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If you are preparing for wisdom teeth removal, you probably have questions about how long it will take.
The actual procedure is often quicker than expected, but your total time at the dental office depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being removed, the complexity of the case, and the type of anesthesia used.
In this blog, we break down the full timeline of wisdom teeth surgery, from the moment you arrive to the start of recovery, so you know exactly what to expect.
We offer wisdom teeth removal at our locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Show Low.
Table of Contents
- What This Procedure Involves
- How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Take?
- Why Some Wisdom Teeth Take Longer to Remove
- Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery
- Book a Wisdom Tooth Consultation Today!
Wisdom teeth removal usually takes 40 to 90 minutes, but your full time in the clinic, including anesthesia prep and post-op care, may reach two hours.
What This Procedure Involves
Wisdom tooth removal is often recommended when the teeth are impacted, infected, or causing crowding that affects your other teeth. The procedure typically includes:
- Review of your X-rays and medical history.
- Discussion of symptoms, such as swelling, pain, or risk of infection.
- Choice of sedation based on your comfort level and case complexity.
- Surgical removal of erupted or impacted teeth. Sometimes we divide the tooth into sections for easier removal.
- Cleaning of the tooth socket and placement of stitches if needed.
- Gauze placement, monitoring, and post-operative care instructions before discharge.
This is a common procedure performed by our skilled oral surgeon. We make the process efficient, predictable, and as low-stress as possible. From consultation to recovery, our team ensures you are informed and comfortable every step of the way.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Take?
You might be surprised by how quick wisdom teeth removal can be. While it sounds like a major procedure, most surgeries are completed in under an hour.
Simple extractions may take just a few minutes per tooth, while more complex cases, like impacted or partially erupted teeth, may require a bit more time.
If you are having all four removed at once, plan for the full appointment to last around 60 to 90 minutes, including prep and recovery time in the chair. Thanks to modern sedation techniques, you will likely be relaxed or asleep and unaware of the time passing.
Surgery With Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia you receive affects how long you will be at the office. In addition to the procedure itself, anesthesia involves prep time, monitoring, and recovery.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect with each option:
- Local anesthesia with nitrous oxide: Minimal setup. You remain awake and alert, and you can typically leave shortly after your procedure.
- IV sedation: Provides deeper relaxation. It requires more preparation and post-op monitoring, so your visit will take longer.
- General anesthesia: You will be fully asleep during surgery. This option involves the most prep and the longest recovery time before discharge.
If you are receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia, plan to be in the office for about 1.5 to 2 hours, from check-in to check-out. With local anesthesia or nitrous alone, your visit may be significantly shorter.
No matter which type of anesthesia you choose, we monitor you closely to ensure a smooth, safe experience from start to finish.
Why Some Wisdom Teeth Take Longer to Remove
Not every case is straightforward. Some teeth are more stubborn and require more work.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: These sit below the gums or bone and need surgical exposure.
- Odd angles or deep roots: Teeth lying sideways or close to permanent adult teeth demand precision.
- Infected wisdom teeth: Require extra time for thorough cleaning to prevent periodontal disease.
- Extra teeth: While extremely rare, some patients have more than four wisdom teeth, which adds to the surgical procedure.
We evaluate your case during the consultation so you know what to expect well before the appointment.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery
The procedure is quick, but healing takes time. Recovery happens in stages, and following post-op instructions is the best way to avoid complications and support proper healing.
Day 1: Rest
- Stay off your feet. Apply an ice pack in 20-minute intervals.
- Avoid using straws, smoking, or spitting, which can dislodge the protective blood clot.
Days 2–4: Swelling and soreness
- Swelling peaks around day 2 or 3.
- Stick to soft foods and liquid food like smoothies, mashed potatoes, or broth.
- Manage discomfort with pain medications or a dentist-approved pain reliever.
Days 5–7: Getting back to normal
- Bruising may appear. You may feel tired but less sore.
- Resume light daily activities, but avoid strenuous activity.
Week 2: Deeper healing
- Gums continue to close, and bone starts to rebuild in the tooth socket.
- A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to check the extraction sites and remove stitches.
- By the end of this week, most patients return to normal activities and begin eating solid foods again.
Pro Tip
Ask your oral surgeon how many wisdom teeth need removal, whether they are impacted or decayed, and what type of anesthesia they recommend. These answers define your timeline and recovery process.
Real Reviews by Satisfied Patients
“I was treated for 3 wisdom teeth extractions. Staff were nice, they explained everything to me before the procedure. I always have anxiety going to the dentist but they were great! I was contacted later in the day to ask how I was doing, which was very courteous.”
“My son had all four wisdom teeth out, he did great!! Staff are exceptionally professional especially the ones that answer the phones you immediately feel welcomed by them. Making an appointment is simple and explained very well. Definitely would come here again for our families needs.”
Read more patient testimonials
Book a Wisdom Tooth Consultation Today!
If you are experiencing pain, crowding, or signs of impacted wisdom teeth, early evaluation can make all the difference. At AZ Max Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, we provide expert wisdom tooth extractions with personalized care and a smooth recovery process..
To schedule a wisdom tooth consultation at one of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form. We have locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low.
