When your dentist says, “It’s time to get your wisdom teeth removed,” your first thought is usually about the pain. But the second question is almost always the same,how long does wisdom teeth removal take?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The time it takes depends on several factors, from how many teeth you’re having removed to whether they’re impacted. This guide walks you through the average procedure time, what influences it, and how long recovery typically lasts.
What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal and Why Does It Matter?
The final set of teeth to erupt are the third molars, often known as wisdom teeth.They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, which can cause:
- Overcrowding and misalignment
- Pain or swelling in the gums
- Tooth decay and gum disease
- Cysts or infection if impacted
Because of these issues, dentists often recommend extraction. Knowing the timeframe for wisdom tooth removal helps you prepare mentally and logistically,whether that means taking time off work, arranging a ride home, or planning your meals for recovery.
Average Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal
On average, wisdom teeth removal takes between 20 minutes and 1 hour. Simple cases may finish faster, while complex cases can take longer.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Type of Extraction | Time Per Tooth |
| Simple extraction (fully erupted) | 10–20 minutes |
| Surgical extraction (partially or fully impacted) | 30–45 minutes |
| All four wisdom teeth at once | 45–90 minutes total |
As you can see, the time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. Let’s dive deeper into the factors that influence it.
Factors That Influence How Long Wisdom Teeth Removal Takes
Type of Extraction
- Simple extraction: If your wisdom tooth has erupted fully and sits upright, removal is quick and straightforward.
- Surgical extraction: Impacted teeth (stuck in the jawbone or gums) require cutting through gum tissue or even bone, which takes more time.
Number of Teeth Being Removed
Removing one wisdom tooth can take 15–30 minutes. Removing all four at once may stretch the procedure to over an hour.
Position and Angle of the Tooth
If a tooth grows sideways or at an awkward angle, your dentist may need to section it into smaller pieces before extraction. This adds more minutes to the clock.
Patient’s Age and Oral Health
Younger patients typically have softer bone and less root development, which speeds up removal. In older patients, teeth are often harder to extract due to denser bone and stronger roots.
Experience of the Oral Surgeon
An experienced oral surgeon can often perform the extraction more efficiently than a general dentist. Choosing a skilled professional can make the difference between a 20-minute and a 45-minute procedure.
Step-by-Step Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal and Timing
Understanding the timeline of the procedure can ease anxiety. Here’s what usually happens:
Preparation and Anesthesia (10–20 minutes)
- Review of medical history
- Numbing with local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia
- Setting up surgical instruments
Extraction Procedure (20–45 minutes per tooth)
- Loosening and removing erupted teeth
- For impacted teeth, making a small incision in the gum and possibly removing bone
- Sectioning the tooth if necessary
Stitches and Immediate Care (5–10 minutes)
- Sutures may be placed to close the gum tissue
- Gauze applied to control bleeding
- Patient monitored for a short period before discharge
Recovery Time After Wisdom Teeth Removal
The surgery itself is just part of the process. Recovery also takes time.
- First 24–48 hours: Swelling and discomfort are most noticeable.
- 1 week: Stitches (if non-dissolvable) may need removal.
- 1–2 weeks: Most patients feel back to normal.
- Complete healing: Bone and gum tissue may take 6–8 weeks to fully heal.
Complications like dry socket or infection can extend recovery, though these are less common with proper aftercare.
Tips to Make Wisdom Teeth Removal Faster and Easier
Before Surgery
- Avoid eating or drinking if sedation will be used.
- Arrange a ride home since anesthesia can make you drowsy.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
After Surgery
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Avoid hard foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
- Rest and avoid heavy physical activity for at least 48 hours.
Things to Avoid
- Smoking or vaping, which can delay healing.
- Drinking alcohol during recovery.
- Using straws, as the suction can dislodge blood clots.
Case Studies: Real-Life Examples
1: 19-Year-Old Student
- Procedure: All four wisdom teeth removed
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Recovery: Back to normal within 7 days
Case 2: 35-Year-Old Office Worker
- Procedure: Two impacted wisdom teeth
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Recovery: Took 10 days due to bone density and complexity
These examples highlight how factors like age and impaction affect both surgery and recovery times.
FAQs About How Long Wisdom Teeth Removal Takes
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Yes. Dentists often recommend removing all four in one session to avoid multiple surgeries.
Does sedation add time to the procedure?
It can. Preparing and monitoring the patient under IV sedation or general anesthesia usually adds 15–30 minutes.
How long should you take off work or school?
Plan for 2–3 days off, though some people may need a week depending on their healing speed.
What’s the fastest recovery method?
Follow aftercare instructions carefully—rest, avoid smoking, eat soft foods, and stay hydrated.
Conclusion
So, how long does wisdom teeth removal take? On average, expect anywhere from 20 minutes for a simple extraction to 90 minutes if all four are removed surgically. Recovery takes about a week for most people, though complete healing can last longer.
The good news is wisdom teeth removal is a common and safe procedure. With proper preparation and aftercare, you’ll be back to your routine sooner than you think.