Surgical Removal of Wisdom Teeth: What You Need to Know
Originally published September 2023. Updated October 2025 with new insights about sedation and coronectomy options.
Surgical Removal of Wisdom Teeth and Coronectomy in North York and Toronto
Surgical removal of wisdom teeth remains one of the most common oral surgery procedures — and one of the safest when performed with modern techniques and sedation.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often cause problems as they emerge in the late teens or early twenties. When these teeth become impacted or lead to other dental issues, surgical removal is often the best solution. At Implant Dentistry Toronto, we specialize in safe and effective wisdom teeth extraction.
A patient with previously straightened teeth has four impacted wisdom teeth, or third molars.
Why Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth can cause various oral health issues, including:
Impaction: Wisdom teeth often lack the space they need to fully emerge, becoming stuck in the jawbone or gums.
Infection and Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are prone to bacterial infections and tooth decay, leading to pain and swelling.
Damage to Nearby Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth
Damage to Nearby Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can press against neighboring teeth, causing alignment issues or even damaging adjacent teeth.
Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth, posing a risk to your jawbone and oral health.
The presence of four impacted wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, is leading to significant dental complications, including the development of cavities and root resorption in adjacent teeth.
What to Expect During Surgical Removal
The surgical removal of wisdom teeth is a common procedure, designed to protect your oral health. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Consultation: We’ll begin with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and plan the best approach for removal.
2. Anesthesia Options: To ensure your comfort, we offer local anesthesia to numb the area. For more complex cases or if you’re feeling anxious, sedation options are available to help you relax during the procedure.
3. Surgical Extraction: During the procedure, a small incision is made in the gum to access the tooth. If necessary, the tooth may be divided into smaller sections for easier removal. The entire process is performed with precision to minimize discomfort and recovery time.
4. Stitches and Healing: After the tooth is removed, the incision is usually closed with dissolvable stitches. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Advanced Techniques for Wisdom Tooth Surgery
At Implant Dentistry Toronto, Dr. Onur Cavus, BDS, PhD, incorporates advanced microsurgical and sedation techniques to ensure precision and patient comfort. For cases where the wisdom tooth roots lie close to the nerve, a coronectomy — partial tooth removal that preserves the nerve — may be recommended to minimize risk.
Learn more about Coronectomy in Wisdom Teeth Surgery →.
Recovery and Aftercare Tips
Proper aftercare is key to a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal. Here are some essential tips:
• Rest: Take it easy for the first few days to allow your body to heal.
• Ice Packs: Apply ice to reduce swelling and manage pain.
• Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies to avoid irritating the extraction site.
• Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with salt water, but avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for a few days.
To make your recovery smooth and comfortable, don’t forget to read our Wisdom Teeth Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions (PDF) before your appointment.
When to Reach Out
While complications are rare, it’s important to contact us if you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection such as fever or pus. Our team at Implant Dentistry Toronto is here to support you throughout your recovery.
If you’re experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth or have been advised to consider removal, don’t wait!
Thinking about wisdom teeth removal? Dr. Onur Cavus explains what to expect before, during, and after surgery — ensuring comfort and safety every step of the way.
