Our Services
Wisdom teeth
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. But when they cause problems — pain, infection, crowding, or damage to the teeth beside them — extraction by an experienced oral surgeon is the solution.
Why they cause trouble
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to erupt, usually in the late teens or early twenties, and for many people there is simply not enough room in the jaw for them.
The result is impaction — a tooth stuck against the one in front, or angled sideways, or only partly erupted through the gum. Partial eruption is the worst of both worlds: a flap of gum over the tooth that traps bacteria and cannot be cleaned.
When to have them assessed
Impaction
The tooth cannot erupt fully and presses against the molar in front, which can cause decay and resorption in an otherwise healthy tooth.
Partial Eruption
A tooth partly through the gum creates a pocket that cannot be cleaned, leading to recurrent infection and swelling.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Pressure from an angled wisdom tooth damages the root or crown of the second molar, sometimes irreparably.
Pain, Infection, or Crowding
Any of these warrant assessment rather than waiting to see whether the episode settles.
X-rays matter here more than symptoms
Many wisdom tooth problems develop silently. Decay on the back surface of a second molar, caused by an impacted wisdom tooth pressing against it, is invisible clinically and often painless until the damage is extensive.
This is why routine radiographic screening through the late teens and twenties is worthwhile even when nothing hurts.
The procedure and recovery
Extractions are performed by Dr. Claudio Tocchio, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, with sedation options available through Dr. Stephen Ing — from nitrous oxide to full IV sedation.
Swelling peaks at two to three days and then resolves gradually. Most patients return to light activity within a week. We will give you specific aftercare instructions, and following them closely is the main protection against dry socket.
Ready to get started?
Book an assessment rather than enduring wisdom tooth pain. Call (905) 479-7777.