Expert Insights from Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery (AOFS)
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries performed at Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery (AOFS). With over four decades of specialized experience, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons have safely performed thousands of extractions across metro Atlanta. This comprehensive guide will walk you through when removal is necessary, what to expect before and after surgery, and how to ensure a smooth recovery — all with local insights, transparent cost ranges, and professional care details.
Introduction
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between ages 17 and 25. While some patients experience no issues, many encounter impaction, crowding, or infection that require removal. At AOFS, we specialize in comfortable, precise extractions using advanced imaging, anesthesia, and surgical techniques — ensuring a safe experience and faster recovery for patients throughout Atlanta.
Our practice offers 16 convenient locations across the metro area, including Buckhead, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Sandy Springs. Whether you’re a teen preparing for removal or an adult managing late complications, our team provides individualized treatment plans and sedation options tailored to your needs.
Contact us to schedule your consultation: www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com
When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
1. Impaction
When wisdom teeth lack room to erupt fully, they may become impacted—trapped beneath the gum or jawbone. Impacted teeth can cause:
- Pain, swelling, or stiffness near the jaw
- Gum infection (pericoronitis)
- Cysts or damage to adjacent teeth
2. Infection and Inflammation
Partially erupted wisdom teeth often create flaps of gum tissue that trap bacteria, leading to recurrent infection, bad breath, or jaw discomfort.
3. Tooth Crowding or Shifting
In some cases, emerging wisdom teeth exert pressure that shifts nearby teeth, potentially undoing orthodontic work.
4. Tooth Decay and Bone Loss
Because they’re difficult to clean, wisdom teeth are prone to decay and can cause bone loss around neighboring molars.
5. Preventive Removal
Even symptom-free wisdom teeth may warrant early removal to avoid future complications. Early intervention—typically between ages 16–20—is ideal, when roots are smaller and recovery is quicker.
The Consultation Process
During your initial AOFS consultation, your surgeon will:
- Review your medical and dental history to assess anesthesia and surgical needs.
- Perform a clinical examination of the mouth and jaw.
- Take diagnostic imaging (Panoramic X-ray or 3D CBCT scan) to evaluate tooth position and nerve proximity.
- Discuss anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia.
- Provide a personalized treatment plan, estimated recovery time, and cost breakdown.
Schedule your consultation here: Contact AOFS https://www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com/contact/
Procedure Details
Wisdom teeth removal at AOFS is typically an outpatient procedure, lasting 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity.
Anesthesia Options
- Local anesthesia: Numbs the surgical area; patient remains awake.
- IV sedation: Patient remains relaxed and semi-conscious; commonly used for comfort.
- General anesthesia: Patient is fully asleep for complex or multiple extractions.
Surgical Steps
- The area is numbed or sedated for comfort.
- The surgeon creates a small incision to access the tooth.
- Bone covering the tooth may be gently removed.
- The tooth is extracted in one piece or divided into sections for minimal trauma.
- The surgical site is cleaned, and dissolvable sutures are placed.
Following the procedure, patients rest in recovery for monitoring before being released with detailed postoperative instructions.
Recovery Timeline: Day-by-Day
Recovery varies by patient, but most AOFS patients resume normal activity within a week.
Day 1: Surgery Day
- Bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Use ice packs in 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
- Stick to liquids and soft foods (smoothies, yogurt, applesauce).
- Take prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter ibuprofen as directed.
Day 2–3: Swelling and Discomfort Peak
- Swelling may peak around 48 hours post-op, then gradually subside.
- Continue cold compresses and prescribed rinses.
- Avoid smoking, straws, or vigorous rinsing.
Day 4–5: Improvement Phase
- Transition to warmer salt-water rinses to promote healing.
- Swelling and stiffness decrease noticeably.
- Resume soft solid foods like mashed potatoes, pasta, and scrambled eggs.
Day 6–7: Normalization
- Mild soreness may persist but major swelling and bruising should fade.
- You can return to normal diet and light exercise unless advised otherwise.
Full Healing
- Soft tissue healing: ~2–3 weeks
- Bone remodeling: ~3–6 months
AOFS provides customized recovery instructions and 24/7 access to postoperative care for emergencies.
Pain Management
Our surgeons use a multimodal approach to control discomfort and minimize opioid use.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen): Reduce pain and inflammation.
- Acetaminophen: Can be used with NSAIDs for added relief.
- Prescription pain medication: Provided for severe discomfort.
- Cold therapy: Reduces swelling and numbs soreness.
- Sedation recovery protocols: AOFS ensures patients receive safe medication instructions post-sedation.
Cost & Insurance in Atlanta
Wisdom teeth removal costs vary based on tooth position, anesthesia type, and case complexity.
Estimated Cost Ranges
| Service | Average Atlanta Cost (per tooth) |
| Simple Extraction | $150 – $350 |
| Surgical Extraction (Impacted) | $300 – $1,200 |
| IV Sedation | $400 – $1,500 |
| 3D CBCT Scan | $150 – $400 |
| Consultation & Exam | $0 – $150 (often applied to surgery) |
Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of wisdom teeth removal when deemed medically necessary. AOFS accepts most major insurances and offers financing options through CareCredit and in-house payment plans.
To receive a personalized cost estimate, contact AOFS today: https://www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com/contact/
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does wisdom teeth surgery take?
Most procedures take under one hour. Recovery time before going home is usually 30–45 minutes.
Will I be awake during surgery?
You can choose between local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia — your surgeon will recommend what’s safest and most comfortable.
When can I return to work or school?
Most patients return to normal activities within 3–5 days, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Can wisdom teeth grow back?
No — once removed completely, they will not regrow.
When should I call my surgeon?
Contact AOFS immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, fever, or swelling that worsens after day three.
Why Choose Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery?
Trusted Expertise
AOFS has served Atlanta for over 40 years, with board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons specializing in wisdom teeth, implants, and reconstructive procedures.
Advanced Technology
We use digital 3D imaging (CBCT), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and advanced anesthesia monitoring systems for optimal safety.
Comfort-Focused Care
Our clinics prioritize patient comfort with sedation options and compassionate staff trained to manage anxiety and pain.
Comprehensive Postoperative Support
AOFS provides personalized follow-ups, 24-hour emergency care, and detailed recovery guidance to ensure complete healing.
Ready to Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation?
Early evaluation leads to faster recovery, fewer complications, and lower costs. If you or your teen are experiencing jaw pain, swelling, or crowding, schedule your consultation with Atlanta Oral & Facial Surgery today.
Book your visit now: Contact AOFS: https://www.atlantaoralandfacialsurgery.com/contact/
