Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars. Most people develop them between the ages of 17 to 25. Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and some have more than others. Additionally, issues may arise if there’s not enough space in the jaw or the teeth do not come in correctly.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
- Consultation: The first step is a consultation. Our dental professionals will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. Based on this information, we will discuss the best course of action.
- Preparation: Before the procedure, you will receive detailed instructions. It’s essential to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth extraction. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home afterward.
- Anesthesia: On the day of your extraction, we will administer anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable. Options include local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level.
- Extraction: The actual extraction procedure usually takes less than an hour. The dentist will carefully remove the wisdom tooth, minimizing discomfort. If the tooth is impacted, it may require additional steps.
- Recovery: After you get wisdom tooth extractions in Marlborough, you will be monitored until you are ready to go home. We will provide post-operative instructions, including care tips to promote healing and reduce discomfort.
Common Issues with Wisdom Teeth
- Impaction: The wisdom teeth do not come out completely from the gum tissues. They usually get wedged behind other teeth and cause acute pain and infection.
- Crowding: The wisdom teeth have no space in the jaw for them to accommodate hence causing erosion for the neighboring teeth, which may lead to misalignment.
- Decay: Wisdom teeth are hard to clean due to their location at the back of your mouth and may pose a risk for cavities or gum disease.
- Infection: The semi-erupted lower wisdom teeth often act as a good medium for bacterial collection, leading to infections.
Extracting wisdom teeth can prevent numerous dental issues. Our dentist in Marlborough recommends doing so in order to alleviate oral pain, prevent future problems, and to improve your overall oral hygiene.
Contact us today to make an appointment with our experienced Oral Surgeon. If you have any questions about insurance or payment options, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist you!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Wisdom teeth that have fully erupted, are properly positioned, and can be cleaned effectively may be kept. Removal is recommended when teeth are impacted (trapped in bone or gum), cause crowding, are difficult to clean, have decay, or are associated with cysts or repeated infections.
Wisdom teeth are typically easiest to remove between ages 17–25, before their roots fully form and the bone is less dense. Earlier removal (when indicated) results in faster healing and fewer complications. However, wisdom teeth can be safely removed at any age.
Dr. Mehta handles a wide range of wisdom tooth extractions, including many impacted cases. Extremely complex surgical cases involving deep bone impaction near the inferior alveolar nerve may be referred to a trusted oral surgeon. He will advise you honestly after reviewing your panoramic X-ray.
Most patients feel well enough to return to desk work in 2–3 days. Swelling peaks around day 3 and resolves within a week. Full bone healing takes 3–6 months, but functional recovery is complete well before that. A soft diet, ice packs, and rest in the first 24–48 hours are key to smooth recovery.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site dislodges before healing is complete, exposing bone and nerves - causing significant pain. Prevention: avoid smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing for 72 hours. Follow Dr. Mehta's post-op instructions carefully to minimize risk.
Flexible Financing & Insurance options
We strive to make dental care affordable and accessible for all our patients. That's why we accept most major insurances, and will work with you to help you understand your plan and maximize your benefits. If you have questions about insurance, or anything at all, give us a call to speak with one of our friendly insurance experts. Don't see your insurance listed? Give us a call on (508) 290-8714, and we'll walk you through all your options!
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Flexible financing & membership plans available
We offer Quality Membership Plans along with flexible financing options through LendingClub, Sunbit, and CareCredit. Quality dental care is an investment in your health and happiness and we believe the cost of treatment should never stand in the way of your ideal smile. That's why we partner with trusted healthcare lenders, allowing you to create personalized payment plans that fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Dr. Aditya Mehta – Compassionate Cosmetic & General Dentist
Dr. Mehta, inspired by a family legacy of 15 doctors, brings a deep-rooted passion for healthcare to his work at Oxford Smiles in Marlborough. With a commitment to excellence, he combines advanced dentistry with a warm, personalized approach to ensure every patient feels valued and cared for.
He specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry. Dr. Mehta focuses on creating natural-looking smiles, offering comfortable, anxiety-free visits, and staying at the forefront of dental innovation through continuous education. Trusted for both his gentle care and expertise, Dr. Mehta helps patients achieve lasting oral health with a strong emphasis on transparency and trust.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only within Marlborough but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only
within Marlborough
but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our
commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
- Marlborough
- Auburn
- Maynard
- Bolton
- Hudson
- Framingham
- Westborough
- Shrewsbury
- Northborough
- Southborough
- Hopkinton
- Ashland