impacted wisdom tooth

Wisdom Teeth Removal

For most of us, when our wisdom teeth come in, there is not enough room for them, which can lead to painful symptoms. Removing them can lead to several dental benefits, including pain relief and a reduced risk of infection, decay, or misalignment. At Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, serving greater Phoenix, we perform every aspect of wisdom teeth removal. Ready to learn more?

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that tend to erupt during your teens or early twenties. If they come in at a proper angle, the teeth are just as helpful as your other molars. However, many patients' jaws do not have enough room for the wisdom teeth, so they come in at an improper angle and require extraction.

 

When wisdom teeth are impacted, it means that they disturb surrounding teeth or other tissues. They often remain under the gum tissue, which can cause pain, swelling, and misalignment of surrounding teeth. A wisdom tooth can also be partially impacted, meaning it only partially erupts out of the gums.

Wisdom teeth are not necessary, so they do not have to be replaced with a solution such as a dental implant-supported dental crown.

​The Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Less Pain

When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can cause painful swelling in the gums and jaw. Removing impacted wisdom teeth can relieve this pain.

Better Health

Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Removing them makes oral health easier to maintain.

No Misalignment

When a wisdom tooth erupts at an angle, it can create a domino effect that pushes all of your teeth out of alignment. Remove the wisdom teeth to help your smile stay straight and healthy.

Wisdom Teeth Removal at Dental Works

At Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, Drs. Terry Lee and Mary Ann Work help their patients maintain good oral health and beautiful smiles through wisdom teeth extraction. While other dentists may need to send patients to a different practice, our dentists have the skill, expertise, and technology to perform all aspects of wisdom teeth removal at our office.

We make wisdom teeth extraction as pain-free as possible through sedation. We also cater to patients with special needs. If it is time for you or your child to have a wisdom tooth removed, you should trust your care to experienced dentists who value your comfort. Schedule an appointment today by contacting us online or calling (480) 391-0099. We welcome patients from throughout greater Phoenix.

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"5 stars isn’t enough."

1

Aaron Brown

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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I had never been a big fan of the dentist. Until I went to Dental Works. Dr. Terry and Dr. Mary Anne as well their entire staff are top notch. From wisdom teeth removal, Invisalign treatment and cleaning all are done with the utmost care. My teeth have never looked better!

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SAUL LOPEZ

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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Had two root canals done and crowns put. I can’t emphasize enough how painless the procedure was. Dr. Terry and the staff were outstanding. It’s a very relaxing place, Dr. Terry and the staff will crack jokes and talk with you so it lightens the mood and makes the procedure a breeze. I’m thankful that I chose this dentist. 5 stars isn’t enough to describe the level of expertise and knowledge! 

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Don't Be Afraid Treatment Is Virtually Painless

Many patients are nervous before wisdom teeth surgery because they expect it to be painful. Thanks to our ultra-modern approach, the procedure can be virtually pain-free.

Treatment With Minimal Discomfort And Maximum Effectiveness

Our Scottsdale team understands the important role that the latest dental techniques and technologies play in the comfortable treatment of each of our patients. Here is how we give our patients the best possible experience when performing wisdom tooth removal:
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Precision

Our cone beam computer tomography scanner provides a non-invasive way to create an incredibly detailed image of your teeth and jaw, which can contribute to highly precise wisdom tooth extraction procedures and smooth recovery periods.

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Comfort

Because many patients who receive wisdom tooth extraction treatment can feel anxious about the procedure, we offer various levels of sedation to help you feel your best while under our care. Our sedation services include oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide, which can give you relief from dental anxiety, and intravenous sedation, which helps patients achieve deep relaxation during longer treatments. Patients who receive sedation must arrange an escort to drive them home safely.

Protect Your Health with Wisdom Teeth Removal

Dr. Terry Lee Work has performed thousands of wisdom teeth removals over his career. The best time to have wisdom teeth removed is between the ages of 17 and 21 in order to avoid a dangerous infection or impacted teeth. At Dental Works, our dentists use advanced panoramic radiographs to evaluate and plan wisdom teeth removal so that patients can enjoy a quick recovery.

​How Do I Know if I Require Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

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Most often, problematic teeth are noticed by a dentist before they cause too much complication. At a routine checkup with either of our dentists, they will notice any wisdom teeth that may require removal through x-rays or digital scans. However, if you have not seen a dentist in a while, your wisdom teeth may cause noticeable symptoms. You should consider calling our Scottsdale office for a consultation if you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined below.

