Wisdom Teeth Removal in Hermitage, TN: A Nashville-Area Patient’s Guide

Wisdom teeth are the last molars (third molars) at the very back of your mouth, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. Most people have four wisdom teeth (one in each corner). Often, there isn’t enough room in the jaw for these teeth to come in properly.

When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully erupt or grows at an angle, it’s called an impacted wisdom tooth. Impacted wisdom teeth are very common – one study found over 72% of young adults had at least one impacted wisdom tooth​. A collection of studies worldwide of over 180,ooo subjects found that nearly 40% of people had at least one impacted wisdom tooth.

Many dentists and oral surgeons recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preventative measure or when they cause problems. Wisdom teeth removal is a routine oral surgery procedure.

This guide will explain the following:

• Why wisdom teeth may need to be removed
• What happens during the extraction surgery
• How recovery works
• The costs of wisdom teeth removal in Nashville, TN
• How to find an experienced oral surgeon.

We’ll also answer frequently asked questions about wisdom tooth extractions to help put your mind at ease.

• How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Hermitage, TN?
• How long is the recovery after wisdom tooth extraction?
• What are the potential complications of wisdom teeth removal?
• Will I be awake during the wisdom teeth removal, and what kind of anesthesia is used?

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth don’t always need removal, but they often cause issues that make extraction necessary. Because they are the last teeth to erupt, they can get stuck in the jaw or grow in the wrong direction (impaction) due to lack of space. Here are common problems caused by wisdom teeth, backed by research:

Impaction and Infection:

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. A partially erupted wisdom tooth can create a flap of gum that traps food and bacteria, leading to a painful infection called pericoronitis. Studies report that about 5% of people experience pericoronitis, almost always involving a wisdom tooth (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

Impacted third molars can also cause gum inflammation and even damage adjacent teeth and bone​ (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). In fact, research has found that keeping an impacted wisdom tooth significantly raises the risk of cavities or gum disease in the neighboring second molar (the tooth next to the wisdom tooth) – one long-term study noted a 4.8-fold increase in such problems when a wisdom tooth was partially impacted (covered by gum)​ (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

Because of these risks, if your dentist sees signs of infection or damage to nearby teeth, they will likely recommend removal.

Crowding and Damage to Other Teeth:

Wisdom teeth are often blamed for crowding or shifting other teeth out of alignment due to pressure. Many orthodontists used to believe that erupting wisdom teeth push the front teeth, causing crookedness. Older studies did find a link between wisdom teeth and crowding​. However, newer research is less certain.

A 2012 randomized trial and a 2023 systematic review both found no clear connection between wisdom teeth and crowding of the front teeth​ (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). Still, lack of space from wisdom teeth can contribute to a tight fit in your jaw, and some dentists worry about potential crowding or bite issues. At minimum, an impacted wisdom tooth pressing on its neighbor can cause that second molar to resorb (dissolve) or develop cavities.

Given these possibilities, many providers err on the side of caution and remove wisdom teeth before they can cause orthodontic relapse or damage.

Cysts or Other Issues:

In rare cases, a sac (follicle) around an unerupted wisdom tooth can fill with fluid and form a cyst. Cysts can hollow out bone or damage the roots of nearby teeth. Very rarely, a benign tumor could form. While these problems aren’t common, they are additional reasons a dentist might advise wisdom tooth extraction as a preventive measure​

Importantly, not all wisdom teeth need to come out. If they are fully erupted, positioned well, and easy to clean, your dentist may recommend leaving them alone but monitoring them. However, many people eventually encounter issues. Studies have shown that between 30% and 60% of people who keep asymptomatic (trouble-free) wisdom teeth end up needing them removed within about 4 to 12 years​ (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

Oral surgeons often suggest removing wisdom teeth in the late teens or early twenties because younger patients tend to heal faster and have fewer complications. The bottom line is that wisdom teeth are typically removed to prevent pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and crowding issues before they worsen​. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your specific case (with an exam and X-rays) and explain whether removal is the best option for you.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

If you’re scheduled for wisdom teeth extraction, knowing the steps can make you more comfortable. Wisdom tooth removal is usually an outpatient oral surgery – you go home the same day.

In our practice, we have two board-certified oral surgeons that are expertly qualified to complete this procedure.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens during a typical wisdom teeth removal:

Anesthesia:

To ensure a pain-free procedure, the surgeon will administer anesthesia. For a simple extraction of one wisdom tooth, local anesthesia (numbing injection in the gums) may be enough. However, if you are having multiple wisdom teeth removed or if you feel anxious, we recommend IV sedation.

