Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery that can prevent pain, infection, and crowding. At Sonshine Family Dental, Dr. Steven Driggers and Dr. Samuel Driggers provide gentle, precise extractions using advanced imaging and modern techniques to keep you comfortable from consultation through recovery. Whether your wisdom teeth are painful, impacted, or monitored for future issues, our goal is to protect your long-term oral health and help you heal quickly.
What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last adult teeth to erupt, typically between ages 17 and 25. Because jaw space is limited, they often emerge at an angle or remain trapped under gums or bone (impacted). Wisdom teeth removal is a minor surgical procedure to extract these molars before they cause problems such as infection, crowding, or damage to neighboring teeth.
When You Might Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
You may need evaluation or removal if you notice jaw pain or pressure, swollen or bleeding gums around back teeth, recurring infections, bad breath, cyst formation on X-rays, crowding or shifting teeth, or difficulty cleaning the area. During your exam, Dr. Steven Driggers or Dr. Samuel Driggers will review digital images to assess roots, nerve proximity, and available space. Early removal can simplify the procedure and reduce recovery time.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
At Sonshine Family Dental, comfort is our priority. We begin with digital panoramic or 3D imaging and a thorough consultation. On the day of your procedure, the area is fully numbed, and sedation options may be offered when appropriate. For erupted teeth, gentle instruments are used to loosen and remove the tooth. For impacted teeth, a small incision and sectioning may be needed to remove the tooth safely. The site is cleaned, sutures may be placed, and you’ll receive detailed home-care instructions. Most visits take about 60–90 minutes, and you can return home the same day.
Benefits of Timely Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Removing problematic third molars helps prevent infections, gum disease around second molars, cavities in hard-to-clean areas, cysts, damage to adjacent teeth, and orthodontic relapse. Prompt care reduces pain episodes, swelling, and the risk of more complex surgery later.
Caring for the Area After Surgery
Bite on gauze as directed, keep your head elevated, and use cold compresses the first 24–36 hours. Avoid smoking, straws, vigorous rinsing, and strenuous activity for at least 72 hours. Eat soft, cool foods initially; then advance as tolerated. Begin gentle saltwater rinses after the first day and keep the rest of your mouth clean. Take medications as prescribed and contact Sonshine Family Dental if pain, swelling, or bleeding worsens after the second day.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have wisdom tooth pain or were advised to remove your third molars, call Sonshine Family Dental at 317-271-1330 to schedule a visit with Dr. Steven Driggers or Dr. Samuel Driggers. We proudly serve patients in Avon, Indiana, offering careful extractions, clear guidance, and supportive follow-up for a smooth recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not always. If third molars are healthy, fully erupted, easy to clean, and not affecting other teeth, we may simply monitor them with periodic exams and imaging.
Will the procedure hurt?
You will be thoroughly numbed, and sedation may be available when appropriate. Most patients feel pressure, not pain. Discomfort afterward is typically manageable with cold packs and recommended medications.
How long is recovery?
Most patients resume normal routines in two to three days, with soft-tissue healing in one to two weeks. We provide a personalized timeline and follow-up instructions based on your case.
What are dry sockets and how can I avoid them?
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot dislodges, exposing bone. Avoid smoking, straws, vigorous rinsing, and hard or crunchy foods early on. Follow all post-op instructions carefully.
What if my wisdom teeth are close to a nerve or sinus?
We evaluate root anatomy and nearby structures with detailed imaging. If needed, we adapt the surgical plan or coordinate care to ensure the safest approach for your situation.