Dr. Sonny Naderi is a trusted oral surgery expert serving the Richmond, TX community with years of specialized experience in wisdom teeth extraction. At Best Dental, Dr. Naderi combines advanced surgical techniques with a patient-centered approach, ensuring each procedure is performed with precision and care. His expertise in managing complex cases, including impacted wisdom teeth, has made him a preferred choice for Richmond residents seeking safe and effective oral surgery. Dr. Naderi takes the time to thoroughly explain each step of the process, address patient concerns, and create personalized treatment plans that prioritize comfort and optimal outcomes.
Dr. Sonny Naderi · Oral Surgery Specialist · Richmond, TX
Wisdom Teeth Removal
in Richmond, TX
With over 25,000 wisdom teeth removed throughout his career, Dr. Naderi brings unmatched surgical expertise to every extraction — from simple erupted teeth to deeply impacted cases. Multiple sedation options ensure comfortable, anxiety-free treatment from start to finish.
25,000+
Wisdom Teeth Removed
4 Types
Sedation Options
Same-Day
Emergency Care
5–7 Days
Typical Recovery
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth — also called third molars — are the last teeth to develop, typically erupting between ages 17–25. Most people have four wisdom teeth (one in each corner of the mouth), though some have fewer or none at all. These teeth served an important purpose for our ancestors who needed extra chewing power for tough, uncooked foods. However, modern diets and smaller jaw sizes mean most people don't have adequate room for wisdom teeth to erupt properly.
When wisdom teeth don't have enough space to emerge normally, they become "impacted" — stuck beneath the gum line or growing at wrong angles. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, cysts, crowding, and other serious complications. This is why dentists frequently recommend removal during late teens or early twenties, before problems develop and roots fully form.
At Best Dental in Richmond, TX, Dr. Sonny Naderi is a fellowship-trained oral surgeon who has removed over 25,000 wisdom teeth throughout his career. His extensive experience means he can handle even the most complex impactions efficiently and safely — with a gentle technique and comprehensive aftercare that ensures optimal outcomes and minimal discomfort.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Early removal almost always means simpler surgery, faster recovery, and fewer complications. Here are the signs that it's time to act.
Pain in the back of your mouth — aching, throbbing, or sharp pain near wisdom teeth
Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums — inflammation around partially erupted wisdom teeth
Jaw pain or stiffness — difficulty opening your mouth or jaw discomfort
Repeated infections (pericoronitis) — infections in gum tissue covering wisdom teeth
Bad breath or unpleasant taste — from bacteria trapped around partially erupted teeth
Crowding of other teeth — wisdom teeth pushing other teeth out of alignment
Cysts or tumors — fluid-filled sacs that can silently damage surrounding bone
X-ray shows impaction — problematic position identified even before symptoms appear
Preventive vs. Emergency Removal
Ideal: Ages 17–25
Preventive Removal
Removing wisdom teeth before problems develop is always preferred. Younger patients heal faster, have less developed roots (easier extraction), and experience fewer complications. Most surgeons recommend removal in late teens or early twenties even if currently symptom-free.
Any Age
Emergency Removal
Waiting until wisdom teeth cause severe pain, infection, or damage often means more complex surgery, longer recovery, and higher complication risk. Emergency removal is necessary but significantly less straightforward than planned preventive extraction.
🔬 How We Evaluate Your Wisdom Teeth
Dr. Naderi evaluates wisdom teeth with clinical examination and X-rays — or 3D cone beam CT scans for complex cases. These tools precisely reveal tooth position, root development, nerve proximity, and sinus location, so you get only the treatment you actually need.
Impaction depth
Root development
Nerve proximity
Sinus location
Adjacent tooth health
Eruption angle
Types of Wisdom Tooth Impaction
Dr. Naderi's 25,000+ extractions include every impaction type — from soft tissue cases requiring minor surgery to complete bony impactions requiring complex surgical removal.
Least Complex
Soft Tissue Impaction
Partially erupted through gum- Crown has emerged but gum still covers part
- Tooth cannot fully erupt due to limited space
- Prone to infection (pericoronitis)
- Food easily trapped under gum flap
- Usually requires only minor surgery
- Quick recovery typical
Moderate
Partial Bony Impaction
Part of tooth in jawbone- Some tooth visible, some encased in bone
- Partially blocked by surrounding bone tissue
- Requires bone removal for extraction
- May need tooth sectioning
- Longer procedure than soft tissue type
- Moderate recovery period
Most Complex
Complete Bony Impaction
Fully embedded in jawbone- Tooth completely encased in jawbone
- Never erupted through the gum
- Requires significant bone removal
- Tooth sectioned into pieces for removal
- Horizontal or angled growth common
- Longer healing time required
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process
Five clear steps from consultation to recovery — Dr. Naderi walks you through everything before you commit to a single step.
