Wisdom teeth can become impacted, cause pain, or affect the health of nearby teeth when there is not enough room for them to grow into a healthy position. Early evaluation can help determine whether removal is recommended and the appropriate timing for treatment.
At Foley & Le Oral Surgery, wisdom teeth removal is carefully planned to provide safe, comfortable surgical care for teens and adults.
Schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified oral surgeons. Call (303) 444-2255.
Experienced Care for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Having wisdom teeth removed can feel stressful, especially for teens and younger patients. Our surgeons focus on making the process as comfortable and straightforward as possible, from the initial consultation through recovery.
- Same-Day Consultation and Surgery
- Board-Certified Oral Surgeons
- Multiple Anesthesia Options
- Clear Post-Operative Instructions
- Support Throughout Recovery
“Having performed wisdom teeth removal thousands of times, I understand that while this is a routine procedure for us, it is a significant anxiety filled milestone for many of our patients and their families. My priority is ensuring everyone feels fully supported from the moment they arrive. By combining extensive clinical experience with compassionate, clear communication, we create an environment where patients and their families feel calm, informed, and genuinely cared for throughout the entire surgical journey.” Dr. Benjamin Foley
Advanced Surgical Expertise in Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is performed by a team of board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with extensive training in tooth extraction, anesthesia, and the management of impacted teeth.
Dr. Benjamin Foley has extensive experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, including the removal of impacted and complex wisdom teeth. His approach emphasizes careful surgical planning and a comfortable, well-managed treatment experience.
Dr. Thao Le provides surgical care for patients with both erupted and impacted wisdom teeth. She takes an individualized approach to treatment, with careful attention to patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Dr. Michael Schiappa provides surgical care for both routine and complex wisdom teeth cases. He uses careful evaluation and treatment planning to determine the appropriate approach for each patient.
Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop and typically begin to emerge in the late teens or early twenties. Some grow into a healthy position and do not require treatment. Others do not have enough room to fully erupt or become trapped beneath the gums or within the jawbone.
Removal may be recommended when wisdom teeth are causing or are likely to contribute to:
- Pain or tenderness
- Infection or inflammation around the tooth
- Damage to a neighboring tooth
- Difficulty keeping the area clean
- Cysts or other changes around an impacted tooth
- An unfavorable position that may lead to future problems
Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed in every situation. An evaluation with an oral surgeon can determine whether removal or continued monitoring is appropriate.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Evaluated?
Wisdom teeth are generally first evaluated during the mid-teenage years by a dentist, orthodontist, or oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dental X-rays can show how the teeth are developing, whether they are impacted, and how they are positioned within the jaw.
You do not need to wait until wisdom teeth become painful to have them evaluated. Early evaluation allows potential problems to be identified before symptoms develop and gives you and your surgeon an opportunity to determine the appropriate timing for treatment.
The decision to remove wisdom teeth is based on their development and position as well as the individual needs of the patient.
“With training from two top-tiered academic programs and over a decade of private practice experience, I provide evidence-based surgical care with a warm and considerate touch. Your safety and comfort remain our top priorities, and we provide an environment where you and your family will receive a premier experience.” Dr. Thao Le
Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation
Your consultation allows your oral surgeon to evaluate your wisdom teeth and develop an individualized treatment plan.
Dental X-rays are used to assess the position of the teeth, their roots, and the surrounding structures. Your surgeon will also review your medical history and medications and discuss any health considerations that may affect treatment.
If removal is recommended, you will discuss your anesthesia options, how to prepare for surgery, and what to expect during recovery.
“With advanced training and experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, I recognize that while wisdom teeth removal is common in our practice, every patient brings their own questions, concerns, and expectations to the experience. My approach is grounded in the latest recommendations and clinical guidelines from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, while also taking into account each patient’s individual needs and circumstances. Through clear, compassionate communication and thoughtful, personalized care, my goal is to ensure that you and your family feel comfortable, informed, and confident throughout the experience, from your initial consultation through recovery.” Dr. Michael Schiappa
Anesthesia Options for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Several anesthesia options are available to help keep you comfortable during wisdom teeth removal.
