Wisdom Tooth Extraction FAQs

The wisdom teeth are usually the last set of molars to erupt. They’re located far back in the mouth. Most people see their wisdom teeth come in during their teenage years or early twenties.

Wisdom tooth extraction is done on a case-by-case basis. Sometimes there’s not enough room for the wisdom teeth to erupt fully so they become impacted or trapped and need to be removed.

Another reason for extraction is when they don’t fully erupt, making them harder to clean which increases the risk of decay, infection, and other oral health issues.

If the wisdom teeth are in a proper position and aren’t causing any problems, they don’t have to be removed. Talk to your dentist if you have symptoms such as swelling, pain, tenderness, or abscess in the area for proper assessment

If your dentist or oral surgeon recommends wisdom tooth removal, they will advise on the timing. Typically, however, it’s best to do it sooner than later to protect the rest of your teeth and gums from potential damage. It also reduces the likelihood of needing orthodontic treatments later on to correct overcrowding and alignment issues.

Most importantly, early extraction can make the procedure easier, more comfortable, and safer.

Wisdom teeth are more difficult to remove because of their location. If they’re trapped or didn’t erupt fully, your oral surgeon or dentist may need to break them down into pieces first.

Your dental team also needs to study the anatomy and roots of the teeth as they may be in a sensitive position. If the roots are irregularly shaped, the surgery can be more difficult due to their proximity to the nerve.

Your oral surgeon or dentist will explain at your consultation what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. This is also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have, including dental anxieties.

A wisdom tooth extraction can be completed in about an hour, more or less, depending on the case. You’re given local freezing and an option of sedation to make you feel more comfortable throughout the procedure.

Your surgeon or dentist may make incisions to access the teeth and use dissolvable stitches to close the wound afterward.

You have options for sedation, but your dentist will talk to you first about your health history and level of anxiety so they can provide you with appropriate recommendations.

Sedation can be administered intravenously or orally. You’ll also receive a local anesthetic to numb your mouth.

After your surgery, there may be little discomfort due to the numbing effects of the local anesthetic. Be sure to have someone drive or take you home if you have chosen sedation options.

Your dentist will provide you with post-surgery instructions on how to properly care for the treatment area. You’ll also be given prescriptions to relieve any pain or discomfort. It’s important to take the full course of your medications, as directed by your dentist.

While letting the site heal, it’s best to stick to soft food and avoid anything spicy or sticky.

The recovery period varies per patient. It may take up to 7 to 10 days of taking medications to experience full symptom relief. You should plan to rest for the first 24 hours after surgery.

Physical activities such as lifting, cardio, general exercise, bending down need to be avoided for at least 5 days to avoid swelling or complications in the area. If you’re planning to travel, talk to your dentist to confirm when it’s safe to go.

 I think you should be more specific. I believe people can resume school or work before 5 days, but maybe you mean no physical exertion??

One common concern is dry socket, which happens when the bone in the treatment area becomes exposed. To keep the blood clot in the extraction site, avoid smoking and sucking as in using a straw. 

If you experience severe pain in your ears or neck, or taste and smell anything foul in your mouth, contact your dentist for a follow-up.

 It happens, but is it common or rare? It’s also preventable.

First, schedule an evaluation with your dentist. Our general dentists here at Image Dental Care may be able to perform the wisdom tooth extraction for you. More difficult extractions may sometimes be referred to an oral surgeon.