Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth removal
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth, and they are removed when they are impacted, crowded, infected or in the way of your dentist's plan.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. Dr. Elgendy reads your scan, explains what she sees and tells you whether she would take the teeth out now, watch them or leave them. Teens usually come at the age their dentist suggests, with a parent or guardian.
Teens and adults
A parent or guardian comes with a teen
One surgeon from consult to follow-up
What happens, and how many visits
Usually two visits: a consult with a scan, then procedure day. A short follow-up happens when Dr. Elgendy wants to see the area.
- Visit one
Step 1: Consult and scan
You talk, she examines you and a scan shows where the teeth and nerves sit. You leave with an estimate.
- Before the day
Step 2: Choosing your comfort
You decide between numbing alone, nitrous oxide or IV sedation, and you get fasting and ride-home rules in writing.
- Visit two
Step 3: Procedure day
The teeth are removed, often all four in one visit. Gauze, ice and instructions go home with you and your adult driver.
- A few days
Step 4: Recovery
Soft food, rest and an ice pack for the swelling. Call us if the instructions say to.
Comfort, risks and cost
Comfort
The area is numbed first, and most people feel pressure, not pain. You can ask for a break at any time. Nitrous oxide and IV sedation are options, each with its own rules.
SedationIf you wait
Teeth that are impacted but not causing trouble are sometimes watched. Teeth that are infected or pressing on others tend to get worse, and surgery can get harder as the roots grow.
Risks and after-care
Bleeding, infection, dry socket and, rarely, numbness in the lip, chin or tongue. Dr. Elgendy goes over them and your after-care at the consult. Soft food, rest and no straws for a few days.
Other options
Watching the teeth with regular scans, or having them removed in stages. Your dentist may have a view; we work with it.
Who does what
Dr. Elgendy does the surgery. Your dentist keeps your cleanings and checkups.
How it is billed
We bill your dental plan, your medical plan or you, whichever applies, and give a written estimate first. We never list a price on this site; the estimate is yours to keep.
How fees work
Questions about wisdom teeth
Do all wisdom teeth have to come out?
No. Dr. Elgendy tells you after the scan whether she would remove them, watch them or leave them.
How long is the recovery?
Most people rest at home for a few days and eat soft food. How you feel depends on the teeth, your age and your health, and she tells you what to expect.
Can my teenager have this done?
Yes, with a parent or guardian at the consult and on the day. We explain the choices to both of you.
What if I get a fever or heavy bleeding afterward?
Call us the same day. The urgent visits page lists what needs 911 or an emergency room.
Provided by Dr. Maha Elgendy, DDS
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: hospital residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery, certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. The owner confirms each credential.