IV sedation or general anesthesia will make you drowsy or fully asleep during the surgery. Your oral surgeon will review your medical history and discuss the best anesthesia option for you beforehand.

Preparation:

Once you’re sedated, the dental team will prep your mouth. They may prop your jaw open with a small support. If any wisdom tooth is still under the gum, the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue. They might also remove a bit of bone around the tooth to fully access it.

Extraction of the Tooth:

The surgeon will gently loosen and remove the wisdom tooth. If the tooth is impacted or large, they may section it (cut it into smaller pieces) or remove a small amount of bone for easier removal. The surgeon uses specialized instruments to elevate the tooth and take it out.

Stitches (Sutures):

After removing the tooth, the surgeon will clean the site of any debris or infected tissue. They may place stitches to help the gum heal.

In many cases, dissolvable stitches are used, which will disappear on their own in about 1–2 weeks. If non-dissolvable sutures are used (rare), you’ll schedule a follow-up to have them removed. Sometimes, if the extraction was straightforward, no stitches are needed at all.

Gauze and Recovery:

The surgeon will place a gauze pad over each extraction site to help stop bleeding. You’ll be asked to bite down gently on the gauze to apply pressure.

If you were under IV sedation, you may be taken to a recovery area as you wake up. The dental staff will monitor you until you’re alert and the bleeding is under control.

They will give you instructions for aftercare (and maybe an ice pack for your face to reduce swelling). Because of the sedation, you’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home. Before you leave, you’ll receive guidance on how to manage pain, what to eat, and how to keep the sites clean.

Wisdom teeth removal typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour (for all four teeth, less if fewer teeth).

Recovery Process

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction is generally straightforward, but it does require care and patience. Most people find that the first three days are the most uncomfortable, and then things steadily improve.

Here’s what to expect in terms of timeline, pain management, and diet during recovery:

First 24 Hours:

After the surgery, you will leave the gauze in place for a few hours to allow a blood clot to form in the socket (this clot is important for healing).

It’s normal to have oozing and some bleeding on day one – you can change the gauze as instructed until the bleeding eases. Your mouth will be numb for a few hours after the procedure. As the anesthesia wears off, start any prescribed pain medication or an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed.

• Pain management:
  Many patients do well with ibuprofen (Advil) or a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Take your first dose before the numbness completely wears off, so you stay ahead of the pain. You should rest and take it easy. Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for the first day to minimize swelling.
• Diet:
  Stick to liquids and very soft foods at first. Good options for day one include smoothies (drink with a spoon, not a straw), yogurt, applesauce, broths, or protein shakes. Avoid using a straw, as the suction can dislodge the clot and cause a painful dry socket. Also avoid hot liquids, as heat can increase bleeding – lukewarm or cold is better initially.

Days 2–3:

Swelling in your cheeks and jaw typically peaks around the third day after surgery. Don’t be alarmed if you look a bit puffy – this is normal. You might also have some jaw stiffness or difficulty fully opening your mouth for a couple of days.

Keep using ice packs on day 2 as needed, and you can switch to warm moist compresses on day 3 if you have stiffness (e.g., a warm towel on the jaw). Pain is usually most noticeable in this 48-hour window, so continue your pain medications on schedule.

If the surgeon gave you prescription pain meds, use them as directed (especially at night) but taper off to lighter meds as soon as you feel ready.

• Oral care:
  After the first 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) after meals to keep the sites clean. Do not spit forcefully or brush the extraction sites yet, but you can carefully brush your other teeth.
•  Diet:
  You can start eating a bit more substance on days 2 and 3, but still stick to soft foods. Think mashed potatoes, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, soft pasta, pudding, soup (not too hot), cottage cheese, or mashed bananas. Continue to avoid any crunchy, spicy, or hard foods, and no carbonated drinks or alcohol while you heal.

Days 4–7:

By about day 4, you should be feeling much better. Swelling will start to go down, and pain will significantly reduce. Many people can return to work or school around day 3 or 4 if they feel up to it (provided their job isn’t physically strenuous).

Around this time, you can likely stop taking prescription pain medicine and manage any lingering soreness with just ibuprofen or Tylenol. Keep up gentle saltwater rinses a few times a day to help healing.

