Wisdom teeth removal is usually recommended when a wisdom tooth causes repeated infection, decay, damage to the neighbouring tooth, a cyst or gum disease. Wisdom teeth that have erupted properly, can be cleaned and cause no problems do not always need to come out. They can be monitored with regular check-ups and X-rays when needed.
A definitive diagnosis and treatment plan are made by a dentist after an examination and imaging.
Why do wisdom teeth cause trouble?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Often the jaw does not have enough room, so the tooth stays buried in bone (impacted), erupts only partly or grows at an angle.
A partly erupted tooth leaves a gum flap that traps food. An angled tooth can press on the second molar, creating an area that is hard to clean.
When is wisdom teeth removal recommended?
Most guidelines, including the UK NICE guidance, link extraction to the presence of disease rather than routine removal. Common reasons include:
- repeated pericoronitis (infection of the gum around a partly erupted tooth);
- decay in the wisdom tooth or the neighbouring molar that cannot be restored;
- resorption of the second molar's root;
- a cyst around an impacted tooth;
- gum pockets and bone loss around the tooth;
- orthodontic or prosthetic treatment plans.
Pain on its own does not always mean the wisdom tooth is to blame. It may come from another tooth, the jaw joint or clenching.
When monitoring is reasonable
If a wisdom tooth is fully erupted, bites correctly and can be brushed, removal is often unnecessary. A fully buried tooth with no symptoms and no X-ray findings can also be watched. If anything changes, the decision is reviewed.
What the procedure involves
- A panoramic X-ray; a 3D scan if roots are close to the nerve.
- Local anaesthesia; you may feel pressure but the area is numb.
- Simple extraction, or a surgical approach for impacted teeth.
- Stitches if needed, plus written aftercare advice.
- A review appointment, usually after 7–10 days.
Swelling and tenderness are common for the first few days. Possible complications reported in the literature include dry socket, infection and, rarely, altered sensation in the lip. Avoiding smoking and straws helps the socket heal. Read more on our wisdom tooth removal page or about Dr Mehmet Fuat Bozaba, who plans surgical extractions at our clinic.
If there are pockets around the tooth, follow-up gum disease treatment may be advised.
Frequently asked questions
Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so most people feel only pressure. Some soreness and swelling are normal afterwards. These are usually managed with the medication your dentist recommends.
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Sometimes, yes. It depends on the position of the teeth, the expected length of the procedure and your general health. Often the upper and lower teeth on one side are planned together.
How soon can I return to work?
After a simple extraction many people return the next day. After surgical removal of an impacted tooth, two or three days of rest may be needed.
Should an impacted tooth with no symptoms be removed?
Not necessarily. Teeth with no symptoms and a clear X-ray can often be monitored, but silent problems such as cysts or pressure on the next tooth may justify extraction.
References
- National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE). Guidance on the extraction of wisdom teeth. Technology Appraisal Guidance No. 1. London: NICE; 2000.
- Miloro M, Ghali GE, Larsen PE, Waite PD (eds). Peterson's Principles of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2nd ed. Hamilton: BC Decker; 2004.
- Bouloux GF, Steed MB, Perciaccante VJ. Complications of third molar surgery. Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2007;19(1):117–128.
Book an assessment
We are in Bahçelievler, about 600 m from the M3 İlkyuva metro stop. You can message us in English on WhatsApp. Visit our contact page to arrange an appointment.
Medically reviewed by the dentists of Yayla Dental Akademi.