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Finch Midland Dental

WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

Removing wisdom teeth, improving your oral health

Finch Midland Dental in Scarborough performs wisdom teeth removal using CBCT 3D imaging to map the exact position of roots relative to the inferior alveolar nerve — minimizing risk and ensuring a safer, more predictable surgery. our team offers local anesthesia and sedation options for patient comfort. Most patients from Scarborough choose in-house extraction rather than a specialist referral, for continuity of care and faster scheduling. Schedule a wisdom tooth evaluation or call (416) 297-6109.

What is wisdom teeth removal?What to expect during wisdom teeth removalWhat are reasons why wisdom teeth might need removal?What are impacted wisdom teeth?What is pericoronitis and how is it treated?Frequently asked questions about wisdom teeth removal

What is wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of your mouth, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth can be useful for chewing and grinding food, they can also cause problems if they do not have enough space to grow properly. Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is often recommended to prevent potential issues.

The procedure of wisdom teeth removal involves a minor surgical process to extract the teeth. The process is typically performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist, depending on the complexity of the case. Before the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. In some cases, the dentist will administer laughing gas sedation or general anesthesia to put the patient to sleep during the procedure.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth and the bone. The teeth are then gently loosened and removed from the sockets. After the extraction is complete, the dentist will place stitches in the gums to promote healing.

It is common to experience some pain and swelling following wisdom teeth removal. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort and prevent infection. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and quick recovery.

Transcript
hi everyone my name is whitney and i'm a dental hygienist if you're new here welcome if you've been here before welcome back let's talk about getting your wisdom teeth removed and how to prepare and what to expect and before we jump in i'd like to remind you about my website teethtalkgirl.com if you're ever looking for a specific dental topic i have a search bar where you can easily find what you're looking for and also my instagram at teeth talk girl when your wisdom teeth are beyond a doubt impacted infected damaging your adjacent teeth or otherwise causing you a lot of pain your dentist is going to recommend that you have them extracted but wisdom teeth extractions are actually a minor form of oral surgery they're not the quick in and out you need to have a tooth pulled visit that other types of extractions may involve for wisdom tooth removal most people request to be sedated or as some people say put under or under twilight so that they don't have to think about everything going on around them that being said it's completely fine to stay awake during your wisdom tooth surgery if you're comfortable with that just communicate those needs with your dentist and find the best treatment plan for you depending on how your wisdom teeth are set into your jaw a common way to remove them is to first numb that entire area of your mouth then the dentist or oral surgeon will open up the gums remove a portion of your bone above the wisdom tooth and then oftentimes section the third molar into multiple small pieces this makes it easier to remove the entire tooth without causing structural damage to the surrounding tissues nerves or bone once the entire tooth is taken out your dentist might place medication or a bone graft down into the socket then suture the extraction site closed sutures are similar to stitches and are usually dissolvable or they'll need to be removed in the next week your dentist or oral surgeon will let you know which ones you get sedation if you need sedation or twilight your dentist might refer you to an oral surgeon to have your wisdom teeth extractions completed oral surgeons are a type of dental specialist who perform treatments such as facial surgeries extractions and implant placements your dentist also might opt to send you to an oral surgeon if the wisdom teeth are positioned close to a facial nerve or impacted far down into the bone with sedation during an oral surgery like wisdom teeth extractions you generally feel like you're sleeping before the dentist numbs your mouth and begins the procedure so you won't even be awake for the numbing part you go in you take a nap and you leave most people do feel a little groggy several hours after and may not remember anything about the appointment so if you're one of those people who says i want to sleep through the whole thing then make sure you and your dentist talk about the different types of anesthesia and sedation available in their office preparation there are a few important things to do when you're preparing to have your wisdom teeth extractions first make sure your mouth is as healthy and clean as it can be brush and floss regularly to prevent any bacterial buildup so that you can recover without the risk of added infection second prep for your recovery make sure you have someone drive you to and from the appointment and then to stay with you while any sedatives are wearing off now is the time to start stocking up on soft foods that are easy to eat and finding a place in your home where you can rest with your head elevated and still reach the things you need you might want to plan on camping out in the living room for a day or two i actually have a video all about wisdom tooth extraction recovery tips which i will link that video in the bottom bar below if you'd like more tips and tricks but one more thing to prepare be sure to fill any prescriptions that your dentist has written and plan to take them as directed some people need to take antibiotics leading up to their wisdom teeth extractions because of infection others might have a pain management protocol set in place to ensure they're comfortable just be sure to have everything ready so that you're not scrambling on the day of your surgery wisdom tooth removal cost now the moment you've all been waiting for is the average cost of having your wisdom teeth taken out this is where i start throwing in all sorts of disclaimers like it depends on if you're adding sedation or general anesthesia to your procedure or which type of doctor is taking out your wisdom teeth a dentist or an oral surgeon and how many wisdom teeth are you having taken out plus let's not forget is it a straightforward extraction or are the wisdom teeth impacted as you might have already guessed simply getting a quote for wisdom teeth extraction costs isn't something a dentist can give you over the phone a lot of it will depend on how the tooth is situated in your mouth the process involved and even what area of the country you live in because the cost of living expenses oh and don't forget to add your insurance into the equation as well how much insurance covers for a wizard tooth extraction might be 50 or it might be more it just depends on your policy as far as the dollar average for costs of extractions the cheapest cost for having a tooth pulled is usually around 99 however that doesn't include any type of general anesthesia and it's only if the procedure is a simple tooth removal but when we start talking about removing wisdom teeth it might be somewhere closer to 220 to 340 or more just for the extraction not counting any additional procedures or sedatives when you see your dentist for your actual exam they'll give you a detailed treatment plan that outlines the cost of wisdom tooth removal based on whether it's simple or surgical any added fees for sedation and then calculate your insurance benefits into the equation that way you'll have a solid dollar figure as to what you can expect to pay out of pocket there's no way you're going to ever get that information or even close to an estimate by simply calling offices around town and asking how much they charge for wisdom tooth extraction it's a case-by-case scenario to learn more about wisdom teeth i'll link my wisdom teeth pain and symptoms video in the bottom bar below as well as my post-op recovery instructions video if you'd like to learn more i hope this video helped you please like and subscribe if it did if you want more teeth talk you can visit my website teethtalkgirl.com for more articles and videos about dental health and dental hygiene peace love auntie [Music] you

