General Dentistry in Thunder Bay, ON

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Thunder Bay, ON

Wisdom teeth don’t always have enough room to come in properly. Dr. Ameen checks how yours are positioned and explains whether removal makes sense, and whether your case is straightforward or better handled by a specialist.

What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, usually the last teeth to come in, typically in the late teens or early twenties. Removal means taking one or more of them out when there isn’t enough room, or when they’re coming in at an angle that’s hard to clean or maintain. Dr. Ameen examines your wisdom teeth and reviews X-rays to see how they’re positioned. Straightforward cases, where the tooth has fully come in and is easy to access, can often be handled at our office. Impacted teeth, or ones with a more complex root or position, are referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Why Wisdom Teeth Are Often Removed

There are a few common reasons wisdom teeth get removed. Here’s what Dr. Ameen looks for.

Not Enough Room

Many jaws don’t have space for a third set of molars, which can cause crowding or push against neighboring teeth.

Partial Eruption

A wisdom tooth that only partly comes through the gum can create a spot where food and bacteria collect.

Awkward Angle

A wisdom tooth coming in sideways or at an angle can be difficult to clean and may affect the tooth next to it.

What Happens During Treatment

Here’s what to expect for a straightforward wisdom tooth removal.

Exam and X-rays

Dr. Ameen examines your wisdom teeth and reviews X-rays to see their position and root structure.

Discussing Your Options

He explains whether your case is straightforward or whether a referral to a specialist makes more sense.

Numbing and Removal

For cases handled at our office, the area is numbed, and the tooth is loosened and removed.

Aftercare Instructions

You’ll leave with clear instructions on managing swelling, diet, and healing over the following days.

Recovering After Removal

Bite down gently on gauze as directed to help a clot form in the socket
Stick to soft foods and lukewarm liquids for the first few days
Avoid using a straw, smoking, or rinsing forcefully, since suction can dislodge the clot
Apply a cold compress to help manage swelling in the first day or two

Is This Right for You?

Whether wisdom teeth removal fits your situation depends on a few factors.

Fully Erupted, Easy to Access Teeth

Wisdom teeth that have fully come in and are simple to reach can often be removed at our office.

Impacted or Complex Cases

Teeth still under the gum, at difficult angles, or with complex roots are typically referred to a specialist.

General Dentist Providing Care

All care is provided by Dr. Ahmed Ameen Al-Obaidi (Dr. Ameen), a General Dentist, with over 20 years of experience in general dentistry. More complex cases are referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Understanding Cost and Insurance

Billing for wisdom teeth removal depends on how many teeth are involved and how straightforward the case is, so Dr. Ameen will give you an exact quote after your exam. Whatever fee is quoted covers the full procedure, including any lab costs involved, and it applies the same way to every patient regardless of insurance coverage. Our front desk reviews your specific insurance benefits before treatment starts so you know what to expect.

A Quote Before You Start

You’ll know the cost of your procedure before any work begins.

Insurance Coordination

We check your specific benefits ahead of time so you know what your plan covers.

Referral Costs, If Needed

If your case is referred to a specialist, that office will give you its own separate quote.

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs

No, some come in with enough room and cause no issues. Dr. Ameen checks your specific X-rays and position before recommending removal.

Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?

No, some come in with enough room and cause no issues. Dr. Ameen checks your specific X-rays and position before recommending removal.

Will I be referred to a specialist?

Depends on the case. Impacted or complex teeth are usually referred. Straightforward, fully erupted teeth can often be removed at our office instead.

Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?

The area is numbed first, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Some swelling and soreness afterward is common and usually eases within a few days.

How long is recovery?

Most people feel noticeably better within a few days to a week. Full healing of the socket takes longer, but the worst of the discomfort tends to pass quickly with proper aftercare.

Does insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?

Most plans cover at least part of the cost. We confirm your specific coverage first. Our front desk checks this before treatment starts so you know what to expect.

Ready for a healthier smile?

New patients welcome. Direct billing to most insurance plans.

Redwood Dental has been serving families across Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario for over two decades.