Wisdom Teeth Removal in Langley

Early Treatment to Protect Your Oral Health


Understanding Wisdom Teeth


Between ages 16 to 21, the average adult will have 32 teeth, with 16 on the top and 16 on the bottom. However, our mouths are generally designed to comfortably hold only 28 teeth. The teeth at the front of the mouth are used for biting and tearing food, while the molars at the back help grind food before swallowing.


After the molars come the wisdom teeth, and for most patients, they provide little benefit while creating potential oral health concerns. Many people simply do not have enough room for these teeth to erupt properly without disturbing surrounding teeth. Patients experiencing wisdom teeth crowding teeth or discomfort may benefit from an early dental evaluation.

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed


Before wisdom teeth develop into more serious concerns, we often recommend removing them as a preventive measure. Wisdom teeth removal in Langley is commonly performed under sedation so patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Many patients choose wisdom teeth removal with sedation to help reduce anxiety and improve their overall experience. For patients who decide not to remove their wisdom teeth, several complications may occur. Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, only partially erupt, or remain trapped beneath the gums and jawbone. These conditions can become painful as the teeth continue trying to erupt.


When wisdom teeth are partially erupted, the opening around the tooth allows bacteria to collect and may eventually lead to infection. A partially erupted wisdom tooth can cause swelling, stiffness, discomfort, and illness if left untreated. Pressure from erupting wisdom teeth may also shift surrounding teeth and affect natural or orthodontic alignment. The most serious complications occur when cysts or tumours develop around impacted wisdom teeth. Early removal is often recommended to reduce the risk of wisdom teeth complications and concerns involving impacted wisdom teeth and cysts.

Wisdom Teeth Treatment Options


Between the ages of 14 and 16, most patients begin discussing their wisdom teeth with their dentist, orthodontist, or oral and maxillofacial surgeon. During an oral exam for wisdom teeth and wisdom teeth X-rays, we evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether problems are present now or may develop in the future.


In most cases, wisdom teeth are removed using local anesthesia, laughing gas, or general anesthesia. Options such as wisdom teeth removal with laughing gas and wisdom teeth removal under anesthesia are discussed before treatment, along with any potential risks. Before removing a tooth, we carefully evaluate your oral health to ensure treatment is appropriate and beneficial for your long-term smile.