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A complete guide from the team at New Horizon Dental Center
Reviewed by: Dr. Keber, D.D.S — proud to serve our community's dental needs with compassion, warmth, and expertise.
Last updated: 7/1/2026
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, usually between the late teens and early twenties. For some people, they come in cleanly. For many others, there is not enough room in the jaw, and the teeth become impacted. If you are in Gilbert, AZ, or Maricopa County and wondering whether your wisdom teeth are a problem, this guide walks through what impaction is, the warning signs to watch for, the risks of leaving them untreated, and exactly what removal involves at New Horizon Dental Center.
A wisdom tooth is impacted when it does not have enough room to emerge or develop normally. Instead of erupting cleanly through the gum, it stays trapped beneath the gum or bone, or pushes against the tooth in front of it. An impacted tooth can be partially erupted, where part of the crown is visible, or fully impacted and hidden beneath the gum.
There are several types of impaction, classified by the direction the tooth grows:
Knowing the type matters because it affects how straightforward removal will be. Your dentist determines this with a clinical exam and X-rays.
Some impacted wisdom teeth cause no symptoms at all and are only spotted on a routine X-ray. Others make themselves known. It may be time to consult a dental professional about your wisdom teeth if you notice:
If you experience any of these, it is worth scheduling an evaluation. Early attention often makes treatment simpler and recovery smoother.
Ignoring the signs of a problematic wisdom tooth can lead to more serious dental issues over time. Because these teeth sit so far back in the mouth, they are difficult to clean properly, which makes them a magnet for plaque and bacteria. The most common complications of untreated impaction include:
Addressing these issues promptly helps prevent complications and protects your long-term oral health.
Diagnosis starts with a thorough consultation at New Horizon Dental Center. During this visit, our team will:
Imaging allows us to confirm whether the teeth are impacted, what type of impaction is present, and whether removal is recommended. If the teeth are not causing problems and are unlikely to do so, monitoring with regular check-ups may be all that is needed. If removal is the right call, understanding the process in advance helps ease any anxiety.
Wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure, and our goal is to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here is what the day looks like.
We offer local anesthesia or sedation options to minimize discomfort and anxiety, chosen based on the complexity of your case and your preference. From light sedation methods like nitrous oxide to deep sedation methods like IV sedation and general anesthesia, we offer a wide variety of dental sedation options at New Horizon Dental Center, suitable for every patient and every procedure.
The extraction takes place in a sterile, professional environment. The procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are removed and the complexity of the impaction. For an impacted tooth, this may involve making a small incision to access the tooth and, in some cases, removing it in sections for easier, safer extraction. Our team supports you throughout.
Proper care after the procedure is essential for a smooth recovery. We provide detailed post-operative instructions, including:
Most patients feel back to normal within a few days. We are always available if you have questions or notice anything unusual during healing.
Want the full aftercare detail? See our companion guide: Post-Extraction Care: Essential Steps to Avoid Dry Socket and Other Complications
Choosing the right team for your wisdom teeth removal makes a real difference in your experience and your outcome. Patients in Gilbert, AZ choose us for:
Thanks to our world-class dental professionals and generous donors, we are able to offer affordable dental implant solutions for those who need it most. Exams, X-rays, fillings, root canals, oral surgery, and crowns are also available at a reduced price. We offer a variety of flexible financing solutions to keep quality care in Maricopa County, AZ.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Well-aligned, healthy wisdom teeth that are not causing problems may not need removal. The decision depends on their position, your symptoms, and what your X-rays show. Regular check-ups let us monitor them and recommend treatment at the right time.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure itself is done under anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during it. Afterward, some soreness, swelling, and mild jaw stiffness for a few days is normal, similar to a deep bruise, and is managed with the aftercare steps above.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients feel back to normal within a few days, though full healing of the site takes a bit longer. Following your aftercare instructions closely is the best way to keep recovery quick and comfortable.
At what age should wisdom teeth be evaluated?
Dental professionals often recommend that wisdom teeth be evaluated before age 20. Removing them earlier, when the roots are less developed, can make the procedure easier and recovery faster.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
Cost depends on the number of teeth and the complexity of the extraction. Total cost ranges from $750 to $ 1,500 depending on your specific case and situation.
If you are experiencing symptoms or simply want a professional evaluation of your wisdom teeth, the team at New Horizon Dental Center is here to help. Contact us today at (480) 664-2270 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards optimal oral health in Gilbert, AZ.
