Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars or “eights,” are among the most discussed and frequently problematic teeth in the oral cavity. They are the last to emerge, typically between the ages of 17 and 25, though in some cases they may appear later or never develop at all. The question of when it’s time to remove a wisdom tooth and what risks the procedure involves concerns many patients. In today’s article, we’ll explore when it’s recommended to proceed with wisdom tooth extraction, how the process is carried out, and what you should know about potential complications.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
From an evolutionary perspective, wisdom teeth once helped our ancestors chew tougher, raw foods. Over time, with changes in diet, lifestyle, and jaw development, many people no longer have enough room in their mouths for these additional teeth. This can lead to several issues:
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth, which remain covered by gum tissue and trap food and bacteria.
Misaligned wisdom teeth that press against neighboring teeth, potentially causing crowding or shifting of the dental arch.
Inflammatory processes and infections around the wisdom tooth (pericoronitis).
Cyst formation or benign growths around impacted wisdom teeth.
Cavities on adjacent teeth due to difficulty cleaning the area properly.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. In some cases, these teeth erupt correctly and cause no discomfort or orthodontic complications. However, there are certain situations in which dentists recommend extraction:
Insufficient space in the mouth — when the tooth has no room to erupt and remains under the gum or presses against neighboring teeth.
Frequent inflammation and pain — especially in cases of partially erupted teeth.
Cavity formation — when wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and prone to decay.
Orthodontic reasons — for patients with braces or orthodontic appliances, as wisdom teeth may interfere with treatment results.
Cyst formation — sometimes impacted wisdom teeth develop cysts that can damage surrounding bone and teeth.
Painful eruption — when swelling, pain, or difficulty opening the mouth occur.
How Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Work?
The extraction of a wisdom tooth can be either simple or surgical, depending on the position and condition of the tooth.
Simple extraction — performed on fully erupted, visible teeth. The dentist uses forceps and dental elevators to remove the tooth.
Surgical extraction — necessary for impacted or partially erupted teeth. This procedure involves making an incision in the gum, removing bone tissue if needed, and extracting the tooth either whole or in sections.
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and in more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
What Are the Risks of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
While most extractions go smoothly without complications, there are some potential risks you should be aware of:
Postoperative pain and swelling — common side effects that typically subside within a few days.
Bleeding — especially in the first hours after the procedure.
Infection — possible if hygiene is insufficient or the procedure was complicated.
Dry socket — a painful condition where the blood clot at the extraction site is lost or fails to form.
Injury to adjacent teeth or nerves — rare, but possible in cases where teeth are positioned close to the lower jaw nerve.
Limited mouth opening (trismus) — temporary difficulty opening the mouth, particularly after surgical extractions.
How to Prepare for and Recover After the Procedure
Before wisdom tooth extraction, it’s important to have a dental X-ray (orthopantomography or a 3D scan) to assess the position of the tooth and nearby anatomical structures.
After extraction, following these recommendations will help you heal faster:
Apply cold compresses to the cheek.
Avoid hot drinks and food for the first 24 hours.
Refrain from smoking for at least 48 hours after the extraction.
Avoid vigorous rinsing and drinking through a straw.
Maintain good oral hygiene, but avoid brushing the extraction site directly.
Take prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics if advised by your dentist.
Although wisdom teeth are the last to appear in our mouths, they often cause the first serious dental problems. Timely consultation with a dental specialist and proper diagnosis are essential for preventing complications. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or other discomfort in the wisdom tooth area, don’t postpone your visit to a specialist. In some cases, removal is the best long-term decision for your oral health.
Don’t hesitate to book your check-up and consultation at Impression Dent Dental Clinic by calling +359 886 117 887 or through our contact form HERE.
