Wisdom teeth are notorious for wreaking havoc on our smiles. At Middletown Commons Family Dental, we offer gentle wisdom teeth removal to preserve your oral health and protect your existing teeth. Wondering if you need your wisdom teeth removed? Contact our office to schedule an X-ray and exam!

Wisdom Teeth 101

The third set of molars, wisdom teeth, erupt in the very back of the jaw. Wisdom teeth are now considered vestigial (functionless) teeth. Our ancestors needed wisdom teeth to help grind plant tissues and tough meats. Now, thanks to societal advancements, they are no longer needed for us to be able to eat our food. Over time and through evolution, our jaws have also become much smaller, which means most people do not have room in their jawbone for their wisdom teeth to properly erupt.

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs

When do you need wisdom teeth removal?

While every patient is different, there are some common issues that often accompany wisdom teeth. These issues usually require wisdom tooth removal in order to safeguard your smile.

• Crowding Other Teeth
• Erupting at Angle
• Impaction
• Infection
• Small Jaw

If you’re experiencing any discomfort near the area where wisdom teeth erupt, please call us to book an in-person examination. If your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted yet, we can also use X-rays to determine whether or not they’ll cause problems in the future and remove them before they have a chance to cause problems!

What can you eat after you remove your wisdom teeth?

We advise sticking to soft foods for about a week after your procedure or until the extraction site feels less sensitive. Yogurt, warm soup, mashed potatoes, and pasta are just some options to choose from while you heal. Make sure that you AVOID straws. Straws can cause dry socket and lead to infection.

Can you be sedated during wisdom teeth surgery?

Yes. We’ll discuss your sedation options at your pre-op consultation. We use a numbing agent for all of our patients around the extraction sites and if necessary, any sedation that’s decided on beforehand. We work with a gentle touch and monitor your sensitivity levels throughout to ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the entire procedure.