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Wisdom Teeth Removal in Grand Rapids, MI

Safe, Expert Surgical Care for Teenagers & Adults in West Michigan

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop—typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. For many people, there simply isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate them, leading to pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth. At Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (Third Coast OMS), our surgeons provide expert wisdom tooth evaluations and safe, precise surgical extractions to protect your long-term oral health.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they don’t fully erupt or grow in at the right angle. Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:

  • Pain and swelling
  • Infections or gum disease
  • Tooth crowding or shifting
  • Cysts or damage to nearby teeth and bone

Proactive removal—often during the teen years—can help you avoid more complex problems later in life.

What to Expect: The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

1

Consultation & Digital Imaging

Your first visit includes a clinical exam and advanced 3D imaging to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the safest approach for removal.

2

Anesthesia Options for Comfort

Most wisdom teeth procedures are performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia for a relaxed, pain-free experience. Our surgeons are fully credentialed to provide in-office anesthesia and monitor you throughout the procedure.

3

Surgical Extraction

Wisdom teeth are gently removed through a small incision, often in under an hour. Stitches may be placed to support healing.

4

Recovery & Aftercare

Most patients recover fully within a few days. We provide detailed home care instructions and are always available to address questions or concerns during healing.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

The ideal time for removal is typically between ages 16 and 25, when the roots are not fully developed and the bone is more flexible. Early evaluation allows us to time your procedure for the safest and least complicated outcome.

Our team works closely with general dentists and orthodontists throughout West Michigan to ensure patients are referred at the right time and receive the best possible surgical care.

Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Consultation Today

Whether you're a parent of a teen or a young adult experiencing wisdom tooth pain, the trusted team at Third Coast OMS is here to help. Schedule your consultation today and get expert answers from specialists who care.

Third Coast OMS Wisdom Teeth Removal Age

Wisdom Teeth Removal: Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager or young adult?

As wisdom teeth develop, the roots become longer and the jaw bone more dense. When it is necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth in your thirties, forties or beyond, the post-operative course can be prolonged and there is a higher complication rate. Treating these complications is often more difficult and less predictable than with a younger patient. Healing may be slower and the chance of infection can be increased. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not removed in your teenage years or early in your twenties and they are completely impacted in bone, it may be advisable to wait until a localized problem (such as cyst formation or localized gum disease and bone loss) develops. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.

What does wisdom tooth removal cost and is it covered by insurance?

The fee for your treatment is determined by a number of factors. These may include the difficulty involved in removing your teeth and which type of anesthesia is best for you. During your consultation appointment, the surgeon will need to review your x-rays, complete an examination and determine the best option for anesthesia, before an accurate estimate can be provided. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. The oral surgeon’s office staff will help you obtain maximum insurance coverage for your treatment.

What happens on the day wisdom teeth are removed?

On the day of treatment, please do not eat or drink anything prior to your surgery. Having anything in your stomach can increase the risk for serious anesthetic complications. Also, be sure to have an adult with you at the time of removal. Make plans to have a parent or responsible adult stay with you for the rest of the day, following wisdom tooth removal.

What if I have questions before surgery?

At the time of your consultation, your specific situation will be discussed in greater detail. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have. If new questions arise after your consultation, please call our office at Byron Center Office Phone Number 616-217-3632 to speak to one of our patient care coordinators.

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Anesthesia Information

Comfort‑First Options for Anesthesia

At Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we tailor anesthesia to each patient's procedure and comfort needs—ranging from simple local numbing and “laughing gas” to IV “twilight” sedation, fully monitored in-office general anesthesia, or hospital-level services in our accredited suite. Every option is overseen by experienced professionals and supported by modern monitoring to ensure your safety and ease throughout treatment.

Learn more about our anesthesia services

Anesthesia Options

Hear What Our Patients Have to Say

I went in for a consult with Dr. Lytle. He was incredibly kind, understanding, and knowledgeable. He thoroughly answered all of my questions without making me feel rushed or pressured. I felt an instant comfort and trust, which is very important if I’ll be needing surgery in the future. The facility was also beautiful with friendly and very helpful staff. It was a really nice touch how they have a bunch of treats/snacks and drinks as you wait, and when you leave, there are a variety of free gifts for you if you’d like (with “Third Coast” labeling). It was all very thoughtful and appreciated. Thank you!

Melisa M.
Third Coast OMS Testimonials
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Trusted Wisdom Teeth Experts in West Michigan

At Third Coast OMS, your care is in the hands of highly trained, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons: Dr. Chip Niquette and Dr. AJ Lytle. With years of specialized surgical training, hospital-based anesthesia experience, and thousands of surgeries performed, we deliver care that’s safe, smooth, and tailored to each of our individual patients.

We welcome patients from throughout Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Grand Haven, and the surrounding Lakeshore communities.

Schedule an Appointment Today