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Say Goodbye to Impacted and Problematic Teeth: What Is a Wisdom Tooth?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and are located at the very back of the mouth. In many cases, due to limited jaw space, these teeth cannot erupt properly and remain partially or fully impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, tooth decay, and even jaw misalignment.
For this reason, wisdom tooth extraction often becomes an inevitable step in maintaining oral health.
When Should a Wisdom Tooth Be Extracted?
Fully impacted: The tooth is completely trapped within the gum or bone.
Partially impacted: Part of the tooth has erupted while the rest remains covered by gum tissue, increasing infection risk.
Decayed or infected: Wisdom teeth are hard to clean and easily decay.
Causing pressure on adjacent teeth: Can lead to crowding or misalignment.
Cyst formation: Cysts or bone loss may develop around impacted teeth.
Before orthodontic treatment: To prevent shifting of other teeth.
How Is a Wisdom Tooth Extracted?
The procedure depends on the tooth’s position:
Simple Extraction:
If the tooth is fully erupted and accessible, it can be removed quickly under local anesthesia.
Surgical Extraction:
If the tooth is embedded in the gum or bone, a small incision is made in the gum. Sometimes a small amount of bone is removed, and the tooth is sectioned for easier extraction. Stitches are then placed, and healing begins within a few days.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Simple extractions take about 10–15 minutes, while surgical extractions may take 30–45 minutes, depending on the tooth’s position and the individual’s anatomy.
Post-Extraction Care
Avoid hot foods and drinks for 24 hours.
Do not rinse or spit for the first day.
Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 2 days.
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Take antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed.
Avoid hard, grainy, or spicy foods.
Stitches are usually removed after 7–10 days.
Possible Complications
Swelling and pain: Common for the first 2–3 days.
Dry socket (alveolitis): Occurs when the blood clot dislodges, causing infection and pain.
Jaw stiffness or muscle spasm: May occur, especially with lower wisdom teeth.
Numbness: Temporary numbness can occur if nerves are close to the tooth root.
These effects are typically temporary and manageable with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
No. It is performed under local anesthesia, so no pain is felt during the procedure. Mild pain afterward can be managed with medication.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be extracted?
No. If they erupt properly, can be cleaned, and don’t harm surrounding tissues, extraction is unnecessary.
Are lower wisdom teeth harder to remove?
Yes. The lower jawbone is denser, making surgical extraction slightly longer and more delicate.
Can wisdom teeth cause misalignment?
Yes. Impacted or angled wisdom teeth can push other teeth forward, causing crowding, especially in the front.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing occurs within 3 days, and complete recovery takes about 7–10 days. Your dentist will determine if and when stitches need to be removed.