Wisdom Tooth Removal in New Westminster, BC

Wisdom teeth - the third molars at the very back of the mouth - typically emerge between ages 17 and 25. When they come through properly and there is enough room, they can be kept and cared for like any other tooth. In many cases, though, wisdom teeth become impacted, cause crowding, or create hygiene challenges - and removing them early makes things much simpler.

At Foundation Dental in New Westminster, we assess and remove wisdom teeth in-clinic. Sedation (oral sedation / laughing gas) is available for patients who would like to feel relaxed and comfortable throughout. Wisdom tooth extractions are covered under the CDCP for eligible patients.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Sometimes Need Attention?

  1. Impaction - the tooth is unable to erupt fully, causing pressure

  2. Partial eruption - creates a small tissue flap that can trap bacteria over time which can irritate the gums, cause cavities and may even lead to an infection

  3. Crowding - pressure against neighbouring teeth

  4. Difficulty keeping clean - wisdom teeth at the very back of the mouth can be harder to reach with a toothbrush

  5. Cysts or pressure on adjacent teeth in cases of deep impaction

What to Expect During Wisdom Tooth Removal

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic.

Sedation (oral sedation / laughing gas) is available for patients who would prefer extra comfort, or who are having multiple teeth removed at once. Many patients choose to have all four wisdom teeth removed in a single appointment under sedation, which means just one recovery period.

Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?

Not at all. If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, well-aligned, and easy to clean, there is no reason they cannot stay. We assess each tooth individually with digital X-rays and only recommend removal when there is a clear clinical benefit.

In some situations, we recommend addressing wisdom teeth proactively in younger patients, when the roots are not yet fully formed. This typically means a simpler procedure and faster recovery.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal

  1. Mild swelling and some tenderness for the first day or two is normal and manageable

  2. Soft foods recommended for the first 3 to 5 days

  3. Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or vigorous rinsing for 24 to 72 hours to support healing

  4. Most patients return to normal activities within 2 to 3 days

  5. Dissolving sutures are used - no need to return for removal

Frequently Asked Questions - Wisdom Teeth

  • Signs include pressure or discomfort at the back of the mouth, swollen or tender gum tissue around the area, or a bad taste or smell near the tooth. A dental X-ray gives us the clearest picture.

  • Yes, many patients prefer this so there is only one recovery. It is a common and very manageable approach, especially with sedation.

  • Yes wisdom tooth removal is a covered service under the CDCP for eligible patients.

  • Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged before healing is complete. Avoiding smoking and drinking through straws in the days after surgery greatly reduces the risk.

  • Generally the late teens or early twenties, before the roots are fully formed. Earlier removal typically means a simpler procedure and quicker recovery.

Book a wisdom tooth assessment at Foundation Dental

Give us a call at 778-400-8335 or book now to request an appointment directly.

885 Carnarvon St
New Westminster, BC V3M 1G2

(778) 400-8335
info@foundationdental.ca

Book Now