• Diet: 
  You may gradually introduce more normal foods as you feel comfortable, but continue to avoid nuts, chips, popcorn, or anything that could get stuck in the sockets. Cut food into small pieces and chew away from the extraction sites. Most stitches (if used) will dissolve or loosen by the end of the first week. You might feel some itching in the gums as they heal, which is normal.

After 1–2 Weeks:

Within about a week, the gum tissue will have closed most of the extraction hole. Any swelling or jaw stiffness should be nearly gone. If you had stitches that need removal, you’ll visit the oral surgeon around this time.

By two weeks, you should be back to eating normal foods comfortably.

• Follow-up:
  Attend any scheduled post-op appointments (if scheduled) so your surgeon can ensure everything is healing well. They will check for any issues like infection or dry socket. Dry socket (when the blood clot dislodges) is a possible complication that usually manifests 3-5 days post-op with throbbing pain.

If you follow your aftercare instructions – rest, no straws, no smoking, gentle oral hygiene – the risk of dry socket is low (around 2-5% of cases in routine cases; although has been reported as high as 30% in third molar extractions). If you do suspect something is wrong (severe pain, fever, or persistent bad taste), contact Hermitage Oral Surgery. We can treat any complication quickly.

Pain Management Tips:

Soreness is normal after wisdom teeth removal, but it should be manageable. Take your pain medication as prescribed, and don’t skip doses early on. Applying ice packs in the first 24 hours can greatly reduce swelling and discomfort. Keeping your head elevated (use an extra pillow) when resting can also help reduce swelling. Most patients find the pain is worst in the first 2 days and then subsides. By day 4 or 5, you might only need the occasional ibuprofen dose.

Dietary Recommendations:

A good rule is to consume only soft, easy-to-chew foods for at least 3-5 days post-surgery.
Hydration is also important for healing – drink plenty of water (just avoid straws).

Some nourishing soft foods include:

• Blended soups
• Broths
• Yogurt
• Smoothies
• Mashed avocado
• Pureed vegetables
• Mashed beans
• Ice cream or milkshakes (eat with a spoon)
• Applesauce
• Jell-O
• and meal replacement shakes

As you heal, you can move on to foods like pasta, soft rice, soft cooked veggies, shredded chicken, etc. Listen to your body – if something hurts to chew, stop and try something softer.

Avoid anything that could irritate the site (spicy sauces, acidic drinks like orange juice for a few days) or leave debris (small seeds, grains). By following these guidelines, you’ll support a smooth recovery and be back to normal eating in no time.

Costs of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Nashville, TN

One of the common concerns about wisdom tooth extraction is the cost. The costs of wisdom teeth removal in Nashville, TN can vary depending on several factors, including how many teeth need removal, how impacted those teeth are, the type of anesthesia used, and your insurance coverage.

Generally, wisdom teeth extraction costs in the Nashville area are comparable to national averages. According to dental cost data, a wisdom tooth extraction can range from about $120 up to $800 per tooth​ (humana.com).

The lower end of that range would be for a simple extraction of a fully erupted wisdom tooth. The higher end would be for a complicated impacted tooth or teeth.

For example, if you have a single impacted wisdom tooth removed, you might pay around $300–$500 for the procedure. If you need all four wisdom teeth removed, the total cost could be around $1,000 to $2,000 (sometimes more), which includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fee, and any necessary X-rays or follow-up depending on your insurance. At Hermitage Oral Surgery, we provide you with an estimate up front based on your insurance data.

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Complexity of the Case:

  A fully impacted tooth (buried in bone) is more complex to remove than a tooth that has partially erupted. More complex cases take longer and may require specialized techniques, increasing the cost.

• Number of Teeth:

  Removing a single wisdom tooth will cost less than removing all four at once. However, if you do all four in one session, you may save on anesthesia or office fees compared to doing them separately.

• Type of Anesthesia:

  Local anesthesia (numbing) is included in the base cost. IV anesthesia is an advanced method of anesthesia that carries additional costs. Sedation fees in Nashville can range from about $200 to $600+ extra, depending on the type and duration.

• Who Performs the Surgery:

  At Hermitage Oral Surgery, our surgeons are highly trained for wisdom teeth removal, and our office is equipped for IV sedation and surgical care. A general dentist might charge a bit less if the extraction is straightforward and done in-office under local anesthesia. Always ensure the provider is experienced in wisdom tooth extractions.

