Expert Wisdom Teeth Removal in Burlington
At Dentistry at LaSalle, we provide safe and comfortable wisdom teeth removal for patients throughout Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and the Halton Region. Whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, partially erupted, or causing crowding, our experienced dental team will guide you through every step of the extraction process.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but extraction is recommended when they cause:
- Pain or tenderness in the back of the jaw
- Impaction — the tooth is trapped beneath the gum or bone
- Crowding of adjacent teeth, undoing previous orthodontic work
- Recurring infection of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth (pericoronitis)
- Cyst or tumour formation around the impacted tooth
- Decay in a wisdom tooth that is difficult to clean properly
We recommend that patients in their late teens have a panoramic X-ray to evaluate the position of their wisdom teeth before symptoms develop. Early assessment often means a simpler procedure and faster recovery.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your comfort is our priority. Wisdom tooth extractions at Dentistry at LaSalle are performed with local anaesthesia, and sedation options are available for anxious patients or complex cases.
The procedure typically involves:
- Assessment and imaging: Digital X-rays to map the exact position of the tooth and nearby nerves.
- Anaesthesia: Local freezing to numb the area completely. Sedation dentistry is available if needed.
- Extraction: The tooth is carefully loosened and removed. For impacted teeth, a small incision in the gum tissue may be required.
- Closure: Dissolvable stitches are placed if necessary, and gauze is applied to manage bleeding.
Most simple extractions take 20 to 30 minutes. Surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth may take slightly longer.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most patients recover within 3 to 7 days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available by phone if you have any concerns during your recovery. General guidelines include:
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 24 to 48 hours
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt, soup, and smoothies for the first few days
- Avoid using straws, smoking, or spitting forcefully — this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket
- Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Burlington
The cost of wisdom teeth removal depends on the complexity of the extraction. Simple extractions of fully erupted teeth cost less than surgical removal of impacted teeth. We provide a detailed cost estimate before any procedure and work with most major dental insurance plans to maximize your coverage.
We also offer flexible payment options so that cost is never a barrier to necessary dental care.
Why Choose Dentistry at LaSalle?
- Modern technology: Advanced dental equipment including laser dentistry and guided biofilm therapy
- Comprehensive care: From family dentistry to complex restorative procedures under one roof
- Wheelchair accessible: Our dedicated wheelchair dental suite ensures access for all patients
- Convenient Burlington location: Easy access for patients across the Halton Region
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Signs include jaw pain, swollen gums behind your back molars, difficulty opening your mouth, and recurring infections. However, many impacted wisdom teeth cause no symptoms at all, which is why we recommend imaging as part of your regular dental check-up.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure itself is not painful — the area is fully frozen with local anaesthesia. Some patients choose sedation for additional comfort. After the procedure, mild to moderate discomfort is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Yes. In most cases, removing all four wisdom teeth in a single appointment is recommended. This means one recovery period instead of multiple procedures.
What is dry socket and how do I prevent it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone. Avoid smoking, using straws, and vigorous rinsing for at least 72 hours after surgery to reduce this risk.
How long do I need to take off work or school?
Most patients take 2 to 3 days off. Swelling and discomfort typically peak on days 2 and 3 and then improve steadily.
Book Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation
If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain or want to have your wisdom teeth evaluated, contact Dentistry at LaSalle in Burlington today. Call us or request an appointment online.