How Long Does One Wisdom Tooth Extraction Take?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure performed to alleviate pain, prevent future complications, and maintain oral health. If you’re scheduled for a wisdom tooth extraction, you may be curious about the duration of the procedure. Should you have any other questions or concerns for our team regarding wisdom tooth removal, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Complexity of the Extraction

The duration of a wisdom tooth extraction depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case. If the tooth has fully erupted, is easily accessible, and does not require extensive surgical techniques, the extraction process can be relatively quick. This type of extraction typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Position and Impaction

Wisdom teeth can become impacted, or partially or fully trapped beneath the gumline or jawbone. In such instances, the extraction procedure might involve more complexity and consume additional time. The position and degree of impaction directly affect the extraction’s duration. The removal of an impacted wisdom tooth through surgical means can span from 45 minutes to an hour or more.

Sedation and Anesthesia

The choice of sedation or anesthesia can affect the duration of the extraction. Typically, our team administers local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, guaranteeing a pain-free procedure. In certain situations, we might utilize additional sedation techniques like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which could lengthen the overall appointment time.

Surgical Techniques

In certain situations, Dr. Holt may need to employ additional surgical techniques to remove the wisdom tooth. This can involve making an incision in the gum tissue, removing bone, or dividing the tooth into sections for easier extraction. Complex surgical extractions tend to take longer than simple extractions due to the additional steps involved.

Individual Variations

It’s important to note that the duration of a wisdom tooth extraction can vary among individuals. Factors such as the patient’s anatomy, healing capacity, and response to anesthesia can influence the timeframe. Each case is unique, and our team can provide an estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Interested in learning more about wisdom teeth removal and our other restorative dental services? Please call us!

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Categorised in: Sedation Dentistry, Wisdom Tooth Extraction