Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom Teeth Treatment
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to develop and sit at the back of the upper and lower jaws. Because jaw space may be limited, they can become impacted or grow at an unfavourable angle.
If a wisdom tooth is impacted or poorly positioned, it may affect nearby teeth and gums. A dentist can assess whether removal is needed.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Grow?
Wisdom teeth usually erupt from the late teens to early adulthood, although timing varies. Some people never develop them, while others erupt much later. Their position at the back also makes them harder to clean, increasing the risk of decay and gum inflammation.
When Should a Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth that lack space, grow at an angle or remain impacted can affect oral health. Common problems include swollen or painful gums, repeated inflammation, pressure on nearby teeth, bad breath and tooth decay. Some people may also experience difficulty chewing or opening the mouth.
Your dentist will examine the mouth and review X-rays to assess the tooth position, angle and its relationship with nearby teeth and nerves. Removal may be advised if a wisdom tooth causes repeated inflammation, pain, decay, cleaning problems or damage to nearby teeth. If it erupts normally and remains easy to clean, regular monitoring may be enough.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Options
Treatment depends on the tooth position, degree of impaction and overall oral health. After an examination and X-ray assessment, the dentist will decide whether a simple extraction or surgical removal is more suitable.
A simple extraction may be suitable when the wisdom teeth has fully erupted, is well positioned and can be removed directly. Local anaesthetic is used before the teeth is gently loosened and removed with dental instruments.
Surgery may be needed for impacted, horizontal or deeply positioned wisdom teeth, or teeth close to a nerve. Under local anaesthetic, the gum is opened to access the tooth. A small amount of bone may be removed and the tooth may be sectioned before removal. The area is then sutured and reviewed during healing.
Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Bite firmly on the gauze for about 30-60 minutes to help a blood clot form and control bleeding. If light bleeding continues, replace it with clean gauze and keep gentle pressure on the area.
Take prescribed medication as directed to manage discomfort and reduce infection risk.
Avoid touching the wound with your tongue during the early healing period, as this may disturb the blood clot.
Avoid forceful rinsing or spitting for about three days after extraction, as this may dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Eat only after the local anaesthetic has worn off. Choose soft or liquid foods and avoid very hot, hard or spicy foods.
Brushing is generally avoided on the day of surgery. For the next few days, brush carefully and avoid the wound area.
Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid smoking and drinking through straws, which may increase the risk of delayed healing or infection.
Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs
Learn more about Wisdom Teeth and common concerns.
How many wisdom teeth can be removed at once?
It depends on their position, level of impaction and surgical complexity. In suitable cases, more than one wisdom tooth may be removed in the same appointment.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so significant pain is not usually felt during treatment. Mild swelling or discomfort may occur afterwards and normally improves over time.
Can I get a fever after wisdom teeth removal?
A mild fever or temporary discomfort may occur in some people. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your dentist for review.
How long does swelling last?
Wisdom teeth removal does not normally change facial shape or normal chewing function. Removing a problematic wisdom tooth can instead reduce crowding-related discomfort and other oral problems.
Will wisdom teeth removal change my face or chewing?
Wisdom teeth removal does not normally change facial shape or normal chewing function. Removing a problematic wisdom tooth can instead reduce crowding-related discomfort and other oral problems.