A panoramic X-ray shows exactly how your third molars are positioned before we recommend anything. Smile Center Dentistry assesses impaction type before recommending removal.
Impaction type changes both the procedure and the recovery, so we explain which applies to you. We'd rather assess honestly than recommend a standard four-tooth removal regardless of your actual case.
We don't rely on a single small X-ray for a decision this significant. This single image gives us a complete picture of all four wisdom teeth at once.
From local anesthesia to oral or IV sedation, we discuss what fits your anxiety level and case complexity. Simple soft-tissue cases often don't need more than local anesthesia.
A soft-tissue impaction is a very different procedure than a full bony impaction, and we explain the difference. Classification happens per tooth, since it's common for one side to differ from the other.
You'll know realistic swelling and downtime expectations before surgery day, not discover them afterward. We'd rather set an accurate expectation than have you surprised by how you feel on day two.
We explain your specific case classification before recommending a removal plan.
This imaging alone often answers whether removal is even necessary right now. We review the image with you directly, pointing out what we're seeing.
When a tooth has erupted but gum tissue partially covers it, removal is usually more straightforward. We explain why your case falls into this category if it does.
When a tooth is angled or fully encased in bone, removal requires a more involved surgical approach. Recovery expectations are set honestly for these more involved cases.
We don't default to the most expensive option — we recommend what actually fits your situation. Pre-procedure instructions for sedation are given clearly in advance.
A follow-up check confirms healing is on track, especially for more complex bony impaction cases. We're reachable directly if recovery doesn't feel right.
We check monitored teeth at your regular recall visits rather than leaving them untracked. If circumstances change, we revisit the removal conversation honestly.
We ask about symptoms — pain, swelling, crowding — to prioritize scheduling appropriately.
You'll see your own X-ray and understand exactly what we're recommending and why.
Based on impaction complexity and your comfort preference, we proceed with the appropriate sedation level.
Written aftercare and a follow-up check ensure healing stays on track.
"Panoramic X-ray showed exactly why one tooth was impacted. Made the decision to remove it an easy one."
"Full bony impaction on one side, and they were upfront it would take longer than the others. Recovery matched what they told me."
"Swelling peaked around day two exactly like they said it would. No surprises during recovery."
"Soft-tissue impaction turned out to be a quicker procedure than I braced myself for."
"Told me one of my wisdom teeth was fine to keep and monitor instead of removing all four automatically. Saved me an unnecessary procedure."
Some patients keep one or two wisdom teeth that are fully erupted and functional with no issues. Monitored teeth are checked at future visits rather than being ignored entirely.
Local anesthesia, oral sedation, and IV sedation are all options, chosen based on impaction complexity and your comfort level. We'll recommend a specific option based on your case, not upsell the most expensive one.
Soft-tissue impactions typically recover within a few days; full bony impactions can take a week or more. Swelling typically peaks around day two regardless of impaction type.
Some patients need evaluation later if problems develop, regardless of age. We'll tell you honestly if waiting is reasonable for your specific case.
Pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or crowding of nearby teeth are all signs worth getting imaged soon. Don't wait for severe pain — earlier evaluation usually means easier treatment.
We break down cost per tooth so you understand what's driving the total. We verify insurance benefits before treatment so you know your out-of-pocket cost.
Our team serves Moss Beach and the surrounding zip codes with the same impaction-specific assessment at every visit. Whether it's one tooth or all four, our Moss Beach team handles assessment and most procedures in-house.
Licensed, imaging-equipped, and local to Moss Beach — call and get a real assessment.
Call +1-866-227-2801