Signs of Wisdom Tooth Complications

In addition to pain in the back of your jaw, these are signs that you may be experiencing complications related to your wisdom teeth:

Chronic Bad Breath

If you have a persistent bad taste in your mouth or chronic bad breath, you may be suffering from an infection. Infections can be caused by an impacted wisdom tooth.

Inflamed Gums

An impacted wisdom tooth can cause the gums to swell and become red and painful. Inflamed gums may also be an indicator of gum disease, which can be serious.

Cavities

Cavities often form on wisdom teeth because they are hard to reach and properly clean while brushing. 

Sinus Issues

If the wisdom teeth in your upper jaw become impacted, they can put painful pressure on your sinuses, which can also lead to headaches and congestion.

Crooked Teeth

If you are noticing your teeth becoming crooked, it may be a result of wisdom teeth in the back of your mouth pushing all of your teeth out of alignment.

Don't Delay Your Treatment 

Wisdom tooth extraction may seem intimidating for many patients, but this common procedure can save you time and money and prevent dental complications down the line. Leaving problematic wisdom teeth untreated can lead to the development of cysts that can damage your jawbone and gum tissue, or cause the entire row of teeth to shift, potentially requiring orthodontic work.

Our Scottsdale team welcomes patients from all over the Greater Phoenix area who are in need of wisdom tooth extraction. If you are ready to put an end to your dental pain and prevent further complications, request an appointment today. Contact our office online or call us at:

(480) 391-0099

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Scottsdale Always Says Great Things

1

Dottie Henshaw

2023

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5 stars for friendliness, great skills and an office with a “ happy vibe” during visits! DH

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Trish Shelly

2023

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She and her staff were very professional and polite. Her competence and experience were evident as Dental Works provides state of the art equipment for diagnosis, treatment, and comfort.

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Wisdom Teeth Extraction Timeline

The extraction process can be completed in one visit to our dental office in Scottsdale, AZ. We do not need to refer you to an oral surgeon at an outside practice. Here is a detailed breakdown of the procedure:

Imaging

To ensure we extract the tooth or teeth as precisely and efficiently as possible, we will make a 3D digital model of your teeth and jaws using our cone beam scanner.
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Sedation

Based on your preferences, we can apply a local anesthetic to the area around the wisdom tooth, provide a relaxing sedative that can help you achieve deeper comfort, or both.
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Incision

The dentist will make an incision in your gums.
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Extraction

The dentist will carefully extract the tooth. In some situations, the dentist may have to separate the tooth into smaller pieces before removal.
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Stitches

The dentist will close the incision using dissolvable sutures.
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Gauze

The dentist will place pressure on the site of the extraction using a small piece of wet cotton gauze.
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Home Recovery

After the procedure is complete, you can return home and begin recovery. If you received a heavy sedative, you will need someone to drive you home.
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"LOVE THEM"

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Keith Miller

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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Great attention to detail from the Doctor and staff. They use state of the art technology as well and presented a great treatment plan with no pressure, that we are going to address over time. Great experience!

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Ben Herlinger

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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If you go to the same dentist for almost 30 years, it says that you are more than satisfied. They let you feel you are a part of their family. LOVE THEM

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Early Removal Offers Advantages

It is easier to remove wisdom teeth when patients are 25 years old or younger. This is the case for many reasons. Younger patients typically have more flexible bone. Their wisdom tooth roots also tend to not be fully developed. Additionally, removal for younger patients carries less of a chance of nerve damage. 

While there are indisputable advantages to early removal, we can remove wisdom teeth no matter a patient's age. Our advanced technology and heightened skill allows us to effectively handle this issue for all sorts of Scottsdale patients. 

Removal May Be Wise Even Without Pain

Just because your wisdom teeth aren't causing pain doesn't mean they won't in the future. The truth is, having your wisdom teeth removed before symptoms appear can help you avoid oral health concerns and discomfort. To be proactive about wisdom tooth removal, call (480) 391-0099 or write to our Scottsdale team. 

Recovery Timeline

Many people are nervous about the recovery process after wisdom teeth extraction. However, if you follow Dr. Work's recommendations, recovery can go smoothly with no complications. Many patients can return to normal activities the day after the procedure, but it typically takes about two weeks to fully heal.