Options include:
- Nitrous oxide: Provides relaxation and helps reduce anxiety while you remain awake and aware of your surroundings.
- IV moderate sedation: Provides a deeper level of relaxation. You remain conscious but may remember little about the procedure.
- IV deep sedation: You will not be conscious and generally will not have significant recall of the surgery.
Your surgeon will recommend an anesthesia option based on your procedure, medical history, and individual needs.
Learn More About Anesthesia Options
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day.
If a tooth has not fully erupted, your surgeon may make a small opening in the gum tissue to access it. Depending on its position, the tooth may be removed whole or divided into smaller sections to allow for gentle removal. In some cases, a small amount of surrounding bone may also be removed to safely access the tooth.
Once the wisdom teeth have been removed, the surgical sites are cleaned and stitches may be placed when needed.
After surgery, you will rest in our office until you are ready to return home. If sedation is used, a responsible adult will need to drive you home.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal varies depending on the number and position of the teeth removed and the complexity of surgery. Soreness, swelling, bruising, and jaw stiffness are common during the first few days.
Generally, the first two days are the most uncomfortable. By around the third day, many patients begin to notice improvement and can gradually return to a more substantial diet and normal daily activities.
You will receive detailed post-operative instructions explaining how to care for the surgical sites, keep the areas clean, manage discomfort, and support proper healing.
Long-Lasting Pain Relief With Exparel®
Exparel is a long-lasting local anesthetic that can be placed in the surgical areas during wisdom teeth removal to provide extended pain relief after surgery. The medication is released gradually and can help reduce the amount of prescription opioid pain medication needed during recovery.
We may also prescribe Journavx®, a non-narcotic medication that can help manage discomfort and decrease the need for narcotic pain medication following wisdom teeth removal.
Patient Video Testimonials
Jayke, Wisdom Teeth Removal
Scarlett, Wisdom Teeth Removal
Jackson, Wisdom Teeth Removal
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
If you have Delta Dental Premier or Cigna, your estimated portion is collected at the time of service. For all other plans, payment is due in full, and any insurance reimbursement will be sent to you once your claim is processed.
Financing options are also available through Cherry, which allows you to split treatment costs into manageable monthly payments.
Schedule a Wisdom Tooth Evaluation
Wisdom teeth care at Foley & Le Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons is centered on surgeon-led treatment, appropriate anesthesia, careful planning, and support throughout recovery.
To book a consultation at our oral surgery office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 444-2255 or visit us at 1420 28th St, UNIT 100, Boulder, CO.
Call UsFAQs
Do wisdom teeth need to be removed if they do not hurt?
Not necessarily. Some wisdom teeth can remain in place without causing problems. However, the absence of pain does not always mean a wisdom tooth is healthy or positioned favorably. Dental imaging can identify impacted teeth, damage to neighboring teeth, or other concerns that may not cause noticeable symptoms.
Do all four wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. The number of teeth removed depends on their position, development, and whether they are causing or are likely to cause problems. Your surgeon will evaluate each wisdom tooth and recommend which teeth, if any, should be removed.
When can I return to school or work after wisdom teeth removal?
You will not be able to return to school or work on the day of surgery. Many patients allow one to three days for initial recovery, although more time may be needed after a more involved procedure.
Can I drive myself home after wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is commonly performed with IV sedation. If you receive sedation, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home. Patients should not drive for 24 hours following sedation.
Where can I get my wisdom teeth removed in Boulder?
Foley & Le Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons provides wisdom teeth evaluations and removal at our Boulder office. Dr. Benjamin Foley, Dr. Thao Le, and Dr. Michael Schiappa treat both erupted and impacted wisdom teeth and offer multiple anesthesia options for treatment.
