How many wisdom teeth do people have?

Most people have four wisdom teeth, but this is not the case for everyone. Some people have fewer than four, while other people have none at all. This is why it's important to schedule an exam with a dentist or oral surgeon to check the status of your wisdom teeth.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

Recovery time varies, but most people can return to normal activities within three to four days. Full healing of the extraction sites typically takes about one to two weeks. During the first few days, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with ice packs and pain medication. It's important to follow your oral surgeon's aftercare instructions to promote proper healing.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

During the procedure, you'll be under anesthesia, so you won't feel any pain. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort and swelling. This can usually be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain medications or prescription pain relievers if necessary. Most patients find that the pain decreases significantly after the first few days.

Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?

For the first few days after surgery, it's best to stick to soft foods and liquids to avoid irritating the extraction sites. Foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies are good options. As you heal, you can gradually introduce more solid foods. It's important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for at least a week, as well as hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours.

Wisdom Teeth Removal | Seattle, WA, Oral Surgeon

Do You Need Wisdom Teeth Extracted in Seattle?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and emerge in your mouth. While some people may never experience issues with their wisdom teeth, many find that these late-blooming molars can cause a host of oral health problems. At Maring & Johnson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in downtown Seattle, we specialize in wisdom teeth removal to help patients maintain optimal oral health and prevent future complications.

Don’t wait until you experience pain or discomfort. Call our oral surgeon in Seattle at 206-343-7500 to schedule your wisdom teeth evaluation today.

Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to be Removed

Wisdom teeth typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, many people don’t have enough space in their jaws to accommodate these additional molars. This lack of space can lead to various issues:

Impaction: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly, they can become trapped (impacted) within the jaw.
Misalignment: When wisdom teeth grow at an angle, they push against other nearby teeth and cause alignment problems.
Partial eruption: Sometimes, only part of the wisdom tooth breaks through the gum, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Overcrowding: Even if wisdom teeth do emerge fully, they can cause overcrowding, leading to bite problems and the need for orthodontic treatment.

When left untreated, these issues can lead to severe pain, further aesthetic problems, infections, and periodontal disease. Impacted wisdom teeth often need to be removed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. In Seattle, Dr. Thomas Maring and Dr. Robert Johnson are both trained experts in oral surgery, wisdom tooth removal, and anesthesia.

Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

Early assessment of wisdom teeth is key to preventing potential complications. At Maring & Johnson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our oral surgeons recommend that patients in their late teens or early twenties schedule an evaluation to determine if wisdom teeth removal is necessary.

While some people may not experience noticeable symptoms, several signs could indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction:

Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth
Swelling around the jaw
Gum tissue inflammation near the back molars
Difficulty opening your mouth
Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
Headaches or jaw pain

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult with our Seattle oral surgeons. Our team at Maring & Johnson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine the best course of action. Call 206-343-7500 for an appointment.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at our downtown Seattle oral surgery practice. During this visit, our experienced oral surgeons will:

Examine your mouth and jaw
Take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth
Discuss your medical history and any concerns you may have
Explain the procedure and answer your questions
Create a personalized treatment plan

Preparing for the Procedure

Once you’ve decided to proceed with wisdom teeth removal, we’ll provide detailed instructions to help you prepare. This may include:

Guidelines on eating and drinking before the procedure
Information about medications you should or shouldn’t take
Arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery

The Extraction Procedure

On the day of your wisdom teeth removal, our team will take every step to make sure you’re comfortable. Here’s what you can expect:

Administration of anesthesia (local or general, depending on your case)
Careful removal of the wisdom teeth
Cleaning of the extraction sites
Placement of stitches, if necessary
Application of gauze to control bleeding

The procedure typically takes about an hour, though this can vary depending on the number and position of the teeth being removed.

Recovery and Aftercare

After your wisdom teeth removal, we’ll provide comprehensive aftercare instructions. These typically include:

Managing swelling with ice packs
Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
Eating soft foods and staying hydrated
Avoiding strenuous activities for a few days
Proper oral hygiene practices to prevent infection

Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, with complete healing occurring over the next few weeks.

Why Choose Maring & Johnson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Collaborative Approach to Comprehensive Care

At Maring & Johnson Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we offer a truly exceptional approach to oral healthcare. Our practice is one of the few in the Seattle area where an oral surgeon and periodontist work together under one roof. This collaborative model allows us to provide comprehensive care that considers all aspects of your oral health.

Extensive Experience and Specialized Training

Our team brings a wealth of experience to every procedure, such as:

Dr. Thomas Maring has been practicing in downtown Seattle for over 25 years and has consistently been recognized as one of “Seattle’s Top Dentists in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery” by Seattle Met Magazine.
Dr. Robert Johnson is a third-generation dentist and oral surgeon who has trained at over a dozen hospitals and brings a rich family legacy of compassionate oral surgery care in Seattle to our practice.

Both Dr. Thomas Maring and Dr. Robert Johnson have completed extensive training in both dentistry and medicine, giving them a comprehensive understanding of oral and maxillofacial health that few others can match.

I have complete confidence in Dr Maring; he is efficient, thorough in explaining things, & excellent at what he does. I am so thankful for him & his staff! for him & his staff.

— Lucille N.

Everyone in the office was helpful, skillful, and efficient. I was treated with compassion and professionalism. My questions and concerns got immediate responses. I was so impressed! In addition, I experienced minimal pain after my tooth extraction.

— Marianne C.

From the time I first called to make my appointment, walked in the office and met with Dr. Maring, I was treated professionally and respectfully.

— Theresa L.

The treatment has been excellent and Dr Maring is thorough and thoughtful in his approach. I especially like the time he spent educating me on my condition and treatment options. Very kind and responsive office staff.

— Doug B.

I have been a patient of Dr. Susan Maring’s for more than 20 years. I have a rare condition that requires as much as monthly cleanings. She does the work herself, even when insurance doesn’t cover the cost of a periodontist doing the work of a hygienist. When I have needed the help of a dentist, she knew just the right people. She demonstrates tremendous commitment to her patients. I am lucky to have her in my life.

— Susan C.