Wisdom Teeth Removal

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. For many patients in San Juan Capistrano, these late arrivals don't have enough room in the jaw to come in properly, which is why removal is one of the most common procedures Dr. Leila Khamsei, DDS performs.

Why Third Molar Extraction May Be Necessary

• Impaction: When wisdom teeth don't have enough room to emerge properly, they can become trapped or grow at an angle, causing pain.
• Infection and decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
• Crowded teeth: Emerging wisdom teeth can push against existing teeth, disrupting proper alignment and potentially undoing orthodontic work.
• Cyst formation: Impacted wisdom teeth can develop fluid-filled sacs called cysts that damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

Treatment begins with a consultation and examination, where Dr. Leila assesses your wisdom teeth, takes digital images, and discusses your individual needs. Next, appropriate anesthesia is administered to ensure your complete comfort throughout the procedure. The wisdom tooth is then carefully extracted, sometimes in sections for easier removal and minimal tissue disruption. Finally, the extraction site is cleaned and, if needed, stitched, with gauze placed to control bleeding. The procedure typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the number of teeth being removed.

Am I a Candidate for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Persistent pain, swelling, infections, tooth damage, cysts, or jaw stiffness are all signs that it may be time to have your wisdom teeth evaluated. Dr. Leila will examine your teeth and provide a personalized recommendation during your consultation.

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

You won't feel pain during the procedure itself thanks to anesthesia, and most patients experience only mild discomfort during recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within 3-5 days, though complete healing takes about 1-2 weeks. Dr. Leila provides detailed aftercare instructions and pain management recommendations to help ensure a smooth, speedy recovery with minimal complications.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the complexity of your case and the number of teeth being removed. San Juan Family Dentistry offers flexible payment options, including CareCredit financing, to help make treatment affordable and accessible. Many dental insurance plans also cover a portion of wisdom teeth removal, especially when it's medically necessary, and our team will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits and provide a clear breakdown of your expected costs.

Schedule Your Consultation

Patients throughout San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Capistrano Beach, and San Clemente trust San Juan Family Dentistry for gentle, modern wisdom teeth removal. Call (949) 240-6888 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Leila Khamsei, DDS.