TLDR;

Wisdom teeth surgery typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how many teeth are being removed and their complexity. A simple extraction of one erupted tooth may take as little as 20 minutes, while removing four impacted wisdom teeth could stretch the procedure to over an hour.

What Is Wisdom Teeth Surgery and Why Is It Necessary?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge between ages 17 and 25. In many cases, they cause problems due to lack of space in the jaw, leading to:

• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Swollen or infected gums
• Tooth crowding
• Cysts or damage to nearby teeth

Not everyone needs wisdom teeth removed, but if they are impacted, growing at an angle, or causing oral health issues, extraction becomes essential. At Buford Dentist, we evaluate your unique condition to determine whether surgery is necessary.

How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Surgery Typically Take?

The average surgery time for wisdom teeth removal is between 45 minutes to 1 hour. The timeline varies depending on several factors:

• Single erupted tooth: 15 to 30 minutes
• All four erupted teeth: 30 to 45 minutes
• Four impacted teeth: 60 to 90 minutes

   

Same-day surgery is standard practice. You'll arrive, undergo the procedure, recover from anesthesia, and return home within a few hours.

Key Factors That Affect the Length of Surgery

Several variables can influence how long your wisdom teeth extraction will take:

1. Level of Impaction

• Erupted teeth: Easier and quicker to remove
• Partially impacted: Requires more time and possibly bone removal
• Fully impacted or angled teeth: Longest and most complex

2. Number of Teeth Being Removed

• One tooth may only take 15–30 minutes
• All four may take up to 90 minutes

3. Type of Anesthesia

• Local anesthesia: Shorter prep and recovery
• IV sedation or general anesthesia: Adds time before and after surgery for monitoring

4. Surgeon’s Technique and Experience

• Experienced oral surgeons can work faster and more efficiently
• Advanced tools like piezoelectric instruments can reduce surgical time

5. Presence of Infection or Inflammation

• Pre-existing swelling, cysts, or infection can slow down the process
• Infected tissue may need additional care during removal

Personalized Timelines Based on Patient Cases

Case: Single Erupted Tooth

Time: 15 to 25 minutes

• Minimal bleeding
• Local anesthesia only
• Quick post-op recovery

   

Case: Four Impacted Teeth

Time: 60 to 90 minutes

• General anesthesia recommended
• Bone cutting and tooth sectioning may be needed
• Longer recovery and more swelling expected

   

Factors That Speed Things Up

• Good health and no infections
• Simple tooth alignment
• Highly skilled oral surgeon

   

Factors That Slow Things Down

• Impacted or angled wisdom teeth
• Pre-surgery anxiety or medical conditions
• Need for bone removal or stitches

   

What Happens During the Procedure? [Step-by-Step Guide]

1. Pre-Surgery Preparation
   • Review medical history
   • Discuss anesthesia options
   • Sign consent forms
2. Sedation and Numbing
   • Local, IV, or general anesthesia administered
   • Area thoroughly numbed

In extremely rare cases, a no anesthesia extraction is performed—typically only when anesthesia isn’t an option due to medical concerns or patient refusal. These cases are highly painful and not generally advised.

1. Tooth Removal Process
   • Gum incision (for impacted teeth)
   • Tooth sectioning (if needed)
   • Removal using forceps
2. Post-Surgical Closure
   • Site is cleaned and stitched
   • Gauze applied for bleeding control
3. Recovery Observation
   • Short stay at the clinic for monitoring
   • Instructions provided for home care

What to Expect Immediately After Surgery

After the procedure, most patients stay at the clinic for 30–60 minutes for monitoring. Here's what to expect in the first few hours:

• Mild to moderate bleeding (controlled with gauze)
• Swelling and jaw stiffness
  
• Numbness from anesthesia
  
• Disorientation if sedated

   

First 24 Hours – Key Guidelines:

• Rest and avoid physical exertion
• Keep your head elevated
• Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods
• Do not smoke or use straws

   

Full Recovery Timeline: Days 1 to 14+

Recovery time varies, but here’s a general guideline:

Day 1

• Swelling and bleeding are common
• Stick to soft, cold foods
• Pain managed with prescribed meds

   

Day 3

• Swelling peaks
• Bruising may appear
• Resume light activity

   

Day 7

• Stitches (if non-dissolvable) may be removed
• Most pain and swelling subsides
• Normal eating can begin cautiously

   

Day 14+

• Full recovery for most patients
• Resume all normal activities

Best Foods to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Eating the right foods can speed up recovery and reduce discomfort. For a complete list of what to eat (and what to skip), check out our Post-Surgery Eating Guide.

First 24 Hours – Stick to:

• Applesauce
• Greek yogurt
• Mashed potatoes
• Smoothies (no straw)

   

Days 2–7 – Add in:

• Scrambled eggs
• Soft pasta
• Cottage cheese
• Blended soups

   

Avoid:

• Crunchy or hard foods (chips, nuts)
• Acidic or spicy foods
• Alcohol and caffeine
• Sticky candies or chewing gum

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How painful is wisdom teeth surgery?

With proper anesthesia, the procedure is painless. Post-op soreness is common but manageable with medication.

When can I go back to work or school?

Many patients return within 2 to 3 days, depending on the surgery's complexity.

What are signs of complications?

Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours,
Severe swelling or fever,
Foul taste or pus (signs of infection),
Dry socket (intense pain 2–3 days post-op)

When should I call my dentist?

Contact Buford Dentist if you notice signs of infection, prolonged bleeding, or unmanageable pain.

How Long Does It Take to Remove All Four Wisdom Teeth?

If you're planning to have all four wisdom teeth removed, expect:

• Surgery Time: 45 to 90 minutes depending on impaction
• Initial Recovery: 2 to 3 days of rest
• Full Recovery: 10 to 14 days for most patients

Key Considerations:

• Choose an experienced oral surgeon
• Follow pre- and post-op instructions
• Plan a few days off for recovery
• Eat soft foods and hydrate

At Buford Dentist, we help make the entire process safe, efficient, and as comfortable as possible. Whether you're facing a simple extraction or a complex case, our expert team is here to guide you from start to finish.