Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging between ages 17-25. When they don't have enough room to grow properly, they become impacted and often require surgical removal to prevent complications.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Impaction

Wisdom teeth don't have enough space to emerge normally, growing at angles or remaining trapped in the jawbone or gums.

Common Problems

• Pain and infection: Partially erupted teeth trap food and bacteria
• Pericoronitis: Infection of tissue around partially emerged tooth
• Damage to adjacent teeth: Pressure from impacted wisdom teeth
• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can damage jawbone
• Crowding: Pushing other teeth out of position
• Decay: Difficult-to-clean wisdom teeth develop cavities
• Gum disease: Partial eruption makes cleaning impossible

Preventive Removal

Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth before problems develop, especially if:

• X-rays show impaction
• Insufficient space in the jaw
• Teeth are growing at an angle
• You're younger (recovery is easier)

Types of Impaction

• Soft tissue impaction: Tooth has penetrated bone but not gum
• Partial bony impaction: Tooth has partially emerged through bone
• Complete bony impaction: Tooth is completely enclosed in jawbone
• Horizontal impaction: Tooth growing sideways
• Vertical impaction: Tooth growing in normal direction but lacks space

The Removal Procedure

Anesthesia Options

Local anesthesia: Numbs the area, you're awake

IV sedation: Suppresses consciousness, limited memory of procedure

General anesthesia: Completely unconscious, used for complex cases or multiple extractions

The Surgery

1. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose tooth and bone
2. Bone blocking access to the tooth root is removed
3. The tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal
4. The tooth is removed
5. The site is cleaned of debris
6. The wound is stitched closed (usually dissolvable stitches)
7. Gauze is placed to control bleeding and promote clotting

Duration: 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on complexity

Recovery Timeline

First 24 Hours

• Bleeding is normal; bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes
• Swelling begins; apply ice packs
• Rest and avoid physical activity
• Take prescribed pain medication
• Stick to soft, cool foods
• Don't rinse, spit, or use straws

Days 2-3

• Swelling peaks (may include bruising)
• Begin gentle salt water rinses (after 24 hours)
• Continue soft diet
• Apply warm compresses to reduce swelling
• Take full course of antibiotics if prescribed

Days 4-7

• Swelling and discomfort decrease significantly
• Gradually reintroduce normal foods
• Return to normal activities
• Stitches dissolve or are removed

Week 2-3

• Most people fully recovered
• Sockets continue healing internally for several months
• Complete bone healing takes 3-6 months

Detailed Aftercare Instructions

What to Eat

First 24 hours:

• Smoothies (no straws)
• Yogurt, pudding, applesauce
• Ice cream (avoid if increases sensitivity)
• Mashed potatoes
• Soup (lukewarm, not hot)

Days 2-7:

• Scrambled eggs
• Pasta (well-cooked)
• Soft bread
• Bananas and soft fruits
• Ground meat

What to Avoid

• Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods
• Spicy foods (can irritate)
• Alcoholic beverages (72 hours minimum)
• Smoking (increases dry socket risk dramatically)
• Straws (sucking motion dislodges clots)
• Hot liquids (can cause bleeding)
• Seeds and small grains (can lodge in sockets)

Oral Hygiene

• Don't brush surgical sites for 24 hours
• After 24 hours, brush other teeth gently
• Rinse gently with warm salt water 4-6 times daily (after 24 hours)
• Avoid commercial mouthwashes initially (may irritate)
• Use prescribed mouth rinse if provided

Potential Complications

Dry Socket

Most common complication (2-5% of cases), occurring when blood clot dislodges. Symptoms include severe pain 3-4 days post-surgery and bad breath. Requires dental visit for medicated dressing.

Infection

Signs include fever, pus, worsening pain, and swelling. Requires antibiotics.

Nerve Damage

Rare (less than 1%) but possible, causing temporary or permanent numbness in tongue, lips, or chin. Usually resolves within weeks to months.

Sinus Communication

Upper wisdom teeth roots sometimes extend into sinus cavity. Removal may create opening requiring special care or closure.

Cost in the UK

• NHS: Band 2 (£73.50) for straightforward cases, Band 3 (£319.10) for surgical removal
• Private: £100-£370 per tooth depending on complexity
• Sedation: Additional £100-£300 if chosen
• Hospital referral: Free on NHS if referred; complex cases may require oral surgeon

When to Call Your Dentist

• Severe pain not controlled by medication
• Heavy bleeding after several hours
• Fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Excessive swelling worsening after 3 days
• Numbness persisting beyond expected timeframe
• Pus or foul taste

Planning for Recovery

• Schedule procedure when you can rest for 2-3 days
• Arrange transportation if having sedation
• Stock soft foods and medications beforehand
• Plan time off work/school (2-3 days minimum)
• Have someone stay with you first 24 hours if sedated
• Avoid important events for at least a week

While wisdom teeth removal may seem daunting, millions undergo this procedure successfully each year. Following your dentist's instructions carefully ensures smooth recovery and prevents complications.