Surgical · Since 1987
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Wilmington, NC
Wisdom teeth cause trouble when there is no room for them. Removing them in the late teens or early twenties is easier than removing them at forty.
About wisdom teeth
Roots are shorter and bone is less dense in younger patients, which makes the procedure quicker and the recovery shorter. That is the reason for the usual timing rather than any rule about age.
Not every wisdom tooth has to come out. If yours are fully erupted, in a normal position and cleanable, we will leave them alone and watch them.
How it works
- Panoramic or 3D imagingWe look at root shape and how close the roots sit to the nerve.
- Anesthesia planMost patients choose sedation for this one.
- RemovalAll four in a single appointment is standard.
- Recovery checkWe follow up in the first week.
Recovery and aftercare
Plan on three days of taking it easy. Ice for the first 24 hours, soft food, and no straws or smoking for at least three days. Swelling peaks around day two and then improves, which surprises people who expect day one to be the worst.
Cost and coverage
Cost depends on how many teeth, whether they are impacted, and the sedation used. Dental plans commonly cover a share of surgical extraction. We give you the estimate before the date is booked, and if your college-age child is on your plan we will confirm the coverage first.
You may be a candidate if
- Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw
- Repeated infection or swelling of the gum flap over a partly erupted tooth
- Teeth impacted against the molar in front of them
- Crowding pressure after orthodontic treatment
- A cyst or decay visible on an x-ray
Wisdom Teeth Removal by town
We see patients from across New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
In their own words
Hear from Dr. Josh Winneberger
Dr. Winneberger on getting you numb without you noticing, and helping nervous patients get comfortable in the chair.
Questions we get asked
Do all four have to come out at once?
No, though most people prefer one recovery to four. If only one is causing trouble we can take that one.
What age is best?
Late teens to early twenties, when roots are not fully formed. Removal is straightforward well beyond that, and it is simply a longer recovery.
Will I be swollen for my wedding, graduation, or vacation?
Give yourself a week of clearance. Swelling peaks at 48 hours and looks noticeably better by day four.
Does it affect my other teeth?
Removing impacted wisdom teeth relieves pressure on the second molars. It does not shift the rest of your bite.
Can I go back to work the next day?
Some people do. Most take two or three days, especially with a physical job.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
One trip. Everybody seen.
We block consecutive appointments so a family visit is one morning rather than three separate afternoons.
- General, cosmetic, orthodontic and surgical care under one roof
- Consecutive family scheduling on request
- Sealants and preventive care for children
- Most major dental plans accepted
Nervous child? Tell us before the appointment and we will slow the whole thing down.
Request an appointment
We reply the next business day.
Please do not include Protected Health Information. For anything urgent, call (910) 762-0958.
