Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to develop. They usually emerge during a person’s late teens or early twenties. For many, there simply isn’t enough space in the jaw for these teeth to come in properly, and they can cause pain, infection, and long-term damage to surrounding teeth and bone. At The Christiana Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we help patients and families make informed decisions about wisdom tooth removal and aim to make the process as calm and predictable as possible.

What Are Wisdom Teeth, and Why Might They Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth are your third molars, located at the very back of your mouth. While they were useful to our ancestors, today’s modern jaws often don’t have the space to accommodate them. As a result, they may remain trapped under the gum (impacted), partially erupt, or grow in at an angle—which can lead to painful complications.

If left untreated, poorly positioned wisdom teeth can lead to:

• Infections like pericoronitis
• Cysts that damage the jawbone or nearby teeth
• Crowding, especially after orthodontic treatment
• Gum disease or decay in surrounding molars

That’s why early evaluation—typically in the mid-teen years—is so important. Using digital X-rays and oral exams, our surgeons can assess the position of the teeth and anticipate whether intervention is needed.

Signs It Might Be Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth

Not everyone experiences symptoms, but common signs include persistent jaw soreness, swelling around the gums, difficulty opening the mouth, or shifting of nearby teeth. These issues may start gradually and worsen over time.

Our oral surgeons evaluate patients individually, helping families decide on the right timing for treatment based on anatomy, age, and comfort.

The Benefits of Early Removal

There are good reasons why many patients choose to remove their wisdom teeth in the late teens or early twenties. At this age, the roots are still developing and the jawbone is less dense, which allows for a smoother procedure and faster recovery. As patients get older, the risks of complications, like nerve involvement or slow healing, begin to increase.

We often recommend removal before symptoms start, when treatment is preventative rather than reactive. This helps preserve long-term oral health and minimizes the chance of emergencies later on.

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

Before your procedure, you’ll have a consultation where we’ll discuss anesthesia options, review imaging, and explain every step of your care. Most procedures are performed right in our office, under IV sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and preferences. Our surgical suites are fully equipped for safety and comfort, and we follow strict monitoring protocols to ensure the best possible experience.

On the day of surgery, it’s important to plan to arrive with an empty stomach and bring a trusted adult who can stay with you afterward. The procedure itself typically takes less than an hour, and our team will be by your side from start to finish to guide your recovery.

You’ll receive medication and instructions for managing discomfort, and most patients are able to return to light activity within a few days. Dissolvable stitches may be used, and we’ll provide tips to help prevent dry socket and other post-operative issues.

What If Wisdom Teeth Aren’t Removed?

As the roots of the teeth grow longer and the jawbone hardens with age, wisdom tooth removal becomes more complex. Complications such as cyst formation, gum disease, or damage to the second molars are more common in patients who delay treatment. Healing may also take longer, and discomfort can be more significant.

In some cases, if the wisdom teeth are completely impacted and not causing symptoms, your surgeon may recommend monitoring them rather than having immediate surgery. But for most, proactive removal in the late teen years results in the smoothest outcome.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of wisdom tooth removal varies depending on the number of teeth involved, the degree of impaction, and the type of anesthesia chosen. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed estimate so you can plan with confidence.

Our team is experienced in working with dental insurance providers and can help determine what your policy may cover. For those without coverage, we’re happy to discuss financing options or payment plans designed to make care more manageable.

Why Trust Us with Your Care

Our board-certified oral surgeons are deeply experienced in both routine and complex extractions. Patients trust us not only for our clinical expertise, but for the way we listen, explain, and support patients with exceptional care. We provide all procedures in a welcoming environment designed to support comfort and healing—from your first appointment through your final follow-up.

If you or a loved one is considering wisdom tooth removal, we welcome you to schedule a consultation. We’ll answer your questions, walk you through next steps, and offer guidance you can trust.