Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures in Houston for teens or early 20s, and for good reason. If left untreated, wisdom teeth may lead to serious dental and health concerns.

Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal:

• Impacted wisdom teeth trapped under the gums or bone
• Risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or periodontal disease
• Pressure that can damage neighboring teeth
• Risk of gum infections and cysts
• Difficulty cleaning back molars, increasing the risk of plaque buildup
• Preparation for orthodontics or other oral surgery

If your wisdom teeth grow in at an angle or don’t erupt fully, the risk of complications increases. Removing them early can prevent unnecessary pain and long-term oral health issues.

Concerned about whether your wisdom teeth need to come out? Call (713) 360-7700 to schedule an exam and panoramic X-ray with Dr. Dave.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

At Dentistry of Highland Village, we make the surgical procedure for wisdom teeth as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Consultation and Imaging

Dr. Rushi Dave will examine your mouth and take digital X-rays to determine how many wisdom teeth you have and whether they pose a risk to your oral health.

Step 2: Anesthesia Options

Depending on your needs and preferences, we offer local anesthetic, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), or sedation anesthesia to keep you relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. For complex cases, we may refer you to trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Step 3: Surgical Removal of Wisdom Teeth

The wisdom teeth extraction process may involve removing bone or gum tissue to access the impacted wisdom teeth. Once the teeth are removed, stitches may be placed to close the extraction site and support healing.

Step 4: Wisdom Tooth Removal Aftercare

You’ll be given detailed instructions on post-op care, including how to manage pain, reduce swelling with an ice pack, and when to resume regular activity.

Call (713) 360-7700 today to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation with Dr. Rushi Dave at Dentistry of Highland Village in Houston.

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Most patients recover from wisdom teeth removal within at least a week. Mild discomfort and swelling are common during the first few days, but these symptoms can be managed with prescribed medications and proper home care.

Recovery Tips:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours
• Use an ice pack to reduce facial swelling
• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup
• Keep your mouth clean with gentle rinsing and oral hygiene practices
• Avoid using dental floss near the extraction site
• Don’t smoke, use straws, or engage in activities that can dislodge the blood clot

One of the most important parts of healing is avoiding dry socket, a painful condition that occurs when the protective blood clot over the wound is lost too early. Follow all care instructions closely and return for any recommended checkups.

How to Tell If You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

You may not always feel pain when your wisdom teeth erupt, but there are signs that removal may be necessary. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to schedule a visit:

• Tender or swollen gums behind your molars
• Jaw stiffness or facial pain
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully
• Recurring gum infections or bad taste
• Cysts near the mandibular wisdom teeth
• Crowding or shifting of other teeth

Your Houston dentist or oral surgeon will help determine if your wisdom teeth management plan includes monitoring or removal.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not necessarily. Some people have healthy wisdom teeth that grow in straight and don’t cause problems. If there’s enough room in your mouth, your dentist may decide to keep them under observation instead of recommending extraction.

However, early twenties is the ideal time to evaluate your third molars, since the bone is softer and recovery is easier at that age. Waiting too long can increase the risk of long-term complications, including damage to nearby teeth, gum infections, and cyst formation.