Wondering whether you need wisdom teeth removal in Spokane Valley? At Spokane Family Smiles, Dr. Scott Shumway and our team help patients understand when removal may be necessary, what the procedure involves, and what to expect during recovery.
We focus on clear answers and personalized recommendations so you can make an informed decision about your care.
When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
Wisdom teeth may need to be removed when they cause pain, infection, crowding, or damage to nearby teeth.
Dr. Scott Shumway will evaluate your mouth and use imaging when needed to check the position of your wisdom teeth and their roots. Digital X-rays and panoramic X-rays can help identify concerns that may not be visible during a standard dental exam.
Common signs that wisdom teeth may need attention include:
- Persistent pain or swelling near the back of the mouth
- Repeated gum infections around a wisdom tooth
- Damage or pressure affecting nearby teeth
- Wisdom teeth that are unable to fully erupt
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that does not have enough room to erupt normally or remains partially or fully trapped beneath the gum or bone. If a wisdom tooth is impacted or creating problems for surrounding teeth or tissues, removal may be recommended.
How Do You Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Preparing ahead of time can help make your appointment and recovery more manageable.
Before your procedure, our team will review your medical history, medications, allergies, and treatment plan. Your specific instructions will depend on the type of anesthesia or sedation being used.
You may be asked to:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation is planned
- Avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before IV sedation, if instructed
- Bring an up-to-date list of medications and allergies
- Follow any additional pre-operative instructions provided by our team
Spokane Family Smiles offers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation options when appropriate. We will explain your options and help you understand what to expect before your procedure.
Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Spokane Valley
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal depends on several factors, including the position of the teeth, whether they are impacted, the number of teeth being removed, the type of sedation used, and your insurance coverage.
Additional costs may also apply for imaging, sedation, or other services related to your treatment.
Our team can review your insurance benefits and provide a personalized estimate based on your recommended care. Because every case is different, an evaluation is the best way to understand your expected cost.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your procedure will be planned based on the position of your wisdom teeth and the complexity of the extraction.
Depending on your needs, treatment may include:
- Local anesthetic or an appropriate sedation option
- Accessing the tooth if it is partially or fully impacted
- Carefully removing the wisdom tooth
- Cleaning the extraction site
- Placing sutures when needed
- Reviewing detailed aftercare instructions
Dr. Scott Shumway and our team will explain your treatment plan before the procedure so you know what to expect.
What Should I Expect During Recovery?
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person. The number of teeth removed, the complexity of the procedure, and your individual healing response can all affect recovery.
Some swelling, tenderness, and discomfort are common after an extraction. Following your post-operative instructions can help support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Your aftercare instructions may include:
- Resting and limiting strenuous activity after treatment
- Using cold packs as directed to help manage swelling
- Choosing soft foods while the extraction sites heal
- Avoiding straws and other actions that could disturb the healing sites
- Keeping the area clean according to your dentist’s instructions
Contact Spokane Family Smiles if you experience worsening pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or other concerns during recovery.
Common Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Will sedation make me sleep through the procedure?
That depends on the type of sedation used. Nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation produce different levels of relaxation and awareness. Our team will explain the recommended option and what you can expect before treatment.
How long does wisdom teeth removal take?
Appointment length depends on how many teeth are being removed, whether they are impacted, and the complexity of the procedure. Your treatment plan will give you a better idea of what to expect.
Can teens have wisdom teeth removed at Spokane Family Smiles?
Yes. Spokane Family Smiles provides wisdom teeth evaluations and treatment for both teens and adults. Recommendations are based on each patient’s individual needs.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Digital and panoramic X-rays are used to gather important information about the position of wisdom teeth and surrounding structures while keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable.
When can I return to school or work?
Recovery time varies. Some patients feel ready to return to normal activities within a few days, while others may need additional time after a more involved extraction. Follow the recovery instructions provided by your dental team.
Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation in Spokane Valley
If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, swelling, or other concerns, Spokane Family Smiles can help you understand your options.
Dr. Scott Shumway and our team can evaluate your wisdom teeth, review any necessary X-rays, discuss whether removal is appropriate, and provide an individualized estimate based on your treatment needs and insurance coverage.
If you’re looking for wisdom teeth removal in Spokane Valley, call Spokane Family Smiles to schedule your visit.