Wisdom Teeth Removal

Oral Examination for Extraction of Wisdom Teeth

With an oral examination and x-rays of the mouth, Dr. Zwickey and Dr. Allen can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are present or future potential problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our doctors are trained, licensed, and highly experienced in providing various types of anesthesia for patients.

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Call us with any questions about Wisdom Teeth Removal or make an appointment.

Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

If you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to fully erupt, a number of problems can happen. Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until the early twenties. Problems tend to occur with increasing frequency after the age of 30. Some of the possible problems related to not removing your wisdom teeth include:

A representation of a pericoronitis infection on a wisdom tooth

Infection:

The most frequent clinical problem we see is pericoronitis, (a localized gum infection). Without enough room for total eruption, the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth can become irritated and infected, resulting in recurrent pain, swelling, and problems with chewing and/or swallowing.

An example of a cyst formation on a wisdom tooth

Cyst Formation:

Non-infectious diseases may also arise in association with an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts are fluid-filled “balloons” inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth and slowly expand destroying adjacent jaw bone and occasionally teeth. They can be very difficult to treat if your wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.

An illustration of teeth crowding caused by a wisdom tooth

Possible Crowding:

Impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of your teeth. This is most noticeable with the front teeth, primarily the lower front teeth and is most commonly seen after a patient has had braces. There are a number of factors that cause teeth to crowd after braces or in early adulthood. Retained, impacted wisdom teeth may be a contributing factor. Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone.

A visual of a wisdom tooth damaging an adjacent tooth

Damage to Adjacent Teeth:

If there is inadequate room to clean around the wisdom tooth, the tooth directly in front, the second molar, can be adversely affected resulting in gum disease, bone loss around the tooth, and/or decay.

What if I don’t have my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager or young adult?

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.

What happens on the day wisdom teeth are removed?

Most people prefer to be unaware of the experience when they have their wisdom teeth removed and usually decide to be sedated. You will be provided with appropriate anesthesia options at your consultation. All outpatient surgery is performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Our office staff has the training, licensing, and experience to provide the various types of anesthesia. These services are provided in an environment of optimum safety, utilizing modern monitoring equipment and a well trained experienced staff. The Surgical Care Team, the office facilities, and the doctors are inspected on behalf of the Board of Dental Examiners on a regular basis.

On the day of your procedure, you will take medications to help minimize post-operative pain and swelling. We ask that a parent or responsible adult accompanies you to the office and plans to stay with you the rest of the day. The procedure will take about 30 to 60 minutes and you will probably be in the office for 90 minutes. Recent advances in medicine and technology allow patients to undergo wisdom tooth removal in a manner, which promotes rapid healing and minimal post-operative discomfort. State-of-the-art sterilization and infection control techniques are used at all times.

On the morning or afternoon of your surgery, it is essential that you have nothing to eat or drink (excluding prescription medications with a sip of water) for at least 6 hours (preferably longer). This does not mean you should try to fit in one “last meal” exactly six hours before your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications, including nausea and vomiting. Your procedure will be rescheduled if you have not heeded these guidelines. We may provide you with a prescription for pain medication at your consultation appointment, which for your convenience, can be filled in advance. When you are seated in the surgical room, we will make every effort to make you as comfortable as possible. If you are going to be sedated, we usually will place an IV in your left arm. This is a quick and nearly painless procedure that ensures optimal delivery of your medication. Local anesthesia is given to you afterwards to ensure comfort, and allow adequate time to travel home and rest. You will be sleepy for a significant portion of the day.

smiling teenage son with his mother

The Day of Treatment

Be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.

If your surgery requires stitches, these are usually the type that dissolve in 3 to 5 days and do not require removal. You may also notice a sensation of your gums feeling swollen and pulling away from your teeth. This is all part of the normal recovery, and will subside in several days.

Once the local anesthesia wears off, you may require prescription pain medication. Please try non-narcotic anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®) first, to see if that adequately treats your pain. If not, begin your other prescription pain medication. The local anesthesia may last until the following day, and should not be confused with an injury to your nerve. We recommend starting your post-operative diet with clear liquids such as jello and broths, gradually increasing in substance as your body permits.

We do not recommend using dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream or milkshakes on the day of surgery, as nausea and vomiting may develop in conjunction with the anesthetic and pain medication. If you are given antibiotics and you take birth control pills, please be aware that the birth control pills might become ineffective and take appropriate precautions.

What does wisdom tooth removal cost and is it covered by insurance?

The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. The oral surgeon’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.

What if I have questions before surgery?

At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Columbus Office Phone Number 706-596-1757 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.

A smiling woman

The Day of Treatment

Please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications.

Contact Us Today...

Call us with any questions about Wisdom Teeth Removal or make an appointment.

Our Patient Testimonials


West Georgia Oral and Facial Surgery

5 out of 5 stars based on 29 Wisdom Teeth Removal reviews.