Consultation & X-Rays
Dr. Naderi examines your wisdom teeth clinically and takes X-rays (or 3D scans for complex cases) to assess position, root development, and proximity to nerves and sinuses. He'll explain why removal is recommended, what to expect during surgery, and answer all your questions. You'll discuss sedation options and receive detailed pre-operative instructions.
Anesthesia & Sedation
On surgery day, Dr. Naderi administers your chosen sedation followed by local anesthesia to numb all extraction sites. You'll be completely comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire procedure. Multiple sedation options are available based on your anxiety level and the number of teeth being removed.
Tooth Extraction
For erupted wisdom teeth, Dr. Naderi uses specialized instruments to gently loosen and remove the tooth. For impacted teeth, he makes a small incision in the gum, removes any blocking bone, and may section the tooth into pieces for easier removal. His precise surgical technique minimizes tissue trauma and promotes optimal, faster healing.
Socket Care & Stitches
After extraction, Dr. Naderi thoroughly cleans the socket, removes any debris or infected tissue, and places dissolving stitches if needed. He may place gauze for bleeding control. The extraction site is left to heal naturally — bone and gum tissue will fully regenerate over the following months.
Recovery & Instructions
You'll rest in our recovery area until sufficiently alert. Dr. Naderi provides detailed post-operative instructions, prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics if needed, and schedules a follow-up visit. Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients heal smoothly when following these instructions carefully. They're the single most important factor in a complication-free recovery.
Manage Swelling
Ice packs 20 min on, 20 min off for 48 hours. Swelling peaks at 48–72 hrs then steadily decreases.
Control Bleeding
Bite firmly on gauze for 30–45 min. Light oozing for 24 hours is normal. Replace gauze as needed.
Protect Blood Clots
No straws, spitting, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for 24 hours — these dislodge clots and cause dry socket.
Soft Diet 3–5 Days
Yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, cooled soup, eggs, pasta. Avoid hot, hard, or spicy foods.
Take All Medications
Pain relievers, antibiotics if prescribed, and anti-inflammatories exactly as directed. Don't skip doses.
Rest 3–5 Days
Sleep with head elevated. Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, or smoking for at least one full week.
Typical Healing Timeline
Day 1–2
Peak discomfortMost swelling and soreness. Rest, ice packs, pain medication as needed.
Day 3–5
ImprovingSwelling peaks then decreases. Pain diminishes significantly.
Day 7
Much betterSwelling mostly resolved. Stitches dissolve or are removed at follow-up.
Week 2–3
Soft tissue healedComplete soft tissue healing. Resume full normal diet and activities.
Month 3–6
Bone fills inExtraction sites fill completely with new bone. Healing complete.
⚠️ Dry Socket Prevention & Warning Signs — Dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot dislodges, exposing bone and nerves. It causes severe throbbing pain starting 3–4 days after surgery. Prevention: no smoking (most critical), avoid straws, don't spit forcefully, follow all aftercare instructions. If severe pain starts after day 3, or if you experience fever over 101°F, excessive worsening swelling, difficulty breathing, or foul discharge — call Best Dental immediately.
Sedation Options for Complete Comfort
Don't let anxiety prevent you from getting necessary care. Best Dental offers four levels of sedation — tailored to your comfort level and the complexity of your procedure.
Local Only
Local Anesthesia
Numbing medication eliminates all pain during extraction. You remain fully awake. Best for single, simple erupted extractions with minimal anxiety. You can drive yourself home.
Mild Sedation
Nitrous Oxide
Inhaled sedation (laughing gas) creates relaxation while you stay conscious. Effects wear off quickly. Great for mild to moderate anxiety. After 15–30 minutes, you can drive home.
Moderate Sedation
Oral Sedation
Prescription medication taken before your appointment produces deep relaxation with reduced memory of the procedure. Ideal for moderate anxiety or multiple extractions. Driver required.
Deep Sedation
IV Sedation
Deepest conscious sedation delivered intravenously. You'll be completely relaxed with little to no memory of the procedure. Perfect for severe anxiety, complex impactions, or all four teeth at once. Driver required.
Dr. Naderi has safely administered sedation for 100+ IV and oral sedation cases using advanced monitoring equipment throughout every procedure. For oral or IV sedation, you'll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours. Learn more about sedation dentistry at Best Dental.
Cost & Insurance
Costs vary by impaction complexity and number of teeth. Here are typical ranges — Dr. Naderi provides exact pricing at your consultation with no surprises.