• Geographic Location:

  The cost in Hermitage, TN is similar to other parts of Nashville and the U.S. Some urban areas or high-cost cities might have slightly higher fees. Hermitage, being just outside downtown Nashville, tends to have reasonably competitive pricing due to multiple providers in the area.

Insurance Considerations:

If you have dental insurance, it will likely cover a portion of wisdom teeth removal, especially if the extraction is deemed medically necessary (which impacted or painful wisdom teeth usually are). Many dental insurance plans classify wisdom tooth removal as an oral surgery or major dental service. This often means the plan might cover around 50% to 80% of the cost after you’ve met any deductible, up to your annual maximum. Medical insurance usually does not cover the cost of wisdom tooth extractions, however we encourage you to check your plan to see if these benefits are included.

For example, if removal of all four wisdom teeth costs $1,600 total and your insurance covers 80% for oral surgery, you would pay roughly $320 out-of-pocket (assuming your deductible is met). However, coverage varies widely by plan – some basic plans might only cover extractions at 50% or have a waiting period for major services. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.

If you don’t have insurance, don’t worry. Ask our office about payment options. Many offices offer payment plans or work with healthcare financing companies (like CareCredit) so you can pay over time. The investment in removing problematic wisdom teeth can save you money down the road by preventing more serious dental issues. Always discuss the cost upfront, and don’t hesitate to get a second opinion or quote from another oral surgeon if you want to compare prices. We believe in transparency and good communication at Hermitage Oral Surgery.

Finding an Experienced Oral Surgeon in Nashville, TN

Choosing the right professional for your wisdom teeth removal is important for a smooth experience. Here are key considerations for choosing a provider for oral surgery in Hermitage or the greater Nashville area:

Qualifications and Experience:

Look for a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS) or a general dentist who has extensive experience with wisdom tooth extractions. An OMS has specialized surgical training (in addition to dental school) and is well-versed in anesthesia, complex extractions, and managing complications. At Hermitage Oral Surgery, both of our surgeons are board-certified. Don’t shy away from asking your provider about their experience.

Reviews and Recommendations:

Check patient reviews, testimonials, or ask friends/family for their experience. Local community pages or Google reviews can provide insight into others’ satisfaction with the surgeon’s skill and the office’s care. Hermitage Oral Surgery has worked hard to deliver high patient satisfaction and a streamlined experience, which is reflected in our reviews.

Comfort and Communication:

Our surgeons at Hermitage Oral Surgery go over in detail the process and risks of wisdom teeth extraction. You are shown your x-rays and given a clear picture of the surgery you will be having. Our staff will check with your insurance company to verify your benefits and provide you with an estimate prior to surgery.

Anesthesia Options:

Ensure the surgeon offers the type of anesthesia you need. Our surgeons have extensive training in anesthesia to be able to provide you options including local anesthesia (numbing), nitrous oxide (laughing gas), or IV sedation. Safety is our priority and our staff is trained to deal with any emergencies should they be encountered.

Facility and Technology:

Modern oral surgery offices should be clean, well-equipped, and adhere to strict sterilization standards. At Hermitage Oral Surgery, we have invested in state-of-the-art technology like 3D CT scans for imaging wisdom teeth positions. An on-site 3D X-ray (CBCT) can be very useful if you have impacted teeth near nerves or sinuses. While not mandatory, it’s nice to know if the office has advanced imaging and monitoring equipment for safety. Also, check if the office is conveniently located and has ample parking (we do), since you’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery.

Insurance and Financing:

As discussed, check that the oral surgeon accepts your dental insurance, if you have it. If you need a payment plan or financing, see if they provide options. At Hermitage Oral Surgery, we take many insurances and file these claims for you even if you are out-of-network. We also offer payment options such as Care Credit and Proceed Finance.

By considering these factors, you can find an experienced oral surgeon in Hermitage who meets your needs. It’s worth taking the time to choose a provider you trust, as this can greatly reduce your anxiety and ensure you have a positive wisdom teeth removal experience. Remember, the goal is to have your procedure done safely and effectively, with good support during recovery. With this in mind, we hope you will choose us as your preferred oral surgeons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Nashville, TN?

Wisdom teeth removal costs depend on the complexity and number of teeth. In Nashville, TN, you might expect to pay roughly $200 to $600 per wisdom tooth on average. Simple cases (tooth already erupted) are on the lower end, while impacted teeth that require oral surgery and sedation are on the higher end. For all four wisdom teeth, the total cost can range from about $1,000 to $2,500. If you have dental insurance, it will likely cover part of this cost (often 50-80% of the procedure after your deductible).

