Why Teeth Need to Be Removed
A tooth may need to be extracted when it is badly decayed, damaged beyond repair, infected, loose from gum disease or in the way of other treatment. Wisdom teeth, the last teeth to come in, are among the most common teeth to be removed. When they are impacted, which means they cannot fully come through the gum, they can cause pain, swelling and infection, and they can crowd your other teeth.
Signs You May Need an Extraction
- Pain or swelling at the back of the mouth.
- A wisdom tooth that is partly through the gum, tender or repeatedly infected.
- Gum redness or bad taste around a back tooth.
- A tooth that is badly broken, decayed or loose.
- Crowding that your dentist believes is related to wisdom teeth.
What We Offer
- Removal of wisdom teeth, with the option of removing all four in a single visit when appropriate.
- Other tooth extractions and minor oral surgery.
- 3D imaging when needed to plan the removal of impacted teeth.
- Laughing gas and oral sedation options.
- A detailed recovery plan and a 24-hour callback.
How the Procedure Works
- Exam and imaging: your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays, using 3D imaging when needed for impacted teeth.
- Planning: we explain the plan, the sedation options and the expected recovery, and give you a written cost estimate.
- Numbing and sedation: the area is numbed, and sedation is available if you would like to stay relaxed.
- Removal: the tooth is gently removed. Impacted teeth may need to be sectioned or removed with a small surgical approach.
- Aftercare: we give you written instructions for healing, and we call to check on you.
Before Your Visit
- Tell us about your medications, allergies and medical history.
- Follow our instructions about eating and drinking, especially if you will have sedation.
- Arrange a ride home if you will be having oral sedation, as advised.
- Plan to rest for the rest of the day and, if possible, for a couple of days afterward.
- Stock up on soft foods, such as yogurt, soup and mashed potatoes.
After Your Treatment
- Bite gently on the gauze as directed to help a blood clot form.
- Expect some swelling and soreness. A cold compress on the outside of the cheek can help in the first day.
- Take pain relief as directed by your dentist.
- Eat soft, cool foods and avoid hot drinks, straws, smoking and vigorous rinsing for the first days, as advised, so the clot stays in place.
- Keep the rest of your mouth clean, and rinse gently as instructed.
- Call the clinic if you have heavy bleeding, swelling that gets worse after a few days, fever, a bad taste or discharge, or pain that is getting worse.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and you will receive a written cost estimate before treatment begins. We bill your insurance directly so you pay only your portion. Financing options and monthly payment plans are available.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental
- Wisdom teeth and other extractions done in the office, with no referral needed for most cases.
- Laughing gas and oral sedation options.
- A detailed recovery plan and a 24-hour callback.
- Open seven days a week, with early and late hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Some wisdom teeth come in well and can be kept clean. Your dentist will examine them and recommend removal only when it is needed.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The area is numbed, and sedation is available, so you should feel pressure rather than pain during the procedure. Some soreness and swelling afterward is normal and can be managed with pain relief.
How long is the recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Healing varies from person to person. Many people feel better within a few days, though full healing takes longer. Your dentist will give you a recovery plan.
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Often yes. Single-visit removal of all four wisdom teeth is available when appropriate. Your dentist will advise what is best for you.
Do I need to see an oral surgeon?
For most cases, no. We perform wisdom teeth removal and other minor oral surgery in our office. Your dentist will tell you if a more complex case needs a referral.
What can I eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days, and avoid straws and hot or crunchy foods as advised.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket can occur if the blood clot is lost from the extraction site, which causes pain a few days later. Following your aftercare instructions helps reduce the risk. Call us if your pain gets worse after a few days.