When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?

Most experts recommend extraction between ages 17–25—when the roots aren’t fully formed, the procedure is less complex, and recovery is quicker. At Elevated Oral Surgery in San Diego, we use panoramic imaging to assess development and guide timing. Book a consultation to see if now is the right time for you.

What does impacted wisdom teeth mean, and why does it matter?

Impacted means wisdom teeth are stuck under gum or bone due to crowding or angle, which can lead to pain, infection, cysts, or damage to adjacent teeth. At Elevated Oral Surgery, we evaluate impaction via X-rays to recommend removal when needed. Book a consultation to determine if your wisdom teeth should come out.

Do I need anesthesia or sedation for wisdom teeth removal?

Yes—at our practice, you’ll be comfortable. We offer local anesthesia, IV sedation, oral sedation, or general anesthesia depending on your case and preference. We’ll review your medical history, comfort goals, and procedure complexity during consultation. Schedule yours today.

What does recovery look like, and how long does it take?

Most patients experience swelling and mild discomfort that peaks around 48 hours, with full return to normal in 3–7 days and complete healing in up to two weeks. We provide detailed after-care including pain management, diet guidance, and follow-up. Book a consultation to discuss your recovery plan.

What is a dry socket, and how can I avoid it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges too early, exposing bone and nerves—resulting in sharp pain several days post-op. To avoid it, don’t use straws, smoke, spit forcefully, or rinse vigorously in the first week. At Elevated Oral Surgery, we teach you precautions and monitor your healing closely. Book a consultation to learn more.

What can I eat and drink after surgery?

Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm foods for the first few days—like applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, scrambled eggs. Avoid crunchy, spicy, hot, or dairy-heavy foods and don’t use straws. You can start hydrating with water (no straw) within hours post-op. We’ll give you a personalized post-op meal plan. Book a consultation to get yours.

How should I care for the extraction sites and manage swelling?

Immediately after surgery, bite on gauze to control bleeding. Use ice packs for 24–48 hours to reduce swelling, sleep propped up, and begin salt-water rinses gently after 24 hours. Brush other teeth carefully but avoid disturbing the sockets. At Elevated Oral Surgery, we’ll walk you through each step for a smooth recovery. Schedule a consultation to review post-op care.

What complications can occur, and how common are they?

Complications are rare but may include dry socket, infection, temporary numbness (nerve irritation), bleeding, or swelling. Risk of nerve injury—especially to the inferior alveolar nerve—is very low but assessed via imaging pre-operatively. We carefully plan each case to minimize risk and will discuss your individual risk profile during consultation. Book an evaluation with our experienced oral surgeons.

Will insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?

In many cases yes—especially for impacted teeth or when there are symptoms. Coverage varies based on your plan and procedure complexity. Our team works with San Diego County dental and medical insurers and provides transparent cost estimates before treatment. Schedule a consultation to get your estimate and insurance guidance.

Will my teeth shift if wisdom teeth are removed?

Unlikely. Removing wisdom teeth tends to relieve pressure, not cause shifting. Most people retain normal alignment post-removal. If orthodontic concerns exist, we coordinate with your orthodontist. Want to chat about alignment and extraction together? Book a consultation.

Your Guide to TMJ Treatment in San Diego

Understanding TMJ Disorders and Pain

Chronic jaw pain, popping sounds, and facial tension are often the primary signs of a Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder. If you are seeking effective tmj treatment san diego, it is essential to work with a specialist who understands the complex relationship between your jaw joint, muscles, and teeth. At Elevated Oral Surgery, we provide personalized care plans designed to alleviate pain and restore full function to your jaw, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort.

Non-Surgical Relief with Botox for TMJ San Diego

For many patients, the most effective relief comes from a minimally invasive botox for tmj san diego procedure. Botox works by temporarily relaxing the masseter and temporal muscles, which are often overworked due to teeth grinding or stress. This specialized therapeutic approach reduces the force of jaw clenching, effectively eliminating tension headaches and jaw soreness. You can learn more about how we use this technology on our Therapeutic and Cosmetic Botox page.

Advanced Surgical Options and Jaw Surgery San Diego

While conservative treatments are always the first choice, some structural issues within the jaw joint require a more definitive solution. In cases of severe misalignment or joint degradation, jaw surgery san diego may be recommended to permanently correct the bite and joint position. Our board-certified surgeons utilize advanced 3D imaging to plan these procedures with extreme precision, ensuring that the results are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Holistic Oral Health and Laser Tori Removal

Maintaining oral health often requires addressing other underlying conditions that can complicate jaw function. For instance, some patients experience discomfort due to bony growths in the mouth known as tori. Our clinic offers advanced laser tori removal, a precise and comfortable way to clear these obstructions and prepare the mouth for other treatments. By combining treatments like tori removal with TMJ therapy, we ensure your entire oral environment is optimized for health.

How to Book Your Consultation in San Diego

Taking the first step toward a pain-free life is easy. We recommend potential patients start with a comprehensive consultation where we can perform a physical exam and utilize digital X-rays to see the exact state of your jaw joint. Our team at Elevated Oral Surgery San Diego is dedicated to transparent communication, ensuring you understand every aspect of your treatment plan and the associated costs before we begin.

Elevate Your Life and Restore Your Comfort

Don’t let jaw pain dictate your daily routine any longer. Whether you need a simple therapeutic injection or a more complex surgical correction, our expert team is here to provide the “Elevated” care you deserve. Book Your Appointment today at our San Diego office or call us at (858) 788-9788 to find the relief you’ve been searching for!