What to expect during wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom teeth removal is a routine dental procedure that involves the extraction of one or more wisdom teeth, the final set of molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. This procedure is often recommended to prevent potential oral health problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and overcrowding, that can occur when the wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow properly.

Expect Xrays
Before the procedure, the dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of the teeth and gums, and may take X-rays to determine the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. Based on the findings, the dentist will then recommend the best course of action, which may include removal of one or more wisdom teeth.

Expect Anesthesia
During the procedure, the patient will be given anesthesia to ensure comfort and minimize pain. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient’s preference and the complexity of the case. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area around the wisdom teeth, while laughing gas or general anesthesia may be recommended for patients who prefer to be sedated or asleep during the procedure.

Expect Extraction
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom teeth and the bone. The teeth are then gently loosened and removed from the sockets using specialized instruments. After the extraction is complete, the dentist will place stitches in the gums to promote healing.

More Questions about Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any question you have about wisdom teeth removal and address any issues unique to your specific situation. We look forward to seeing you.

What are reasons why wisdom teeth might need removal?

There are several reasons why wisdom teeth might need to be removed. Here are some of the most common reasons:

  • Lack of space: If there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to fully emerge, they can become impacted and cause pain or infection.
  • Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding, shifting, and damage to adjacent teeth.
  • Angle of growth: If wisdom teeth grow at an angle, they can cause pain, discomfort, and damage to other teeth.
  • Decay and gum disease: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Cysts and tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors can develop around impacted wisdom teeth, causing pain and potential damage to the jawbone.

If you experience any of these symptoms or signs, it’s important to schedule a consultation with our Scarborough dentist to determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.

Transcript
wisdom teeth are the final set of mullers aka the back teeth that we get in our mouths they can erupt or grow in several different ways they can erupt straight into the mouth without causing any type of wisdom teeth symptoms if you're lucky which is great and that's what's happening on the top wisdom tooth here it's coming in nice and straight however as you can see on the bottom wisdom tooth they can also sometimes only partially erupt which is where a portion of the tooth is visible but the remainder of it is submerged down in your gums and Bone which is not good because that area of the gum is super prone to infection now another way it can erupt is at an angle and it would get stuck against the second mullers the mullers right in front of it so when that happens since they are buding up against your Healthy tooth in front of it those healthy teeth can now become damaged and develop cavities be more prone to gum disease and then you'll be losing both teeth instead of just the wisdom tooth so to prevent this impacted wisdom teeth are often best removed before they ever interfere with the teeth in front of them then there are also situations where the tooth is fully impacted and it doesn't have the ability to erupt it might be wedged at an angle into the tooth next to it blocked by bone or surrounded in a cyst but no matter what appears to be going on with your wisdom teeth when you're clinically looking in your mouth you'll need a Panoramic X-Ray to confirm exactly how they are sitting on your bone you won't know until you could see underneath with an x-ray and one of the major reasons you would need an extraction that you would need to get them pulled is because there isn't room in your mouth for wisdom teeth that's that's the main reason usually there's not enough room if there is enough room sometimes they still are just too far back there and it's too hard for you to properly brush and FL loss it's too hard to reach which makes them more prone to infections such as tooth decay and gum disease so those are some of the reasons you might need to get them extracted in any case if you do need them extracted you'll always at minimum be numbed up with local anesthetic if you're someone who is nervous about the numbing injection you can always request nitrous oxide AKA laughing gas prior to the shot so then you'll be more relaxed and you won't even notice the shot is happening often times if you're getting all four of your wisdom teeth out at once they'll recommend you'll go under something called Twilight sedation which is an IV anesthetic in addition to the numbing injection so you would also be numb if you have severe anxiety they might even recommend oral sedation and or general anesthesia just depending on your individual situation so after the wisdom teeth are extracted they might Place medication or a bone graft down into the socket then suture the extraction site closed sutures are usually dissolvable or you will need to get them removed in the next week your dentist will let you know and if you want to learn more about recovery instructions and how to heal quickly I'll link my post up video in the description box below and until then please like And subscribe and turn on your notifications and if you want more teeth talk we can hang out on Instagram at teeth talkgirl peace love and teeth [Music]

