Wisdom teeth removal
A plain language guide to when wisdom teeth need to come out, what the visit is like and how recovery usually goes.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, the last teeth to come in. They usually try to emerge between the late teens and early twenties. Many mouths do not have enough room for them, so they can become impacted, which means they are trapped in the gum or jaw bone, or they come in at an angle or only partly.
When removal is recommended
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth out. An exam and imaging show whether they are healthy and can be cleaned, or whether they are likely to cause problems. Reasons your surgeon may recommend removal include:
- Pain, swelling or repeated infection around a tooth that has only partly come in
- Damage or decay in the neighboring tooth
- Cysts or other changes in the bone around an impacted tooth
- Gum disease that is hard to control because the tooth is difficult to reach
- Teeth that are likely to cause problems later, even if they do not hurt yet
What to expect
Your visit starts with an exam and imaging, usually X rays or a 3D scan. Your surgeon explains what he sees, reviews your options and answers your questions before anything is scheduled.
Removal is done with numbing, and most patients are also sedated for comfort. Options range from local anesthesia alone to nitrous oxide or IV sedation, which is monitored sedation in the office. Your surgeon will recommend what fits your health and the difficulty of the teeth.
Afterward, expect some swelling, soreness and light bleeding for the first few days. You will be given written instructions for rest, ice, soft foods and medication. Many people return to regular activities within a few days, although everyone heals at their own pace.
Common questions
Do I have to have my wisdom teeth removed?
Not always. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully in place and easy to keep clean may simply be watched. Teeth that are impacted, infected or damaging nearby teeth are usually better removed. An exam and images are the way to tell.
When should wisdom teeth be evaluated?
Dr. Bednar recommends an evaluation at about 15 years of age. An exam with X rays or a 3D scan shows how the wisdom teeth are developing and whether they are likely to have room. At that age the roots are not yet fully formed, which gives you and your surgeon time to plan the best timing. If removal is needed, it is often done in the late teens or early twenties. Adults of any age can also be evaluated.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Most patients are sedated for the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. Sedation keeps you comfortable and relaxed, and it allows the procedure to be completed in the best way for you. IV sedation, which is monitored sedation in the office, lets you rest through the procedure, and the area is also numbed so you stay comfortable afterward. Your options are reviewed at your consultation, and your surgeon will recommend what fits your health and the difficulty of the teeth.
How long is recovery?
Swelling and soreness are usually greatest in the first few days and then ease. Full healing of the gum and bone takes longer, but most people feel back to normal activities within about a week. Your instructions will tell you what to expect.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket happens when the blood clot that protects the healing area is lost early, which can cause pain that grows a few days after surgery. Following your care instructions lowers the chance. Call the office if pain gets worse instead of better.
When should I call after surgery?
Call if you have heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, fever, pain that is getting worse and does not respond to pain medications, swelling that keeps growing after the third day, or anything that worries you. In an emergency, call 911.
This guide is general information and is not medical or dental advice. Every patient is different, and your own surgeon will recommend what is right for you. Please do not send health information through this website.
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Dr. Bednar provides this care at Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, P.A., and welcomes patients from across the Twin Cities metro and surrounding Minnesota communities. Dentists can refer a patient online.
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