Wisdom Tooth Removal in Northridge
Wisdom teeth have a habit of causing trouble right around the time most people are least prepared for it, usually in the late teens or early twenties, when there’s often just not enough room in the jaw for them to come in properly.
When they get stuck, grow at an angle, or only partially emerge, they can lead to pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth if left alone. Removing them before things escalate is usually the more comfortable path. At our Northridge office, we take imaging to see exactly how your wisdom teeth are positioned before recommending anything.
What is Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to come in, typically emerging between ages 17 and 25. Many people simply don’t have enough space in their jaw to accommodate them, which causes the teeth to become impacted, meaning they’re trapped beneath the gum or bone, or to erupt at an awkward angle that pushes against neighboring teeth. Removal involves extracting these teeth, sometimes through a straightforward extraction if they’ve fully emerged, or a more involved surgical procedure if they’re impacted. The goal at Clove Dental Northridge is to prevent the pain, crowding, and infection risk that problematic wisdom teeth tend to cause over time.
Signs You Might Need a Wisdom Tooth Removed
Prevents crowding of other teeth
Wisdom teeth pushing against neighboring teeth can shift your entire bite out of alignment.
Reduces risk of infection
Partially erupted teeth create pockets where bacteria can build up and cause recurring infections.
Avoids damage to nearby teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can press against and damage the roots of the teeth next to them.
Eliminates ongoing pain and discomfort
Many patients experience real relief once a problematic wisdom tooth is out.
Signs You Might Need Wisdom Tooth Removal
These are common signs that it’s time to have your wisdom teeth evaluated.
- Pain or swelling near the back of your jaw- This is often the first sign that a wisdom tooth is causing trouble.
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully- Swelling or infection around an emerging wisdom tooth can restrict jaw movement.
- Crowding or shifting in your other teeth- Pressure from an incoming wisdom tooth can affect the alignment of teeth nearby.
- Recurring gum infections near the back molars- Partially erupted wisdom teeth create hard-to-clean pockets prone to infection.
- Wisdom teeth coming in at a visible angle- X-rays or a visual exam showing a tooth growing sideways or into another tooth is a clear indicator.
Process of Getting a Wisdom Tooth Removed
Here’s what you can expect during your Wisdom Teeth Removal in Santa Monica:
Imaging and evaluation
X-rays show exactly how your wisdom teeth are positioned and whether they’re impacted.
Planning anesthesia or sedation
Depending on the complexity, local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia may be used.
Removing the tooth
Simple cases involve a straightforward extraction, while impacted teeth may require a small incision.
Closing the site if needed
Stitches are sometimes used to help the area heal properly, depending on the case.
Aftercare instructions
We go over what to eat, how to manage swelling, and how to care for the area while it heals.
Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Removal Consultation in Northridge
If your wisdom teeth have started causing pain, swelling, or crowding, it’s worth having them evaluated before things get worse. Our Northridge team will take a look with imaging, explain exactly what’s happening, and let you know honestly whether removal makes sense now or can wait. Recovery is more manageable than most people expect, especially with clear guidance on what to do afterward. Call us today to schedule your consultation.
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FAQs
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At what age are wisdom teeth usually removed?
Most people have them removed between ages 17 and 25, though it varies depending on when problems show up.
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Does wisdom tooth removal hurt?
The procedure itself is done under anesthesia or sedation, so it shouldn't hurt. Some swelling and discomfort during recovery is normal and manageable.
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How long is recovery after wisdom tooth removal?
Most patients recover within a few days to a week after Wisdom Teeth Removal, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
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Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?
Not necessarily. Some wisdom teeth come in properly aligned and cause no issues, though they still need to be monitored over time.
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What can I eat after having my wisdom teeth removed?
Soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes are recommended for the first few days, avoiding anything hard, crunchy, or that requires heavy chewing.