Wisdom Tooth Extractions Hayward

Careful Removal of Troublesome Third Molars

Patient and dental team member reviewing X-ray

You probably know several people who have gotten their wisdom teeth removed. Indeed, this procedure seems to be something of a rite of passage among teens and young adults. But what exactly does this treatment involve, and why is it so often necessary? Continue reading this page to learn more about wisdom tooth extractions in Hayward. You are also welcome to contact us if you believe it is time to schedule your wisdom tooth removal procedure.

Why Choose SoHay Dental for Wisdom Tooth Extractions?

  • Partnered with Highly Skilled Oral Surgeon
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removed In-House
  • Sedation Available for Nervous Patients

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Dental X-ray showing four impacted wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, which develop at the back of the mouth. Typically, they come in when a person is in their late teens or early 20s. Our ancient human ancestors needed wisdom teeth to consume a rough diet. In modern times, however, these teeth are viewed as vestigial. In fact, many people’s mouths are too small to accommodate them.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Frowning young woman with a toothache

Not everyone has to get their wisdom teeth removed. However, this procedure is often necessary because the third molars can cause significant oral health problems, especially if they are impacted (stuck beneath the gumline). For example, you may be at risk of:

  • Pain
  • Infections
  • Cysts and tumors
  • Oral hygiene challenges
  • Cavities in nearby teeth

The wisdom teeth might even push against nearby teeth, causing them to shift out of place.

Our team will monitor your wisdom teeth during routine checkups and let you know when/if they should be removed.

What to Expect from the Wisdom Teeth Procedure

Smiling female patient in dental treatment chair

We use local anesthesia and, in some cases, sedation, to make patients comfortable during their wisdom teeth procedure.

If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, removing them should be fairly straightforward. After using an elevator to lift them, we can grasp them with forceps and rock them back and forth in order to break the tissues holding them in place. Then, we will clean the socket and place gauze to control bleeding.

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, we may schedule your procedure for a day when our partner oral surgeon is visiting our office. They might need to create incisions in your gums or break your wisdom teeth into pieces in order to remove them.

Recovering From Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Woman eating soup after wisdom tooth procedure

Most people feel normal within 1 – 2 weeks of their wisdom teeth procedure. In the meantime, you may experience swelling, discomfort, and intermittent bleeding. Here are some tips to facilitate a smooth recovery:

  • Eat soft foods.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Do not drink through a straw.
  • Take medications as recommended by our team.
  • Prop your head up on pillows when you rest.
  • Avoid strenuous physical activity.
  • Call our office if you have questions or concerns at any point during your recovery.