Before removing a wisdom tooth a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. A general anesthetic may be used, especially if several or all of your wisdom teeth will be removed at the same time. A general anesthetic prevents pain in the whole body and will make you groggy or cause you to sleep through the procedure. It is recommend that you don't eat or drink after midnight on the night before surgery, so you are prepared for the anesthetic.

After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches. Some stitches dissolve over time and some have to be removed after a few days. A folded cotton gauze pad placed over the wound will help stop the bleeding.