Oral Surgery
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Phoenix, AZ
Board-certified oral surgeon Dr. Skip Harris provides expert wisdom teeth evaluations and extractions at two Phoenix-area locations.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth — also called third molars — are the last set of permanent teeth to develop, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth.
Because modern jaws often lack sufficient space to accommodate these teeth, wisdom teeth frequently become impacted — meaning they are unable to fully erupt into a normal position. This can lead to pain, infection, crowding, and damage to neighboring teeth.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Removal is not always necessary. Some patients have wisdom teeth that erupt fully, are properly aligned, and cause no problems. In these cases, routine monitoring may be all that is needed.
However, early evaluation is recommended — ideally in the mid-to-late teenage years — because younger patients tend to heal more predictably and complications are less common. Dr. Harris will review your X-rays and clinical findings to help you understand whether removal is advisable for your specific situation.
Common Reasons for Removal
- Impaction — the tooth is blocked from fully erupting
- Partial eruption creating a pocket where bacteria can accumulate
- Crowding or pressure on adjacent teeth
- Cyst or tumor formation around an unerupted tooth
- Recurrent infection or gum disease around the wisdom tooth
- Tooth decay in a wisdom tooth that cannot be properly restored
Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause immediate symptoms, which is why regular dental X-rays are important. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
How Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Consultation & Examination
Dr. Harris will review your dental and medical history, examine your mouth, and discuss your symptoms and concerns.
3D Imaging
Advanced cone-beam CT or panoramic X-rays allow Dr. Harris to assess the exact position of each wisdom tooth, its proximity to nerves, and the complexity of the extraction.
Anesthesia Selection
You and Dr. Harris will discuss the anesthesia option that best suits your procedure and comfort level — local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia.
Extraction
The tooth is carefully removed through a small incision in the gum tissue if needed. Impacted teeth may require sectioning into smaller pieces for safe removal.
Closure & Dressing
The surgical site is cleaned, and dissolvable sutures are placed as needed. Gauze is applied to help control initial bleeding.
Aftercare Instructions
Before you leave, you will receive detailed written and verbal postoperative instructions, including guidance on diet, activity, medications, and what to watch for during healing.
Sedation & Anesthesia Options
Dr. Harris is specially trained and licensed to administer anesthesia in our office setting, allowing most patients to avoid a hospital visit. Options include:
Local Anesthesia
Numbs the surgical area only. You remain fully awake and aware. Appropriate for straightforward extractions in patients with low anxiety.
IV Sedation (Twilight Sedation)
Administered intravenously, IV sedation produces a deeply relaxed, drowsy state. Most patients have little or no memory of the procedure. You continue to breathe on your own.
General Anesthesia
For complex cases or patients who prefer to be fully unconscious, general anesthesia is available in our office. A responsible adult must drive you home and remain with you for the rest of the day.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the extraction, the number of teeth removed, and the type of anesthesia used. General expectations include:
- Swelling and mild discomfort are normal in the first few days and typically peak around 48–72 hours after surgery.
- Soft foods and cool liquids are recommended initially. Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing, which can disrupt healing.
- Prescribed or over-the-counter medications can help manage discomfort and reduce the risk of infection.
- Most patients are able to return to light daily activities within a few days, though healing of the bone and soft tissue continues over several weeks.
- Patients who receive IV sedation or general anesthesia must have a responsible adult drive them home and stay with them for the remainder of the day.
Why Choose Dr. Harris?
Board-Certified Oral Surgeon
Dr. Brown "Skip" Harris III, DDS, is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with specialized training in surgical extractions and anesthesia administration.
In-Office Anesthesia
Dr. Harris is licensed to administer IV sedation and general anesthesia in our office, so most patients can avoid a hospital setting entirely.
Advanced 3D Imaging
Our state-of-the-art imaging technology allows precise surgical planning, particularly for impacted teeth near important nerves and structures.
Two Phoenix Locations
We serve patients from two convenient Phoenix-area offices, with appointments available Monday through Friday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Schedule a Consultation?
Contact Harris Oral Surgery & Implant Center to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Harris. We serve patients throughout the Phoenix area from two convenient locations.