Wisdom Teeth Removal in Coquitlam: What You Need to Know

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth may not have enough space to grow in comfortably — and when that happens they can contribute to pain, infection, or changes in how nearby teeth sit. We provide careful assessments and personalized removal when needed, so you understand your options clearly and feel supported throughout.

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed — some people have enough room in their jaw for the teeth to grow without causing trouble. We monitor wisdom teeth during routine exams and may recommend removal in a few situations.

Impacted: an impacted wisdom tooth can develop a cyst on or near the root. Left untreated, that cyst could cause significant damage, potentially destroying the bone that supports your other teeth and harming the roots of nearby healthy teeth.

Trapped: when wisdom teeth are positioned improperly they often create a pocket that is difficult to clean, trapping food debris and providing an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria.

Partially erupted: when a wisdom tooth only partially emerges it creates a flap of gum tissue easily penetrated by bacteria, allowing infection (pericoronitis) to develop beneath the gum line — often causing pain, localized swelling, and jaw stiffness.

Our dentist makes a recommendation based on X-rays, the position of the teeth, your symptoms, and overall oral health.

Most patients recover within several days to a week. Healing timelines vary depending on how many teeth were removed, whether they were impacted, and your general health.

Blood clots will form — take care not to dislodge them in the first 24 hours. By day two or three, swelling of the mouth and cheeks should improve. Within seven to ten days jaw stiffness and soreness should subside and stitches dissolve. By two weeks any mild bruising on the face should heal.

Why is wisdom teeth removal often recommended?

It's commonly recommended when third molars lack space to erupt properly, increasing the risk of pain, infection, or crowding — advised only after careful evaluation of X-rays, symptoms, and overall oral health.

What problems can impacted wisdom teeth cause?

They can trap bacteria, damage nearby teeth, or lead to cysts and gum infections if left untreated. We monitor them closely, and removal may prevent more serious complications over time.

What happens during a wisdom teeth consultation?

X-rays, an oral exam, and a discussion of whether removal is necessary — with clear explanations and care planned around your comfort and needs.

Is wisdom teeth removal painful?

It's performed with local anaesthesia to manage discomfort and anxiety. Most patients report pressure rather than pain, with soreness afterward improving over several days.

What is recovery like after wisdom teeth removal?

Temporary swelling, mild discomfort, and gradual healing over one to two weeks. We provide detailed instructions to protect blood clots, reduce swelling, and support smooth healing.