slowly expand, destroying nearby jawbone and, occasionally, teeth.
- Crowding — impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of the front teeth, sometimes undoing previous orthodontic work.
- Damage to adjacent teeth — when the area can’t be cleaned properly, the neighboring second molar is prone to gum disease, bone loss and decay.
Removing wisdom teeth later in life is often more complex: the roots are longer, the bone is denser, and healing can be slower with a higher chance of complications. Treating problems early gives the most predictable, comfortable outcome.
Is It Time?
Signs it may be time to have them removed
- Pain or pressure at the back of your mouth
- Swollen, tender or infected gums around a wisdom tooth
- A wisdom tooth that has only partially come in
- Jaw stiffness or trouble opening your mouth fully
- Repeated food trapping or persistent bad breath
- Your dentist has noticed crowding or an impaction on an x-ray
Why Choose Us
Why choose Sarasota Oral & Implant Surgery?
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons bring both medical and dental training to every procedure, so you get expert diagnosis and comfortable, precise care from consultation to recovery.
- Dual-degree surgeons (DMD and MD) with advanced anesthesia training
- Board-certified Diplomates of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Decades of experience across thousands of successful cases
- 3D imaging and modern technology for precise, predictable results
- A full range of sedation and comfort options
- Convenient locations across the Sarasota area
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does wisdom teeth removal take?
Most procedures take about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are removed and how they are positioned. You will be able to go home the same day, and we recommend having someone drive you if you receive sedation.
Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?
You should not feel pain during the procedure, thanks to local anesthesia or sedation. Afterward, most patients experience mild to moderate soreness and swelling for a few days, which is well controlled with the medication and aftercare we provide.
How long is recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Most people feel noticeably better within three to four days, with the gums fully healing over a couple of weeks. Following your post-operative instructions closely helps you recover comfortably and avoid complications like dry socket.
What should I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Stick to soft, cool foods such as yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes and soup for the first few days, and avoid using a straw. You can gradually return to your normal diet as the area heals — your detailed aftercare instructions walk you through it.