How long is the recovery after wisdom tooth extraction?

For most people, initial recovery is about 3 to 5 days of taking it easy. You’ll likely experience swelling, jaw stiffness, and mild to moderate pain for the first 2-3 days. By day 4, you should start feeling much better, and by one week, most of the soreness and swelling will be gone. You might still need to be careful with what you eat for up to a week or two (sticking to softer foods). Complete healing of the gum tissue takes a couple of weeks, and the bone will fill in over a few months. Everyone heals at their own pace, but generally you can return to normal activities (work, school) after 2-3 days if you feel up to it – just avoid strenuous exercise for about a week. Your surgeon will give specific guidance based on your case. Following the prescribed aftercare (rest, medication, saltwater rinses, etc.) will ensure your recovery stays on track.

What are the potential complications of wisdom teeth removal?

Wisdom teeth extraction is a very common and safe procedure, but like any surgery, there are some potential complications to be aware of. The most common complication is dry socket, which occurs if the blood clot in the extraction site dislodges too early. When this happens, it exposes the bone that was holding the tooth, which is very sensitive. Dry socket can cause throbbing pain starting a few days after the extraction. It’s manageable by a dentist but best prevented by avoiding smoking, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing in the first week.

Other possible (but less common) complications include: infection (signs would be fever, worsening swelling, or pus – usually prevented by keeping the area clean and sometimes taking prescribed antibiotics), prolonged bleeding (a little bleeding is normal; heavy bleeding beyond the first day is uncommon and you should contact your surgeon if it happens), or injury to nearby structures. For lower wisdom teeth, there’s a small risk of temporary numbness in the lower lip, chin, or tongue if the nerve is irritated during the extraction. This numbness (called paresthesia) is usually temporary and resolves over weeks or months in most cases.

It is very rare for this numbness to be permanent. Upper wisdom teeth are near the sinus cavity, so in rare instances an opening into the sinus can occur, which the surgeon will manage (it usually heals on its own or with a small additional procedure). Rest assured, serious complications are rare. Your oral surgeon will use imaging (like panoramic or CT) to plan the surgery carefully and minimize risks. They will also give you instructions to follow at home. By adhering to those instructions – especially regarding not disturbing the blood clots and keeping your mouth clean – you greatly reduce the chance of complications. If you have any unusual symptoms during recovery, contact us right away for evaluation.

Will I be awake during the wisdom teeth removal, and what kind of anesthesia is used?

Due to the difficulty and invasiveness of the procedure, we strongly recommend IV sedation for extraction of wisdom teeth. IV sedation will make you very relaxed and drowsy; most patients actually sleep through the whole procedure and have little to no memory of it. You won’t see or feel anything, and time will go by quickly.

The oral surgeon administers sedative medication through a vein, and you’ll also be numbed locally after you are asleep. General anesthesia (being completely unconscious with a breathing tube) is less common for routine wisdom teeth removal, but it might be used in special cases (for example, if the surgery is in a hospital or if someone cannot tolerate the procedure otherwise). The vast majority of wisdom tooth extractions in our office is done under IV sedation.

Your surgeon will explain the options. For IV sedation you’ll need someone to drive you home, and you should not eat or drink for about 6-8 hours before the surgery (we will give specific instructions). In some circumstances (due to health or other factors) IV sedation may not be possible, and we will discuss your surgery being performed awake under local anesthesia only. The goal is for you to be comfortable and pain-free during the extraction. Discuss your anxiety level and preferences with your oral surgeon; they will recommend the best anesthesia option for you.

Official Organization Recommendations

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) White Paper (2016)

According to the AAOMS White Paper on the Management of Third Molars, decisions regarding the removal of third molars should be guided by an individualized assessment of clinical and radiographic findings. The document acknowledges that impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can pose risks such as pericoronitis, cyst formation, or caries affecting adjacent teeth. However, it does not endorse routine prophylactic extraction of asymptomatic third molars solely to prevent anterior crowding. Instead, the recommendation is to evaluate each patient’s risk factors—if pathology or a significant risk for future complications is evident, removal may be appropriate. On the other hand, if no clear evidence suggests these teeth will adversely affect oral health, extraction for the sole purpose of avoiding crowding is not supported by current evidence.