Wisdom Teeth Removal in Apopka, FL

Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, usually in the late teens or early twenties. For many people, there simply isn't enough room in the mouth for them. When wisdom teeth come in crooked, only partly break through the gums, or stay trapped beneath the gum line, they can cause pain, infection and crowding. At Apopka Smiles, our dentist evaluates your wisdom teeth and, when removal is the right choice, extract them in our Apopka office.

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed

Most dentists would rather repair a tooth than extract it. Wisdom teeth are often the exception because of where and how they grow. Common reasons for removal include:

  • Impaction. When there's not enough room in the dental arch for a tooth to grow, it can become impacted, stuck partly or fully below the gums or bone.
  • Crowding. Adolescents and teens sometimes have wisdom teeth removed so braces can be used to straighten and move their teeth.
  • Pain and infection. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to swelling, gum infection and decay.
  • Damage to neighboring teeth. A wisdom tooth pushing against the molar in front of it can damage that tooth.

How We Evaluate Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are hidden at the back of the jaw, so our dentist needs a clear view of their position. Apopka Smiles uses Panorex imaging, which captures complete views of the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular joints and sinuses. Along with digital X-rays, this helps our dentist see the angle of each wisdom tooth, its roots and its relationship to nearby nerves and teeth so we can plan the safest approach.

What to Expect During Removal

Your dentist will explain the plan for your procedure, including the type of anesthesia. If you will receive anesthesia, please review our Before Anesthesia instructions. They include not eating or drinking for at least 8 hours beforehand and arranging for someone to drive you home.

When several teeth are removed at once, the jaw needs time to heal. Our Multiple Tooth Extractions page explains common effects such as swelling, a sore throat and dry corners of the mouth. A follow-up appointment is usually needed within 48 hours.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients experience some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days. To help your mouth heal:

  • Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling
  • Take any prescribed pain medication as directed
  • Avoid chewing on the side of the extraction for 2 to 3 days
  • Follow all of the steps on our Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare page and our Surgical Instructions

Our team cares about how you feel after surgery. As one patient shared in a Google review: "I also highly appreciated the Dentist taking time to contact me after my extractions to assure all went well post surgery. I had minimal to no pain on the direct extraction site after having my wisdom teeth pulled."

Insurance and Payment

Apopka Smiles is in-network with most insurance PPO providers and accepts all major credit cards and CareCredit. Our team will submit claims on your behalf and can arrange payment plans if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

No. Some wisdom teeth come in properly and cause no problems. Our dentist will evaluate yours with an exam and imaging and recommend removal only when it's needed.

At what age should wisdom teeth be checked?

Wisdom teeth usually come in during the late teens or early twenties. Having them evaluated as they develop lets our dentist spot impaction or crowding early.

How long is recovery after wisdom teeth removal?

Swelling is common for the first couple of days. Most patients feel better within several days, though healing time varies. Follow our aftercare instructions and call us with any concerns.

Can I drive myself home?

If you receive anesthesia, no. You must be accompanied by an adult who will drive you home, and you should not drive for at least 24 hours.

What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction sites for 2 to 3 days. Our aftercare page has more detailed guidance.

Wisdom teeth bothering you? Call Apopka Smiles at 407-788-6888 to schedule an evaluation.