Wisdom Teeth Removal in Atlanta, GA

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but when they don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can lead to complications such as:

• Impaction – Wisdom teeth can become trapped beneath the gums, leading to pain, swelling, and infection.
• Crowding – As wisdom teeth push against neighboring teeth, they can cause alignment issues.
• Infections & Cysts – Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can thrive, increasing the risk of gum infections and cysts.
• Tooth Decay & Gum Disease – Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean properly, making them more prone to cavities and infections.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, you may need wisdom teeth removal to prevent serious complications.

Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

Not sure if you need your wisdom teeth removed? Common symptoms include:

• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Swollen or bleeding gums around the wisdom teeth
• Jaw stiffness or discomfort
• Recurring infections near the back molars
• Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth

If you’re unsure whether you need an extraction, Dr. Dunson can assess your wisdom teeth during a dental exam and recommend the best course of action.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

At Dunson Dental Design, we make the wisdom tooth extraction process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation & X-Rays

We will take digital X-rays to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is necessary.

Sedation & Numbing

To ensure a pain-free experience, we offer:

• Local anesthesia to numb the area
• Nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas) for relaxation
• IV sedation for patients with anxiety or complex extractions

Tooth Extraction

• Simple extraction – If the tooth has fully erupted, it can be gently loosened and removed.
• Surgical extraction – If the tooth is impacted, a small incision is made in the gum, and the tooth may be sectioned for easier removal.

Post-Procedure Care & Recovery

After the extraction, we will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients recover fully within a few days to a week.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery & Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for a quick and comfortable recovery. Follow these tips to heal properly:

• Bite down on gauze to control bleeding for the first few hours.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup for the first few days.
• Avoid straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing to prevent dry socket (a painful condition caused by the loss of the protective blood clot).
• Take pain medication as directed to manage any discomfort.

Most swelling and discomfort subside within 3–5 days, and full healing typically occurs within one to two weeks. If you experience excessive pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection, contact our office immediately.

Do You Need to Replace Wisdom Teeth?

Unlike other extracted teeth, wisdom teeth do not need to be replaced, as they are not essential for chewing or function. However, if you need an extraction for other teeth, we offer dental implants and dental bridges as long-term solutions.

Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation in Atlanta

If your wisdom teeth are causing pain or crowding, don’t wait for complications to arise. At Dunson Dental Design, we provide expert wisdom teeth removal with gentle care and sedation options for a stress-free experience.

Call (404) 897-1699 or schedule an appointment online today for a consultation.