Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom Teeth Simple and Comfortable.
Wisdom teeth don’t have to be a painful problem. At Center Point Dental, we focus on preventing discomfort and protecting your long-term oral health through gentle, precise care. Modern dental techniques make wisdom teeth removal safer, faster, and more comfortable than ever helping you avoid crowding, infection, and other complications before they start.
Dr. Flaherty and Dr. Stuart use advanced techniques and a compassionate approach to ensure every wisdom tooth procedure is smooth and stress-free. Whether your teen’s wisdom teeth are just starting to emerge or you’re an adult experiencing pain or swelling, our team provides personalized evaluations and treatment tailored to your needs.
At Center Point Dental, wisdom teeth care is about more than extraction—it’s about comfort, prevention, and long-term wellness. We’re here to make sure you or your teen feel informed, confident, and cared for every step of the way.
What are wisdom teeth—and why remove them?
Your wisdom teeth (third molars) usually develop in the late teens or early 20s. Because most jaws don’t have enough space, these teeth can:
- Grow at an angle (impaction) and press on neighboring teeth
- Cause crowding or shifting after orthodontic treatment
- Trap bacteria under the gums, leading to cavities or infection
- Create cysts or damage nearby roots and bone
Removing them before problems begin often means an easier procedure and a quicker recovery.
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Get in Touch
Have questions or need an appointment? Our friendly team is here to assist you.
Your visit: precise planning, gentle care
At Center Point Dental, we take a personalized approach to wisdom teeth care—because every smile and every situation is different. Whether you’re a teen whose wisdom teeth are just beginning to emerge or an adult experiencing discomfort or swelling, Dr. Flaherty and Dr. Stuart are here to help. With advanced imaging, precise treatment planning, and a gentle touch, we make the extraction process smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Our goal is to protect your oral health and help you maintain a confident, pain-free smile for years to come—all from one trusted dental office.
Comprehensive exam & imaging
We take digital X-rays or 3D CBCT scans to see tooth position, roots, and nerves. This allows us to plan a safe, efficient procedure tailored to you.
Personalized treatment plan
Dr. Flaherty or Dr. Stuart will explain your options, what to expect, and the best timing for removal. You’ll leave with a clear plan and transparent aftercare instructions.
Comfort-focused procedure
Numbing is thorough and gentle. For anxious patients or complex cases, we offer sedation options (see below). Most extractions take 30–60 minutes.
Smooth recovery
You’ll receive written instructions, a care kit, and direct guidance on pain control, swelling reduction, and when to resume normal activities.
Signs it’s time for an evaluation
- Soreness or pressure behind your last molar
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums in the back of the mouth
- Jaw stiffness or pain when chewing
- Recurrent infections or bad breath that doesn’t improve
- Your teen’s panoramic X-ray showing limited space or impaction
Not sure? A quick exam and 3D imaging can tell us exactly what’s going on and whether removal is recommended now, later, or not at all.
Sedation & comfort options
- Local anesthesia – Complete numbing of the area; you’re awake and comfortable.
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) – Takes the edge off anxiety and wears off quickly.
- Oral conscious sedation – A deeper level of relaxation while you remain responsive.
We’ll help you choose the option that fits your health history and preferences.
What to expect after surgery
Normal healing timeline
- Day 0–1: Numbness fades; minor bleeding and swelling are common. Rest, head elevated, ice on/off 20 minutes.
- Days 2–3: Peak swelling and mild bruising possible. Continue anti-inflammatory medication as directed.
- Days 4–7: Swelling subsides; most people resume school/work (no heavy lifting).
- 2 weeks: Most tenderness gone; soft tissues continue maturing.
- 6–8 weeks: Bone continues to fill in the sockets.
Do’s & don’ts
Do:
- Keep gauze in place as instructed; switch to a moist tea bag if needed.
- Start gentle saltwater rinses after 24 hours (no vigorous swishing).
- Eat soft, cool foods and drink plenty of water.
- Take medications exactly as directed.
Avoid (first 3–5 days):
- Straws, smoking/vaping, and spitting (these can dislodge the clot).
- Crunchy, hard, or spicy foods.
- Intense exercise or heavy lifting.
Dry socket prevention
A dry socket can occur if the blood clot is disturbed. Following the instructions above—especially avoiding suction (straws) and smoking—greatly lowers the risk. If pain suddenly worsens after initial improvement, call us.
Why Center Point Dental?
- Experience you can trust – Dr. Flaherty and Dr. Stuart perform extractions with precision and a gentle touch.
- Advanced imaging – 3D planning enhances safety and predictability.
- Comfort-first philosophy – Tailored anesthesia and sedation options.
Clear guidance – Simple, written aftercare and direct support if questions arise.
FAQ's
Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?
No. If they’re healthy, fully erupted, easy to clean, and not causing problems, removal may not be necessary. We’ll monitor with periodic X-rays.
What age is best for removal?
Late teens to early 20s often offers the easiest recovery because roots are less developed and bone is more flexible—but comfortable removal is possible at most ages.
Will it hurt?
You’ll be thoroughly numb, and sedation is available. Most patients describe pressure, not pain, during the procedure and manageable soreness afterward.
How long will I be off work or school?
Plan for 2–3 days of downtime, depending on your job and the number of teeth removed.
What about costs and insurance?
We’ll provide an estimate before treatment and help you understand your benefits and financing options.
