If you’ve been told you need a wisdom tooth extraction, you may be wondering about the process and how long the procedure will take. While the idea of a tooth extraction might sound daunting, it’s a routine procedure that can be done efficiently with the right care. In this blog, we’ll explore how long a wisdom tooth extraction typically takes, what the procedure involves, and what to expect during and after the extraction. With expert guidance from a wisdom teeth dentist in Perth, you can be prepared and confident for your upcoming procedure.
What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which one or more of the third molars (wisdom teeth) are removed. Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, but not everyone has enough space in their mouth for these teeth to emerge properly. When wisdom teeth become impacted (unable to fully emerge), cause pain, or lead to dental issues such as infection or misalignment, removal is often recommended.
How Long Does a Wisdom Tooth Extraction Take?
The length of time it takes to remove a wisdom tooth can vary depending on several factors, including the number of teeth being removed, the complexity of the extraction, and whether the tooth is impacted or fully erupted. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Simple Extractions (Non-Impacted Teeth)
For wisdom teeth that have fully emerged from the gums and are in a healthy position, the extraction is considered simple. In these cases, the procedure typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes per tooth. The process involves:
- Numbing the area with a local anesthetic.
- Loosening the tooth and removing it from the socket.
- Cleaning the area to prevent infection.
While the procedure itself is quick, you may need additional time for pre-procedure assessments, such as X-rays and consultations with your wisdom teeth dentist in Perth.
2. Surgical Extractions (Impacted Teeth)
If the wisdom tooth is impacted (meaning it hasn’t fully emerged through the gums or is positioned at an angle), the extraction procedure is more complex and may take 45 minutes to 1 hour per tooth. Surgical extractions typically involve:
- Administering local anesthesia or sedation (oral or intravenous) to keep you comfortable.
- Making an incision in the gum to access the tooth, especially if it’s partially or fully impacted beneath the gum line.
- Removing the tooth, sometimes in pieces, to minimise damage to the surrounding tissue.
- Closing the incision with stitches (if necessary).
Surgical extractions usually require more time and precision due to the complexity of accessing and removing the tooth.
3. Removing Multiple Wisdom Teeth
If you need more than one wisdom tooth extracted, the procedure will take longer. Generally, extracting two or more wisdom teeth in one visit can take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the number of teeth and their condition. Your wisdom teeth dentist in Perth may recommend removing all impacted wisdom teeth in one session for convenience, though some patients prefer to have them extracted in stages.
Factors That Affect the Length of the Procedure
- Position of the Wisdom Teeth: Teeth that are fully erupted and in a good position are easier to extract. Impacted or horizontally positioned teeth can take longer to remove.
- Number of Teeth: Extracting multiple wisdom teeth at once will naturally take more time.
- Bone Density: If the tooth is deeply embedded in the jawbone, it may require more time and effort to remove.
- Complexity of the Tooth: Teeth that are particularly decayed, broken, or infected can make the extraction more challenging.
- Sedation Options: If you opt for sedation or general anesthesia, the procedure may take slightly longer due to the preparation time, but you’ll be more relaxed and comfortable throughout.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before your wisdom teeth extraction:
- You will have a consultation with your wisdom teeth dentist in Perth, where X-rays will be taken to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and determine whether they are impacted.
- Your dentist will discuss your anesthesia options (local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia) based on the complexity of your extraction.
During the procedure:
- If you’re using local anesthesia, the area around the wisdom teeth will be numbed to prevent any pain.
- If you opt for sedation or general anesthesia, you’ll be put into a relaxed or sleep-like state.
- The dentist will carefully remove the tooth and, if necessary, stitch up the gum to promote healing.
After the procedure:
- You’ll spend some time in the recovery room, especially if you were sedated.
- Once the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some discomfort or soreness, which is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain relief.
- Your dentist will give you detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for the extraction site, what foods to eat, and how to manage pain and swelling.
Recovery Time After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The recovery time after wisdom tooth extraction can vary, but here’s a general timeline:
- First 24-48 hours: Expect swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with ice packs and prescribed pain medication. You may also experience some bleeding, but this should stop after a few hours.
- First week: Swelling and bruising should subside, though you may still feel some tenderness. It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions to avoid infection and promote healing.
- 2 weeks: Most patients are able to resume normal activities after about two weeks, although full healing of the gums and bone may take several months.
During the healing period, it’s important to avoid hard, chewy, or hot foods that could irritate the extraction site. Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing as expected.
Conclusion:
The time it takes for a wisdom tooth extraction depends on several factors, including the complexity of the tooth’s position and whether it’s impacted. For simple extractions, the procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, while impacted teeth may require 45 minutes to 1 hour. If you need multiple teeth removed, the procedure may take longer, but your wisdom teeth dentist in Perth will ensure that you are comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.
At Medivance Dental, we provide expert care for wisdom teeth removal with a focus on comfort, precision, and a smooth recovery. Visit our Contact Us page today to schedule a consultation and learn more about wisdom tooth removal options.
FAQs
- How long does it take to extract a wisdom tooth?
A simple wisdom tooth extraction can take as little as 20–30 minutes, while impacted or surgical cases might take up to an hour per tooth. - Is the procedure done under general anaesthesia?
Not always. Most wisdom teeth dentists in Perth use local anaesthetics with or without sedation. General anaesthesia is typically reserved for complex cases or nervous patients. - Will I feel anything during the extraction?
You may feel pressure or movement, but not pain. Your mouth will be fully numbed, and sedation options can help ease anxiety. - How long does recovery take after extraction?
Most people recover within 3–5 days for basic extractions. Full healing can take 1–2 weeks, especially for surgical removals. - Do I need someone to drive me home afterwards?
Suppose you’ve had sedation or general anaesthesia, yes. You’ll need someone to accompany you and help you get home safely.
