What is it?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth. They usually come through between the ages of 17 and 25. When there is not enough room in the jaw, they may remain fully or partly inside the bone and gum; these are called impacted or partially impacted wisdom teeth.
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. Wisdom teeth that have come through properly, can be cleaned and cause no problems can stay in the mouth.
Who may it suit?
Wisdom tooth removal may be considered in these situations:
- Recurring gum inflammation around a partially impacted wisdom tooth (pericoronitis)
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth in front of it, in an area that cannot be cleaned
- Pressure from the wisdom tooth on the root of the neighbouring tooth
- A cyst forming around an impacted tooth
- As part of an orthodontic or prosthetic treatment plan
The decision is made by assessing the position of the tooth and its closeness to the nerve with examination, X-ray and, when needed, a three-dimensional CT scan.
How does the process work?
- Examination and imaging. The position of the tooth, its root shape and, in the lower jaw, its closeness to the nerve canal are assessed.
- Information. How the procedure will be done and the possible risks are explained.
- Local anaesthesia. The area is numbed.
- Removal. Teeth that have come through can be extracted directly. For impacted teeth the gum is opened and, if necessary, the tooth is removed in sections.
- Stitches and advice. If needed, the area is stitched and written aftercare advice is given.
- Review. A check-up is carried out after about a week and stitches are removed if needed.
Frequently asked questions
How much swelling will there be?
Especially after removal of impacted wisdom teeth, swelling and limited mouth opening may occur. Swelling usually increases over the first two or three days and then subsides.
What are the risks of wisdom tooth removal?
The most common are pain, swelling and inflammation of the socket (dry socket). With lower wisdom teeth whose roots are very close to the nerve, there may be a temporary or, rarely, permanent change in sensation in the lip and chin. This risk is assessed beforehand with imaging.
What should I watch out for after removal?
For the first 24 hours it is advisable not to rinse your mouth vigorously, smoke, use a straw or eat hot food. Keep brushing your other teeth without touching the extraction site.
Should a wisdom tooth be removed if it does not hurt?
No pain does not mean the tooth has no problems; some problems are only visible on an X-ray. Wisdom teeth that cause no problems and can be cleaned may be monitored.
Whether it is suitable for you is determined by an examination.