Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final set of teeth to grow into the mouth. Although some wisdom teeth grow in without causing any issues, it is common for these last molars to present with issues. Wisdom teeth have a tendency to grow sideways, become impacted, and cause oral health complications.
Though wisdom teeth generally emerge from the gums during early adulthood, they can start developing beneath the gums as early as age 11 or 12. It’s recommended that wisdom teeth are extracted to prevent future problems from arising.
Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth
Dental checkups are key to detecting the growth of wisdom teeth, and dentists generally refer patients to an oral surgeon when it’s time to have these teeth removed. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to get your wisdom teeth taken out:
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Jaw pain
- Red or swollen gums
- Ongoing bad breath
- Pain or difficulty when opening the mouth
- Seeing a wisdom tooth poking up through the gums
Top 3 Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
- Prevent damage to nearby teeth
- Prevent or treat impaction
- Prevent dental shifting
The Process of Extracting Wisdom Teeth
During your first visit, we will take 3D CBCT scans of your teeth and mouth to get a clear understanding of the location and development of your wisdom teeth. Patients typically undergo general anesthesia during the extraction procedure.
After the anesthesia has been administered, your oral surgeon will lift the gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth. Some teeth can simply be removed with forceps, while others may need to be broken into smaller pieces first. Any incisions will be stitched closed, and you will rest in our comfortable recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. Your designated driver will take you home.
After wisdom teeth are removed, you have the option to have them stored in a secure laboratory for future use in regenerative medicine. Amarillo Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants is a certified Stemodontics® provider. We are happy to discuss your options for stem cell banking during your first appointment.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost and Other Questions
The cost of having wisdom teeth removed varies depending on the number of teeth, details of your insurance, and the type of anesthesia. Dr. Graves and Dr. Wilkinson have been trained to safely administer all types of anesthesia.
Hear From Wisdom Teeth Removal Patients
These patients can tell you about the firsthand experience undergoing wisdom teeth removal at our office.
Reviews From Our Wisdom Teeth Removal Patients
Ashley Reviews Her Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Ashley
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Patient
"It’s very friendly here. It’s a very, like, happy environment. I love the staff here. They’re all very, very nice. They explain everything to you very thoroughly. The doctors here are very calming, and they make sure that you know everything that’s going on. Dr. Graves walked through everything with me, told me everything was going to be OK, was right there by my side the whole time whenever I fell asleep and when I woke up, so it was perfect. They got me in and out very quickly, and it was a great recovery. To all my friends in Amarillo and in Canyon, I would absolutely recommend Amarillo Oral Surgery."
Debbie Reviews Her Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Debbie
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Patient
"I found out from my dentist that I had some wisdom teeth that needed to be cut out. I met Dr. Graves first, and I came in, and he extracted my four wisdom teeth. I was very nervous because I have a phobia of being at the dentist. Since my experience with Dr. Graves and Dr. Wilkinson, I have no longer even needed medication to get my teeth cleaned. I need at least about, I know, eight implants, and I am just very comfortable knowing that Dr. Wilkinson or Dr. Graves are going to take good care of me and that I have nothing to worry about. I can walk in with confidence."
Nick Reviews His Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Nick
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Patient
"When I came here, the staff had me taken care of, and it was very inviting. The staff were very confident and reassuring, and they really calmed my nerves and helped me out. The doctors here were very helpful, very friendly, and they took care of me very well. My recovery process when I got my wisdom teeth out seemed to go good, and everything went well. My experience at this practice was very good. I would definitely recommend Amarillo Oral Surgery to anyone. The doctors are fantastic, and the staff is very friendly. "
Devin Reviews Her Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Devin
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Patient
"It’s not your standard doctor’s office. It’s so much more. The staff especially, they put my mind at ease. They talked me through the entire procedure. When I first met Dr. Graves, he was very professional, answered any questions I might have had. My experience here was great: came in, got the surgery, was out by 9 o’clock, and on with my life. The recovery time was quick and easy. On a scale of one to five stars, I would give Dr. Graves five stars."
Delanie Reviews Her Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
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Delanie
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Patient
"The doctors and the staff really make sure that you’re taken care of and that they can do everything in their power to make sure that your experience overall is really good here. The staff, they’re very good spirited, and they have a lot of love for their patients. They are super friendly and almost like family. The doctors here are very informative. They just know exactly how to make their patients feel good. I think the process overall was really great. It was a speedy recovery. I’m really glad that I got my wisdom teeth removed through Amarillo Oral Surgery. "
Other Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions about a procedure, financing, or anything else, please reach out to us at any time. Our team is here to help, and we look forward to caring for you and your loved ones.