Wisdom Teeth Removal

The first step in the wisdom teeth removal process is making an appointment with us. During that initial consultation, we will take x-rays and use specialized imaging tools to get a clear picture of the positioning of your wisdom teeth. The information we gather will give us a clear picture of the work that needs to be done.

We have 4 convenient locations in Central Florida for wisdom teeth extractions including: South Orlando, East Orlando, Kissimmee, and Winter Garden.

The Best Experience Possible

We are committed to making your experience great! And thanks to rapidly advancing technology, new medicines, sterilization and infection control options, Dr. Morales, Dr. Shaikh, Dr. Alicea, and Dr. Antonos are able to perform the wisdom teeth removal procedure in a way that promotes quicker healing and minimizes pain.

Read wisdom teeth removal reviews from our patients at the bottom of this page.

What to Expect

Prior to your wisdom teeth extraction surgery, we will send you home with very specific pre and post-surgical instructions so that you know what to expect.

A few key items for before the surgery:

• Food: No eating or drinking the day of your procedure except for pre-approved medications which may be taken with a sip of water.
• Adult: Bring a parent or responsible adult. We will not be able to release you alone.
• Anesthesia: Most people prefer to be sedated for the procedure, and we offer a variety of levels of anesthesia to accommodate personal preferences. We are trained and highly experienced with anesthesia, and providing you with a safe and comfortable experience is our top priority.

A few key items for after the surgery:

• Numbness: You will feel sleepy for the remainder of the day, and you may have numbness in the jaw and possibly a sensation of your gums feeling swollen and pulling away from your teeth. This is a common part of the healing process.
• Food: Start with clear liquids and slowly progress to soft foods. Avoid dairy products the first day, as they tend to interact with anesthesia, sometimes causing nausea.
• No straws: Throughout the healing period, you may not use straws (or tobacco). Using straws can dislodge the clot that is covering your extraction site, resulting in a very painful condition called dry socket.
• Pain medications: Make sure you have any over-the-counter or prescription pain medications ready to go for when the anesthesia starts to wear off at home.

The Wisdom Teeth Procedure

The length of your surgery depends on a variety of factors, including the level of impaction of your teeth and the number of teeth being removed.

Typically, most wisdom teeth extractions are performed in about an hour during which you will be kept comfortable with anesthesia.

Post-op Recovery

Soreness after surgery can be managed with over-the-counter medications, but we will discuss with you all medication options before your surgery to ensure that you have adequate pain relief at home as the anesthesia wears off.

Wisdom Teeth Complications

Thankfully, complications following wisdom teeth removal are rare and largely avoidable. However, if you suspect any of these issues, please call us for instructions:

Dry Sockets:

Dry sockets are the most common complication following a tooth extraction, and they can occur when the blood clot in an extraction site becomes dislodged or never develops properly. This complication can result from smoking and straw use, improper home-care, such as vigorous rinsing, and unknown infections. If you have symptoms of dry socket, please call our office immediately so that we can help manage your pain and properly care for you. Dry socket symptoms normally appear several days after your surgery and may include:

• Significant pain.
• Pain radiating to the ear, cheek, etc.
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Visible bone or an empty-looking socket.

Infection:

You may be developing an infection if you have a fever, worsening pain and swelling.

Damage to Sensory Nerve:

It is normal to feel some numbness or tingling in the lower lip, chin or tongue following a wisdom teeth extraction. However, very rarely, sensory nerve damage occurs that causes the sensation to stay permanently. Having your wisdom teeth out while you are young (before the age of 18) lessens the likelihood that this condition will develop—another reason to take care of this important procedure during the teen years!

Sinus Communication:

Because the upper wisdom teeth are so close to the sinus cavities, an opening can develop between the sinuses and the mouth following an extraction. This “hole” will usually close on its own, provided that you follow specific instructions (avoid blowing your nose, sneeze with your mouth open) to avoid a pressure buildup in the sinuses. In rare cases, we must perform an additional procedure to close the opening.

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?

Every patient’s situation is different, which is why we have a consultation with you prior to the surgery and evaluate the positioning of your wisdom teeth and how many need to be removed. This information allows us to present you with all possible costs upfront.

The following factors may affect the cost of wisdom teeth extraction:

• Anesthesia Used
• Dental Imaging
• Number of Teeth Extracted
• Level of Impaction

Does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?

Many dental insurance policies do include wisdom teeth removal in their benefits. Our staff will help you navigate your insurance policy so that you can obtain the maximum benefit from your provider.

The Cost of NOT Having Wisdom Teeth Removed

While the cost of wisdom teeth extraction may seem prohibitive, the price of not having them removed may cost more money (and pain) in the future, as extractions get more and more complicated with age.

Financing the Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal

A quick phone call to our office will help you understand the financing options available to you. We offer a variety of options to our patients and their families to ensure that they get the care that they need.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment please give us a call. We believe the more you know, the more confidence you will have on the day of your surgery!