How do you know if you need wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth can be a pain, literally. Whether they’re just starting to come in or already causing discomfort, our team at Moore, Pascarella & Heinzen provides safe, comfortable wisdom teeth removal in Redding and Red Bluff.
While wisdom teeth extractions are very common they’re not necessary for everyone. On the other hand, many people need to get their wisdom teeth removed even though they don’t seem to be causing problems yet. The best way to know for sure if you need an extraction is a consultation with our team.
When to get wisdom teeth removed
Wisdom teeth usually come in between the late teens and early twenties, but not everyone has room for them. If they grow in crooked, only partially erupt, or stay stuck under the gums (known as impacted wisdom teeth), they can lead to:
- Pain or swelling in the back of the mouth
- Crowding or shifting of other teeth
- Pressure on the roots and nerves of neighboring teeth
- Infection, cysts, or damage to nearby roots
- Trouble cleaning, leading to cavities and gum disease
Wisdom teeth extractions can help to prevent these problems and protect your comfort and overall oral health. If you’re asking “when should I get my wisdom teeth removed,” the best time is usually before they start causing problems. Early removal can help avoid future pain and protect your long-term oral health, not to mention making the surgery easier.
In many cases, summer vacation before starting college is an ideal time to schedule wisdom teeth extractions. That way, the surgery won’t interfere with school but you won’t have to worry about coming back home to get it done once you’ve left for college. However, many people in later adulthood can still benefit from getting their wisdom teeth removed.
We understand that surgery can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We’ll walk you through every step, keep you comfortable with sedation options, and help you recover smoothly with personalized aftercare.
What to expect during your wisdom teeth extraction in Redding or Red Bluff
Depending on how your wisdom teeth are growing, your extraction may be simple or surgical:
- Erupted wisdom teeth can often be removed like any other tooth
- Impacted wisdom teeth may require a small incision in the gum, or we may need to remove a tiny amount of bone tissue covering a stuck tooth
Either way, you’ll be in good hands. We offer wisdom tooth extractions in both Redding and Red Bluff and use advanced technology and gentle techniques to make your visit as smooth as possible.
How painful is wisdom teeth extraction?
We get this question a lot and the truth is, it doesn’t have to hurt. With local anesthesia and sedation options available, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure, but we’ll make sure you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout.
For very complex cases, we can connect you with an oral surgeon near you who specializes in wisdom teeth extractions.
Afterward, it’s normal to have some soreness or swelling, but most people find it very manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Our team will check in with you and provide clear instructions so you know what to expect every step of the way. Following our wisdom teeth recovery instructions will ensure that your healing process goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible.
Wisdom teeth removal recovery tips
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal? Most people feel better within a few days, but full healing may take a couple of weeks. Here’s how to recover faster and avoid complications:
✅ Do:
- Rest and take it easy the first few days
- Use an ice pack to reduce swelling
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies
- Keep the area clean with gentle rinses after the first 24 hours
- Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain meds as directed
❌ Don’t:
- Use straws, smoke, or spit forcefully (this can cause dry socket)
- Eat crunchy, hard, or spicy foods until fully healed
- Skip your follow-up or ignore signs of infection
Dry socket is the most common complication, and it happens when the blood clot at the site gets dislodged. It can be painful, but it’s preventable if you follow your aftercare instructions closely. If you still have pain after the first four or five days, give us a call about dry socket treatments so we can help you feel comfortable and heal properly.
Why choose Moore, Pascarella & Heinzen for wisdom teeth extractions?
When choosing a dentist for wisdom teeth extraction, you not only want someone who is experienced in dental care but who also will provide you with the best patient experience. At Moore, Pascarella & Heinzen, we’re proud to provide affordable wisdom teeth extractions in Redding and Red Bluff to protect your comfort and oral health.
Don’t wait until the pain gets worse. If you’re wondering if you need an extraction, need help with impacted wisdom teeth, or have questions about the dos and don’ts after wisdom teeth removal, we’re happy to help. Call today to schedule a consultation and get expert guidance on wisdom tooth extractions in a stress-free, supportive environment.