What are impacted wisdom teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth do not have enough space to grow properly and become stuck or partially emerged in the gum tissue or jawbone. Here is an overview of the symptoms and treatment options for impacted wisdom teeth:

Symptoms:

  • Pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth
  • Swelling and redness of the gums
  • Difficulty opening the mouth
  • Bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Headaches and earaches

Treatment:

  • If you are experiencing symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, it is important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon. They may recommend removing the impacted teeth to prevent further complications.
  • Prior to the procedure, local or general anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort during the process.
  • The teeth will then be gently loosened and removed from the sockets, and stitches may be placed to promote healing.
  • After the procedure, your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort and prevent infection.

More Questions about Impacted Wisdom teeth?
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any questions you have about impacted wisdom teeth extraction.

What is pericoronitis and how is it treated?

Pericoronitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, most commonly the wisdom teeth. It occurs when bacteria and debris get trapped under the gum flap covering the tooth, leading to infection and swelling. Here is an overview of how pericoronitis is treated:

Symptoms:

  • Pain and tenderness in the affected area
  • Swelling and redness of the gum tissue
  • Difficulty opening the mouth
  • Bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Fever and swollen lymph nodes (in severe cases)

Treatment:

  • The first step in treating pericoronitis is to clean the area thoroughly to remove any debris and bacteria.
  • Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and reduce inflammation.
  • Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen may be recommended to manage pain and discomfort.
  • Warm salt water rinses can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
  • In some cases, the dentist may need to perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the gum flap covering the tooth, allowing it to fully emerge and preventing future episodes of pericoronitis.

Call us at Finch Midland Dental if you are experiencing symptoms of pericoronitis. You may need treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and causing further complications.

How can I prepare for wisdom teeth extractions?

Preparing for a wisdom teeth removal procedure can help ensure a smooth and successful surgery and recovery. Here are some tips on how to prepare:

  • Consult with our dentist: Before the procedure, it is important to consult with our dentist to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions or medications you are taking that may affect the procedure or recovery process.
  • Arrange for transportation: You will likely be under the influence of anesthesia during the procedure and will not be able to drive home. Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the dental office.
  • Plan for downtime: Plan to take a few days off work or school to allow for a proper recovery period.
  • Stock up on supplies: Before the procedure, purchase soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies, as well as ice packs to help reduce swelling.
  • Follow pre-operative instructions: Your dentist will provide you with instructions on what to do and what to avoid before the procedure. This may include avoiding food and drink for a certain amount of time before the procedure.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for your wisdom teeth removal procedure and set yourself up for a successful recovery. Schedule a consult with our dentist to determine if a wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.

Key Benefits

Why Choose This Treatment

Prevents Crowding and Shifting

Removing impacted wisdom teeth eliminates the pressure they place on neighboring teeth, preventing crowding and alignment problems that can affect your bite.

Eliminates Impaction Pain

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause persistent jaw pain, headaches, and pressure. Extraction provides immediate relief and prevents the pain from returning.

Reduces Infection Risk

Partially erupted wisdom teeth create openings where bacteria thrive. Removal eliminates the site of recurring infections and reduces the risk of abscess formation.

Sedation Options Available

For anxious patients or complex cases, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire procedure.

Comprehensive Pre-Op Evaluation

your dentist uses 3D cone beam imaging to map exact tooth and root positions before surgery, resulting in a safer, more predictable procedure and faster healing.

Not sure if your wisdom teeth need to come out? your dentist will review your 3D x-rays and give you an honest evaluation — many wisdom teeth can be monitored safely, while others require prompt removal to protect your oral health.
Is This Right For You

Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Right for You?