Simple erupted tooth
$150–$300 / tooth
Soft tissue impaction
$200–$400 / tooth
Partial bony impaction
$300–$500 / tooth
Complete bony impaction
$400–$600 / tooth
All four wisdom teeth (average total)
$1,000–$3,000
Sedation (nitrous oxide)
+ $100–$200
Oral or IV sedation
+ $300–$600
These costs cover examination, X-rays, anesthesia, surgical extraction, and follow-up if needed. For a comprehensive breakdown, read our guide on wisdom teeth removal costs in Richmond, TX.
What Insurance Typically Covers
Medically necessary removal: covered at 50–80% by most plans when impacted or causing damage
Preventive removal (no symptoms): may receive partial coverage or require pre-authorization
Annual maximums apply: most plans limit coverage to $1,000–$2,000 per year
Age limits: some plans cover removal for younger patients at a higher benefit percentage
Our billing team verifies your benefits before your procedure and maximizes every available dollar of coverage
CareCredit financing and in-house payment plans available · Dental Discount Plan for uninsured patients · Flexible arrangements for any budget
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed? ▾
The ideal age is late teens to early twenties (17–25 years). At this age, wisdom tooth roots aren't fully developed, bone is less dense, and healing is faster. However, wisdom teeth can be safely removed at any age if they're causing problems. Dr. Naderi has successfully removed wisdom teeth from patients in their teens through their 70s.
Does wisdom teeth removal hurt? ▾
The procedure itself is painless due to anesthesia and optional sedation. Afterward, you'll experience soreness similar to having a tooth extracted — manageable with pain medication. Most patients report less discomfort than anticipated. Pain peaks in the first 2–3 days then diminishes rapidly. By day 5–7, most people feel significantly better.
Should I have all four wisdom teeth removed at once? ▾
Removing all four wisdom teeth in one appointment is common and often recommended. Advantages include a single recovery period, one sedation session, less total time off work or school, and lower overall cost. However, some patients prefer removing upper or lower teeth separately. Dr. Naderi will discuss the best approach for your specific situation.
Can I go to work or school the next day? ▾
Most patients need 2–3 days off for recovery. If you have a desk job with minimal talking, you might return after 1–2 days. For physically demanding jobs or if all four teeth were removed, plan for 3–5 days off. Students often schedule removal during school breaks. Listen to your body — if you're still experiencing significant swelling or pain, take additional time to rest.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal? ▾
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days: yogurt, smoothies (no straws!), applesauce, mashed potatoes, cooled soup, scrambled eggs, pasta, protein shakes, pudding, and ice cream. Avoid hot foods, hard or crunchy foods, spicy foods, acidic foods, and alcohol. Gradually reintroduce normal foods as healing progresses over the following 1–2 weeks.
Will removing wisdom teeth change my face shape? ▾
No — wisdom teeth removal does not change facial structure or cause cheeks to sink in. This is a common myth. Your face shape is determined by your bone structure, muscles, and fat distribution, not by wisdom teeth. Any temporary facial swelling from surgery fully resolves within 1–2 weeks, returning your face to its completely normal appearance.
Do I need someone to drive me home? ▾
If you receive only local anesthesia, you can drive yourself. For nitrous oxide, wait 15–30 minutes after the mask is removed, then you may drive. For oral or IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for several hours. You cannot operate vehicles or machinery for 24 hours after receiving sedation.
What is dry socket and how do I prevent it? ▾
Dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot dislodges from the extraction site, exposing bone and nerves to air, food, and fluids. It causes severe throbbing pain starting 3–4 days after surgery. Prevention: don't smoke (most important factor), avoid straws, don't spit forcefully, and follow all aftercare instructions carefully. If dry socket occurs, call Best Dental immediately — Dr. Naderi can provide medicated dressing for instant relief.
Key Takeaways About Wisdom Teeth Removal at Best Dental
Dr. Naderi has removed 25,000+ wisdom teeth — unmatched surgical expertise in Richmond, TX
Most people have wisdom teeth removed between ages 17–25 for optimal healing outcomes
Three impaction types: soft tissue, partial bony, and complete bony — each requiring a different approach
Four sedation levels available from local anesthesia to full IV sedation
Recovery typically 5–7 days with manageable, predictable discomfort
Costs range from $150–$600 per tooth depending on impaction complexity
Insurance typically covers 50–80% when removal is medically necessary
No smoking, straws, or vigorous spitting are the most critical dry socket prevention rules
Same-day emergency appointments available for severe wisdom tooth pain
Flexible financing makes treatment accessible for every budget
Expert Wisdom Teeth Removal You Can Trust
Don't suffer with wisdom tooth pain or risk complications from impacted teeth. Dr. Naderi's 25,000+ extractions mean you're in the most experienced hands in Richmond, TX — whether you need preventive removal or emergency care for severe pain.
