Wisdom Teeth Removal in Charleston, SC

What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars that do not fully erupt due to limited space in the mouth or their position in the jaw. They may remain partially covered by gum tissue or trapped beneath the bone, which can lead to a range of issues, including:

• Jaw pain or swelling
• Gum inflammation or infection
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Cyst or abscess formation
• Chronic headaches or pressure

Early removal of impacted wisdom teeth is often recommended, especially before they cause complications or require more invasive surgical intervention.

When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Recommended?

Wisdom teeth are generally removed if they are causing pain, recurring infections, contributing to crowding or shifting of teeth, damaging neighboring teeth or bone, or interfering with orthodontic treatment. Using 3D CT cone beam imaging, Dr. Hehr thoroughly evaluates the position of your wisdom teeth to plan a safe, precise extraction tailored to your unique case.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal is performed in our Charleston surgical suite using either local anesthesia, I.V. sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and patient preference. The procedure includes:

• A detailed pre-op consultation and imaging
• Comfortable sedation for a stress-free experience
• Surgical removal of erupted or impacted molars
• Suture placement as needed to support healing

The procedure usually lasts between 30–60 minutes, and patients are released the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.

Post-Operative Care

Recovery after wisdom teeth removal is typically straightforward. Some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort is normal during the first few days and can be managed with prescribed medication and cold compresses. Post-operative care includes:

• Rest and limited activity for the first 24–48 hours
• Avoiding hard, crunchy, or hot foods for several days
• Following a soft food diet (soups, yogurt, smoothies)
• Rinsing gently with salt water after the first day
• Keeping the surgical site clean and avoiding straws or smoking

Most patients resume normal routines within 3–5 days. A follow-up visit is scheduled to ensure proper healing.