First 24 Hours

Blood clots should form in the sockets after the teeth are extracted. Some blood may ooze at the extraction site. During this first day, you should not brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, spit, or use mouthwash.
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Two to Three Days

You can expect some swelling and bruising. Use an ice pack or heating pad to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. You can gently brush your teeth, and potentially begin eating more solid foods, depending on your comfort level.
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One Week

Don't use a straw during the first week, or else you may dislodge your blood clots. 
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Ten Days

By now, most of your symptoms should have subsided. 
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Two Weeks

Bruising is usually the last symptom to fade. After two weeks, you can expect to be fully recovered.
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When to Call Us After Your Procedure

Some degree of discomfort and bleeding should be expected for the first few days after surgery. After your procedure, Dr. Work will explain exactly what you should expect. You only need to give us a call at (480) 391-0099 if you experience the following complications:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Fever
  • Swelling that becomes worse after the second or third day
  • Persistent bad taste in your mouth
  • Lasting numbness
  • Blood or pus when you blow your nose
  • Severe pain that is not relieved by pain medications

Show me how the procedure works...

wisdom tooth removal

A Common Procedure with Important Benefits

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental procedures, with 85 percent of adults requiring the treatment during their lifetime. However, just because it is common does not mean that all dentists provide the same level of care.

At Dental Works in Scottsdale, AZ, we truly care for the wellbeing of every patient that comes through our doors. Our technology, advanced techniques, and experience allow us to provide excellent service that puts patients at ease. Our service is also extremely convenient, as we can handle your entire wisdom tooth extraction at our office, so you don't have to arrange a separate appointment with an oral surgeon at another practice.

If you require wisdom teeth extraction, don't wait. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that you may develop serious problems elsewhere in your smile. If you wait too long, you may even lose some of the surrounding teeth and require treatment with dental implants.

To relieve pain and prevent the development of more serious dental issues, schedule wisdom teeth removal with Dental Works today! You can schedule your appointment by contacting us online or by giving us a call. We welcome patients from throughout greater Phoenix.

(480) 391-0099

Why Patients Choose Us For Dental Care for the Greater Phoenix Area

1

Kirk Gould

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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This is a premiere dental organization. Everything is top notch. The staff have fun and they do incredible work. Highly recommended. Highly skilled. Very professional.

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Donald Kenney

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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My whole family goes to Dental Works We always have a great experience. doctors and staff are all very caring.

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The Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Our dentists are experts at extracting teeth, but any invasive procedure involves some degree of risk. Wisdom tooth removal is no exception, and you should be aware of the risks specific to the procedure: 

Infection

There is a possibility of the extraction site becoming infected after surgery. Contact us if you experience unusually intense pain or a fever.

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Dry Socket

Dry socket occurs when a blood clot fails to form or becomes dislodged. This prevents the socket from healing correctly and can result in pain that lasts for several days. If you look into the socket and see the jawbone, this is a good indicator of dry socket, and you should contact us to address the issue.

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Nerve Damage

During extraction, the nerves close to the tooth root may be bruised or damaged. This can result in numbness and loss of sensation around the extraction site that may last for several days. Nerves are more likely to be harmed by inexperienced oral surgeons or dentists, which is why it is important to choose reputable dental professionals with years of experience. 

Scottsdale Loves Dental Works

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Fred Bockelman

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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No pain with extraction..feeling great and no bleeding after about 6 hours..slept great overnight JFB

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Jerry & Larissa Getz

Scottsdale, AZ

2023

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I can't say enough about the whole staff! I've never had a Dr. of any kind call me personally the next morning to ask how I was feeling. Yes it was that bad!!!! Please use them!!!!!!

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​The Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal

The cost of your procedure will depend on the severity of your condition, the number of teeth you need to have removed, and options such as sedation. As it's a necessary procedure for your dental health, dental insurance plans usually cover some or all of the cost of wisdom teeth extraction. 

cost of wisdom tooth removal

If you require wisdom teeth extraction, but are hesitant because of cost, remember that this procedure will actually save you money in the long run. If you ignore a problematic wisdom tooth, it can lead to serious dental issues that may eventually require more expensive treatments, such as the placement of dental implants or even a full mouth reconstruction, which are both far costlier treatments.

At Dental Works, we work with patients to make treatment as affordable as possible. We accept all insurance plans and provide financing through CareCredit® and Sunbit. For more information on what your specific case might cost, contact us online or call us at (480) 391-0099.

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Dental Works

Drs. Terry Lee Work and Mary Ann Work are the dentists of choice for many families throughout Greater Scottsdale. That's because our dentists:

  • Are affiliated with ICOI and the American Dental Association
  • Provide sedation dentistry for improved comfort and accommodation of special needs
  • Offer CareCredit® and Sunbit financing
  • Provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages

To schedule your consultation, contact us online or call us at (480) 391-0099.

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