The short answer
Wisdom teeth usually come in during the late teens or early twenties. They often need to come out when they are impacted, coming in at an angle, or too far back to keep clean. Removal is done under local anesthetic, with sedation available. Swelling peaks in the first two days, and most people recover in one to two weeks.

Oral Surgery
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to develop, and for many patients, there simply isn't enough room in the jaw to accommodate them properly. When wisdom teeth lack sufficient space, they can become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully erupt through the gum line.
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a host of problems, including persistent pain, swelling, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. They may also contribute to cyst formation, gum disease, and crowding or misalignment of your existing teeth.
Even when wisdom teeth do erupt fully, their position at the very back of the mouth makes them particularly difficult to clean. As a result, they are especially prone to decay and periodontal disease, which can compromise your overall oral health.
Comfortable Care
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
At Scottsdale Dental Aesthetics, your comfort and safety are our top priorities throughout every step of the extraction process.
Examination & Imaging
We begin with a thorough examination and digital x-rays or CBCT imaging to assess the position, size, and orientation of your wisdom teeth and surrounding anatomy.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your imaging and oral health, we develop a personalized extraction plan. We discuss anesthesia and sedation options to ensure you are completely comfortable.
Gentle Extraction
Using precise techniques and modern instruments, we carefully remove the wisdom teeth. For impacted teeth, a small incision may be made to access the tooth safely.
Recovery Guidance
We provide detailed aftercare instructions, including tips for managing swelling, pain relief options, and guidance on diet and oral hygiene during healing.

Protect Your Smile
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Prevents Crowding & Misalignment
Removing wisdom teeth before they cause pressure helps preserve the alignment of your existing teeth and protects orthodontic investments.
Eliminates Pain & Infection Risk
Extracting impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth removes a common source of chronic pain, swelling, and recurring infections.
Protects Neighboring Teeth
Wisdom teeth can push against adjacent molars, causing root damage, decay, and bone loss. Early removal protects the teeth you rely on every day.
Improves Oral Hygiene
With wisdom teeth gone, brushing and flossing the back of your mouth becomes much easier, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Wisdom Teeth FAQ
Get answers to the most common questions about wisdom teeth removal.
Related treatments
Written by the Scottsdale Dental Aesthetics team. Treatment is provided by Dr. Omar Karaboulad, DMD and Dr. Richard Alverson, DDS.
Last updated . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Call (480) 991-3244 to ask about your own situation.
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