Taking a tooth out is a last resort at Brampton Smiles. We try to save teeth first. When removal is the right choice, you get a clear plan, comfortable care and simple aftercare instructions. Most extractions take 20 to 45 minutes under local anesthetic, with topical gel first and oral sedation if you are anxious.
Do your wisdom teeth need to come out?
Wisdom teeth usually come in between ages 17 and 25. Most people have four, some have fewer, and a few have none. Removal is not automatic. X-rays and your exam decide, not your age. We recommend removal when there is:
- repeated gum infection (pericoronitis) over a partly erupted tooth
- decay in the wisdom tooth or the molar in front of it
- bone loss on the second molar caused by the wisdom tooth's angle
- a cyst or other problem around an impacted tooth
- pressure that is damaging the neighbouring molar's roots
- a tooth that cannot be kept clean
When other teeth need to be removed
- a vertical root fracture
- decay far below the gum and bone
- advanced gum disease
- a failed root canal that cannot be re-treated
- a severe infection that does not respond to treatment
- crowding that an orthodontic plan requires
Simple or surgical extraction?
A simple extraction loosens the tooth and lifts it out. A surgical extraction uses a small cut in the gum, and the tooth may be sectioned and removed in pieces, which is gentler on the surrounding bone. Complex impacted cases may be referred to an oral surgeon. Some infections need antibiotics first.
Comfort and sedation
We numb the area with topical gel and local anesthetic. For nerves or more involved extractions, oral sedation is available. You will need an adult to take you home. See our sedation dentistry page.
Replacing the tooth
A missing tooth can let neighbouring teeth shift and the bone shrink. We will talk to you about replacing it with an implant, a bridge or a partial denture. Wisdom teeth at the very back usually do not need replacing.
Cost, insurance and CDCP
Extended plans often cover simple and surgical extractions at 50 to 80 percent. CDCP covers extractions for eligible patients, and we are a participating provider. For complex cases we run a predetermination so your coverage is confirmed in writing first. We direct-bill Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield and CDCP, and offer 0% in-house payment plans.
Before Your Visit
- Bring your insurance or CDCP card and a list of medications.
- Tell us about blood thinners, heart conditions, diabetes and allergies.
- If you are having sedation, arrange a ride home and follow the eating and drinking instructions we give you.
- Wear comfortable clothes and plan a quiet day afterward.
- If you have swelling or fever, call us first. You may need antibiotics before removal.
After Your Treatment
First 24 hours
- Bite on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes. Replace it and bite for another 30 minutes if oozing continues.
- Use ice, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, and avoid hard exercise.
- Do not rinse, spit, use a straw or smoke. The blood clot is the dressing.
- Start pain relief as the numbness fades. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen works for most people. Follow the label.
Days 2 to 3. Swelling usually peaks around day 2. You can start gentle warm salt-water rinses (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water).
Days 4 to 7. Comfort steadily improves, and stitches, if used, dissolve on their own.
Weeks 2 to 4. The gum closes over the socket. Bone keeps filling in for several months.
Diet. Soft foods at first, and chew on the other side. Drink plenty of fluids from a glass.
Call us if pain suddenly gets worse around days 3 to 5 (it could be dry socket), bleeding does not stop with pressure, swelling gets worse after day 3, or you have a fever or trouble swallowing or opening your mouth. Our phone is (905) 793-8668.
Visit Brampton Smiles
50 Sunny Meadow Blvd, Unit 300, Brampton, ON L6R 0Y7, near Bovaird Drive East. Phone: (905) 793-8668.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 10 AM to 7 PM. Tue, Fri 10 AM to 5 PM. Sat 9 AM to 2 PM. Sun closed.
Call to book your wisdom teeth or extraction visit.
Related pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wisdom tooth removal hurt?
The area is numbed, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Discomfort afterward usually responds to over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long is recovery?
Most people feel comfortable within 3 to 4 days. Full gum healing takes a few weeks.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket is when the blood clot is lost, causing sharp pain 3 to 5 days after the extraction. Avoid straws, smoking and hard rinsing in the first 48 hours.
Can I get a tooth taken out the same day?
We offer same-day appointments where possible for acute pain.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Only the ones that cause problems or are likely to.
Do I need sedation?
Not always. Oral sedation is available if you are nervous or the extraction is involved.
Is wisdom teeth removal covered by CDCP?
For eligible patients, extractions are covered. Complex cases get a predetermination first.