Wisdom Teeth Removal is a good fit if you are:

  • Patients with impacted wisdom teeth
  • Patients with recurring infection around a wisdom tooth (pericoronitis)
  • Patients with wisdom teeth crowding or damaging neighbors
  • Young adults (teens to late 20s) — roots are shorter, recovery is easier

This may not be the right option if:

  • Fully erupted, healthy, functional wisdom teeth
  • Patients with certain bleeding disorders (needs medical clearance)
Step By Step

What to Expect During Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Visit

Here is exactly what happens at your appointment at Finch Midland Dental. Knowing each step makes the experience far less intimidating — and lets you relax knowing what comes next.

  1. 1. CBCT imaging and planning. A 3D scan shows the exact position of each wisdom tooth root relative to the inferior alveolar nerve. our team plans the surgical approach to protect the nerve.
  2. 2. Numbing and sedation. Local anesthesia is administered. If you chose nitrous oxide or oral sedation, it's started now. You stay comfortable throughout.
  3. 3. Extraction. For simple cases, the tooth is loosened and lifted out. For impacted teeth, a small incision in the gum and careful sectioning of the tooth is needed. You feel pressure, not pain.
  4. 4. Suture and care. Dissolvable stitches close the area if needed. our team gives you ice, gauze, and clear after-care instructions. Most patients are back to normal activities in 3–5 days.
Common Concerns

Common Concerns About Wisdom Teeth Removal

These are the questions patients at Finch Midland Dental ask most often before committing to treatment. our team addresses each one honestly at your consultation.

"Do wisdom teeth always need to come out?"

No. If they erupt fully, are functional, and don't damage neighbors, our team often leaves them in place. Removal is recommended when they're impacted, crowding, causing infection, or at high risk of problems.

"Won't the surgery be painful?"

Local anesthesia and optional sedation keep you comfortable during the procedure. Post-op soreness is typical for 3–5 days and is managed with pain medication and ice.

"What are the risks with the nerve?"

Nerve injury is the most concerning risk for lower wisdom teeth. our team uses CBCT imaging to map the exact nerve position before surgery, dramatically reducing this risk.

What to Know

Risks and Considerations of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Every procedure has tradeoffs, and transparent conversation about them is part of informed consent. our team reviews these at your consultation and answers every question before treatment begins.

  • Dry socket (loss of blood clot with intense pain 2–4 days post-op)
  • Infection at the extraction site
  • Nerve injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (lower teeth) — minimized by CBCT planning
  • Sinus involvement for upper wisdom teeth
  • Prolonged swelling or bleeding in some patients
Our Clinical Approach

How We Approach Wisdom Teeth Removal at Finch Midland Dental

Wisdom teeth do not always need to come out. If they erupt fully, maintain good hygiene, and do not damage neighboring teeth, they are often left alone. But if they are impacted, causing infection, or crowding other teeth, removal is usually the right call — and earlier is easier than later.

CBCT imaging is essential for wisdom tooth extraction. It shows the exact position of the roots in relation to the inferior alveolar nerve — which runs just below the lower wisdom teeth. Seeing that in 3D before surgery allows a safer, cleaner extraction.

Reviewed by our team · Finch Midland Dental, Scarborough, ON

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

No, wisdom teeth cannot grow back once they are removed. The tooth roots are completely extracted, so there is no way for the teeth to regrow.

It is possible to remove all four wisdom teeth at once, but the number of teeth removed at once depends on the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the case, and the dentist’s recommendation.

The procedure itself is typically painless due to the use of anesthesia. However, some discomfort and swelling are common following the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort.

It is recommended to wait a few hours after the procedure before eating or drinking anything. Soft, cold foods like yogurt, applesauce, and ice cream are typically recommended during the first few days of recovery.

Yes. At our Scarborough dental office we offer wisdom teeth removal to patients from Scarborough and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Extractions are performed under local anesthesia with optional sedation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-procedure soreness is managed with pain medication and cold compresses, typically resolving within 5–7 days.

Most patients return to normal activities within 3–5 days. Soft foods are recommended for the first few days, and strenuous activity should be avoided for a week to prevent dry socket.

Possible risks include dry socket, infection, nerve injury (for lower wisdom teeth), sinus involvement (for upper wisdom teeth), and prolonged swelling. CBCT planning and careful surgical technique minimize these risks.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wisdom tooth extraction carries risks including dry socket, infection, nerve injury (particularly for impacted lower wisdom teeth), sinus complications (upper), and prolonged swelling. CBCT planning reduces these risks substantially. Consult our team or a qualified dental professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual results may vary.

Learn More About WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

Contact our office to discuss how this treatment can help you achieve your dental health goals.

Book NowCall (416) 297-6109