How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, but it’s important to have a clear understanding of what to expect. At Minto Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we believe in providing our patients with the information they need to feel confident and comfortable. This includes knowing how long the procedure typically takes. We’ll break down the factors that influence the duration and give you a general timeframe.

Understanding the Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, usually in the late teens or early twenties. However, they often become impacted, meaning they don’t have enough space to emerge properly. This can lead to various problems, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth, necessitating their removal.  

The wisdom teeth removal procedure generally involves these steps:

1. Consultation and Evaluation: The process begins with an initial consultation, including an examination and X-rays, to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and plan the extraction.  
2. Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, anesthesia is administered. This can range from local anesthesia, which numbs the area, to sedation dentistry, which helps patients relax, or general anesthesia, where the patient is asleep during the procedure. Minto Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery offers sedation dentistry to prioritize patient comfort.  
3. Extraction: The oral surgeon carefully loosens the wisdom teeth and removes them. In some cases, this may involve sectioning the teeth into smaller pieces for easier removal.
4. Cleaning and Closure: After extraction, the site is cleaned, and sutures may be placed to aid healing.

Factors Affecting Procedure Time

The duration of wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on several factors:

• Number of Teeth: The number of wisdom teeth being removed will obviously affect the overall time. Removing all four wisdom teeth will generally take longer than removing just one or two.
• Impaction: Impacted wisdom teeth, especially those that are fully bony impacted, require more time and skill to remove than erupted teeth.
• Tooth Position: The angle and position of the wisdom teeth can make the extraction process more complex and time-consuming.
• Patient Factors: Individual anatomical variations and other patient-specific factors can also influence the duration of the procedure.

General Timeframe for Wisdom Teeth Removal

While the exact time varies, here’s a general guideline:

• Simple Extraction: A simple extraction of a fully erupted wisdom tooth might take as little as 20-30 minutes per tooth.

• Complex Extraction: More complex extractions, involving impacted teeth, can take 45 minutes to an hour or more per tooth.

• Total Procedure Time: For all four wisdom teeth, the procedure could range from one to several hours, depending on the complexity of the extractions and the type of anesthesia used.

Patient Care and Comfort

At Minto Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, patient experience and comfort are paramount. Dr. Minto and his team prioritize creating a positive and comfortable environment for wisdom teeth removal. They achieve this through:  

• Sedation Dentistry: Offering sedation options to alleviate anxiety and ensure a relaxed experience.  
• Skill and Expertise: Dr. Minto’s skill and experience in oral surgery contribute to efficient and effective procedures.
• Compassionate Care: The team’s friendly, caring, and compassionate approach helps patients feel at ease.  

Efficient and Caring Wisdom Teeth Removal

The time required for wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the complexity of the case. However, with skilled professionals and a focus on patient comfort, the procedure can be completed efficiently. Minto Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is dedicated to providing excellent care and ensuring a positive experience for every patient needing wisdom teeth removal.