Patient Review from Deaven W

One of the most pleasant experiences I’ve ever had at a drs office and that should say a lot since I was having my wisdom teeth removed! Very minimal swelling and no pain or soreness to date! Haven’t even had to take pain medicine. Since my husband and I drove 2 1/2 hours to go here, the dr gave me a little extra numbing meds to last me till we got back home and it worked perfectly.

- Deaven W

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from veronica e

The service was excellent !!

- veronica e

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Mary J

I highly recommend Dr. Mark Zwickey and his staff. I had two procedures done. One on October 12th for a Wisdom tooth extraction and the other on October 24th for a different tooth extraction. The staff was very friendly and courteous. Dr. Zwickey was very friendly and answered all my questions. They really care about their patients and also did a follow up courtesy call. I would definitely recommend them.

- Mary J

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Stacy H

They took very good care of me. Had no pain during healing. Awesome customer service

- Stacy H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Melanie S

Excellent treatment and removal from Dr. Zwickey of my daughter’s wisdom teeth. Will highly recommend!!

- Melanie S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Cassie S

The staff there were the most pleasant ever! I was nervous about getting my teeth pulled but they made me feel very comfortable and welcomed. Bunny and Ariel were the best as well as Dr. Z was great as well, any time I need teeth pulled I am returning to them.

- Cassie S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Jhamyah W

This was a GREAT experience, they made me very comfortable, they were very friendly & the procedure was so fast! I was put to sleep didn’t feel a thing! I HIGHLY recommend these amazing people! Thank you for taking care of me.

- Jhamyah W

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Kathi Y

Overall if myself or any other family member or friends ever needed an oral surgeon…this is the place to go!!

- Kathi Y

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Gabriela J

oral surgeon! I went two weeks ago to have all four of my wisdom teeth removed. I was super scared about this. It was my first time to experience surgery in general but the staff and Dr. Allen did not make my surgery difficult. They made sure I was relaxed before putting me under and the surgery only took about 45 minutes. Dr. Allen did an amazing job! I was able to recover with no problem while taking meds and following all post-operative instructions. I highly recommend them if you need your wisdom teeth removed. Thank you to Dr. Allen & his staff for making my wisdom teeth removal journey great!

- Gabriela J

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Stephanie J

Never had a tooth removal the team was so awesome I was in and out

- Stephanie J

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Carolyn H

This was one of the best dental experiences I have ever had! The staff was very caring and concerned about my comfort. Dr. Zwickey is professional and kind. I had no pain whatsoever and a nurse called me at home to make sure I was doing well.

- Carolyn H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Kerri B

I never thought I'd say it's a joy to visit a dental office. That was the case here. Dr. Zwickey and his team are a well-oiled machine. Everyone was very nice and professional. They made me feel welcome, comfortable and confident with their services. Their protocols made for a safe, painless and stress-free procedure in having my wisdom tooth extracted. Also, it was convenient being able to complete all the paperwork online.

- Kerri B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Martha W

A very good experience. Easy, short time there and no problems after my extractions. Would definitely return if the need arises.

- Martha W

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Ebony A

Best care I have ever received. I tend to avoid dentist, orthodontist and oral surgeons. Dr. Allen and his staff were excellent. I received a call that same day from staff and Dr. Allen. I highly recommend!!

- Ebony A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Jeff H

Wonderful team of medical professionals. Highly recommend them. My children have had their wisdom teeth removed and the entire process from start to finish was smooth and easy. I love the way they treat their staff and their patients. It is evident both Dr. Allen and Dr. Zwickey love what they do! Kudos to the entire team at West Georgia Oral and Facial Surgery!

- Jeff H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Rick G

This office provides excellent patient care. I highly recommend them for any oral surgery needs!

- Rick G

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Joel P

I would definitely recommend

- Joel P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Jenny R

I was able to easily schedule my daughter's wisdom teeth removal consultation and subsequent surgery. I appreciated being able to complete the paperwork online prior to our first visit. The nurse was super friendly and gave us very thorough information about the procedure before the doctor even came into the room. When he did, he put my daughter (and me) right at ease. The surgery day ran like clockwork and we felt very prepared for what to expect during and afterward. Dr. Allen even came out to speak to me at the car after the procedure (because of COVID we had to wait in the car during my daughter's surgery). The aftercare information was easily understandable and the staff called later that day to check-in and make sure all was well. We will definitely be coming back to West GA for my younger daughter's wisdom teeth in the near future!

- Jenny R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Faith T

I could not be happier with the experience I had. This is how every doctor's office should be ran. The team was extremely friendly and completely on top of everything. Absolutely AMAZING experience!

- Faith T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Lisa A

OMGosh_ I am 47 and had top 2 Wisdom teeth removed . No Issues and had no soreness for real not even in my jaws!!!!!!!

- Lisa A

5 out of 5 stars on