Wisdom Teeth Removal in Portland
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) often erupt in your late teens or early twenties, but their timing and impact can be unpredictable. While some studies question preventive removal, it’s commonly recommended in the U.S. to avoid future issues like crowding, impaction, or infection—especially where dental care or insurance is limited.
t’s important to have a trusted oral surgeon who evaluates your unique situation with integrity. Dr. Charugundla takes an integrative approach, considering the long and short-term impacts to you before making a recommendation for Wisdom Teeth removal.
When Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Signs it's time to consider Wisdom Tooth extraction.
- Pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth
- Decay, red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Jaw stiffness or trouble opening your mouth (impacted of wisdom teeth)
- Lack of space/Crowding of other teeth
- Recurring infections or cysts around your wisdom teeth
Approximately 85% of Wisdom Teeth will need to be removed.
An estimated 9 out of 10 people will need removal because of impaction.
About 35% people are born without Wisdom Teeth.
Typically, 3-5 days are needed to fully recover from Wisdom Tooth Extraction.
How to Speed Up Wisdom Tooth Recovery
Signs it's time to consider Wisdom Tooth extraction.
- Manage pain with prescribed or over-the-counter Tylenol and ibuprofen, and intermittently use ice packs on the cheeks to reduce swelling.
- Protect the healing blood clots by avoiding straws, spitting, and vigorous rinsing to prevent dry sockets.
- Start with clear liquids, transitioning to a soft food diet, and stay hydrated.
- Gently rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours, avoid alcohol-based mouthwash, and brush carefully around the surgical area.
- Lastly, rest well and avoid strenuous activities to support the healing process.
Can I be 'put under' for my Wisdom Teeth removal?
I often get asked, 'How bad is wisdom tooth removal without anesthesia?' The truth is, it varies from person to person, and case to case. What I can promise is that I take dental anxiety and pain seriously, and I'll work closely with you to find the best solution for your needs.
What happens during Wisdom Teeth removal surgery?
Consultation, Assessment and Planning
- Dr. Charugundla will discuss your particular Wisdom Teeth extraction case prior to scheduling surgery.
- Dental X-rays are taken to evaluate the position of your teeth.
- Anesthesia and sedation options will be discussed in this consultation.
- Learn more about how to prepare for your consultation >
Procedure Day
- Typically local anesthesia or some kind of light sedation is administered to ensure a pain-free experience. More about our sedation options >
- Dr. Charugundla makes small incisions in the gums to access the teeth.
- If necessary, bone may be removed, or the tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier extraction.
- Dissolvable stitches may be placed.
- Blood clots form naturally to support healing and prevent complications like dry sockets.
Recovery & Post-Procedure Care
- Depending on the level of sedation you received, you may be monitored before you are released to your designated driver.
- After the procedure, you’ll receive detailed instructions for pain management, swelling reduction, and proper healing.
Do you perform emergency Wisdom Tooth removal?
If you’re experiencing unbearable wisdom tooth pain or signs of an infection like swelling or an abscess, immediate care may be needed. Untreated wisdom tooth abscesses or severe wisdom tooth cavities can lead to complications, including intense pain and the spread of infection. Summit Oral Surgery may be able to provide emergency wisdom tooth removal to alleviate pain quickly and prevent further issues. Contact us for emergency availability >
What are signs of problems after Wisdom Teeth removal?
Post-surgery you will be provided with comprehensive aftercare instructions. It’s important to watch for signs of complications that may require urgent dental attention. Key symptoms include:
- Severe pain
- Excessive bleeding
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Worsening swelling
- Fuid leakage
- Signs of infection like pus in the socket.
Persistent numbness may indicate nerve damage, so any lasting discomfort or unusual symptoms should be addressed promptly to prevent serious complications. Questions? Contact Us >