What Are Wisdom Teeth & Why Do We Have Them?

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars. They're a natural part of the body, but they grow in a lot later than the second set of molars. Most people have their second set of molars by the age of 12-13. However, wisdom teeth usually don’t grow in until the age of 17-25. 

Our ancestors had broader jaws than us, and could handle this third set of molars without any issues. But modern humans have smaller jaws, and this means that, for lots of people, this final set of molars won’t fit properly. The wisdom teeth may not erupt all the way, grow in sideways, and even damage the nearby teeth. For this reason, wisdom teeth are often removed once they erupt. If you think you may need wisdom teeth extraction in Austin, contact us today.

wisdom teeth extractions in Austin

We Offer

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Basic extractions

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Surgical extractions

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Oral conscious sedation

How We Extract Unhealthy Wisdom Teeth

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Oral exam

First, your dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to check on your wisdom teeth, and determine if they need to be extracted. Not everyone needs wisdom teeth extractions. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, you may be able to keep them without issues.

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Preparation

If your dentist recommends an extraction, they will clean and numb the treatment site. We also offer oral conscious sedation to help you stay comfortable during your treatment.

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Basic extraction

Basic extractions are used for wisdom teeth that have fully emerged from your gums. Your dentist will use special tools to loosen the tooth in the socket, then pull it out of the socket. Then, they will clean and suture the extraction site so that it will heal properly.

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Surgical extraction

Surgical extractions are needed for wisdom teeth that are “impacted” and have not fully emerged from the gums. Your dentist will make an incision in the gums. Then, they will cut the tooth into small pieces, and extract it piece-by-piece. Once they have removed the entire tooth, they will clean and suture the surgical site.

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Recovery

You can get back to your normal routine within a day or two. However, you will need to follow your dentist's instructions as you recover. You’ll need to eat soft foods, follow special steps to clean the extraction site, and more. It takes about two weeks to fully recover and heal from your wisdom tooth extraction.

Sedation Options

Local numbing

Local numbing uses a needle to deliver a powerful anesthetic to your treatment site. This means you won’t feel a thing during the extraction process. You can stay comfortable, and avoid pain and discomfort as your wisdom teeth are pulled.

Nitrous sedation

We offer Nitrous Oxide sedation, commonly known as laughing gas, for patients who need a little more help relaxing during their procedure. With this type of sedation, you’ll be awake the entire time and the gas is administered through a small nosepiece that is worn during the procedure.

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Care You Can Count On

See Why Families Are Smiling

Dr. Baic and staff are absolutely amazing!From setting up a same day appointment on a Friday evening to completing a wisdom tooth extraction — the process was simple and smooth. Dr. Baic reviewed and discussed my x-rays. Then she talked me through the extraction process — before, during, and after — which brought me comfort and reassurance. Also, as she numbed my gums, I didn’t feel a thing.I’m so grateful for their guidance and kind service. Their staff is personable and compassionate. Though I arrived horrified getting my tooth pulled, I was relaxed (and numb) by the time I left. I highly recommend their service and will return if/when needed with confidence!

Elora K.

Great experience. Front seat girl was so cool and Dr. Min and his assistant did an amazing job. Got 3 impacted wisdom teeth and didn’t feel a thing. Highly recommend.

Garrett K.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about wisdom teeth and extractions? We’ve got the answers you need. Read on, and get all the details.

Why Do I Need To Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
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You only need to have your wisdom teeth removed if they're not healthy, and they're causing issues with your oral health. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, they don’t need to be removed. But if they're causing pain, discomfort, or damage to your other teeth, your dentist will likely recommend wisdom tooth extraction.

My Wisdom Teeth Are Hurting Me, Is This An Emergency?
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Yes. If your wisdom teeth hurt, this is likely a sign that they're not growing into your mouth properly, and this is an emergency. Left untreated, unhealthy wisdom teeth can cause problems like tooth infections, damage to the surrounding teeth, and serious pain and discomfort. Contact us as soon as possible at (512) 961-6200 to schedule the emergency care you need in Austin.

Care when you need it most.