Wisdom Teeth Removal in Los Angeles

Removal or monitoring: what determines the recommendation?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth. A tooth that cannot fully erupt may be impacted. Pain, infection, decay, gum problems, or damage to a neighboring tooth can be reasons to consider removal. Some healthy, functional wisdom teeth can be monitored instead.

The absence of pain does not settle the question. The clinician considers the examination and appropriate imaging, then explains the benefits and risks of removal or continued observation. Ask what findings support the recommendation in your case.

Discuss your care with Dr. Michael Issakharian

Dr. Michael Issakharian, DDS, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, provides oral-surgery care as part of Cal Dental Group’s specialty team. Wisdom teeth and complex extractions are among his published clinical interests.

Tell the office if you have a referral, recent X-rays, swelling, or pain near the back of your mouth. Ask about provider availability and which records to send. For significant or worsening symptoms, call rather than waiting for an online form response. See our emergency dental appointment information.

What to expect from the evaluation

Prepare for the appointment and the trip home

Follow your clinician’s instructions about eating, drinking, and medication use. These instructions depend on the planned procedure and anesthesia. Ask questions before the treatment date if anything is unclear.

Arrange a responsible adult to accompany you when the treatment plan requires one. Discuss time away from work, classes, exercise, or travel. Scheduling around a school break can help, but treatment availability and recovery cannot be guaranteed to fit a fixed number of days.

For a broader overview of the practice’s surgical care, visit oral surgery in Los Angeles. You can also read how oral surgeons approach wisdom-tooth removal.

Recovery and when to call

Healing varies with the teeth removed, the procedure, and your health. Follow the written instructions for rest, food, oral hygiene, and any prescribed medication. Ask when it is appropriate to resume your usual activities. Avoid smoking and follow the clinician’s advice about straws and anything that could disturb the extraction site.

Contact the treating office if pain or swelling worsens unexpectedly, bleeding persists, or other symptoms concern you. Difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly increasing neck or facial swelling, or uncontrolled bleeding needs emergency medical attention. Call 911 when appropriate.

Read our oral-surgery recovery guide, while following the individualized instructions from your clinician.

Wisdom-teeth appointment questions

Does everyone need all four wisdom teeth removed?

No. The recommendation depends on the condition and position of each tooth and the overall evaluation. Ask which teeth need treatment and why.

Can I keep wisdom teeth that do not hurt?

Some teeth can be monitored. Pain alone does not show whether a tooth is healthy, so discuss examination findings and a monitoring plan with the clinician.

What affects the cost?

The number and position of teeth, complexity, imaging, anesthesia, and coverage can affect the estimate. Request an itemized explanation and ask what follow-up is included. Confirm any extraction offer with the office.

Will my consultation include the procedure?

Only if the office and clinician have specifically confirmed that plan. An evaluation, additional records, or preparation may need to happen first.

Request a wisdom-teeth consultation

Visit Cal Dental Group, 936 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 101, Los Angeles, CA 90019. Call 323-934-2804 or request an appointment. Confirm the clinician, date, and appointment type before traveling.

Further patient information: AAOMS guidance on wisdom-teeth assessment, preparing for wisdom-teeth surgery, and postoperative care.