Everything You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal—just hearing it can make you wince. Whether your dentist recommended it or you’re just curious, knowing what to expect can ease your worries. Here’s a guide on why it’s necessary and how to recover.

What Exactly Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in your mouth. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, two at the top and two at the bottom, though some people might have fewer (or none at all). They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25.

While they might have served a purpose for our distant ancestors who needed extra teeth for chewing coarse food, wisdom teeth aren’t exactly essential today. For many people, they end up causing more harm than good.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it’s a common procedure for good reason. Here are some of the main reasons why removal is often necessary:

1. Crowding and Misalignment

Since wisdom teeth erupt later in life, there often isn’t enough room in your mouth to accommodate them. This can lead to crowding or even push your existing teeth out of alignment.

2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly, they may get stuck (or impacted) beneath the gum line or grow at an awkward angle. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection, and they’re impossible to clean properly.

3. Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Even if your wisdom teeth come in straight, they’re located at the very back of your mouth, making them harder to clean. This increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.

4. Cysts or Tumors

Although rare, impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the formation of cysts—fluid-filled sacs that can damage neighboring teeth and jawbone.

When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Timing can vary depending on whether your wisdom teeth are causing problems. Here are a few scenarios where removal is recommended:

• If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or infection in the back of your mouth.
• If X-rays show that your teeth are impacted or at risk of damaging adjacent teeth.
• If your dentist notices that your wisdom teeth are misaligned or likely to cause crowding as they grow in.

Keep in mind, it’s often better to remove wisdom teeth earlier rather than later. Younger patients tend to heal faster and face fewer complications since their bones are less dense.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The thought of surgery can be nerve-wracking, but wisdom teeth removal is a very common and safe procedure. Here’s what happens step-by-step:

Step 1. Preparation and Anesthesia

Your oral surgeon, like those in West Jordan, will review your X-rays, medical history, and any medications you’re currently taking. A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area, or you may be given sedation (such as laughing gas or IV sedation) to make you feel more at ease.

Step 2. Extraction

If your teeth are fully erupted, removal is straightforward. For impacted teeth, the surgeon will make a small incision in your gum and may need to break the tooth into smaller sections to extract it.

Step 3. Closing the Incision

Once the teeth are removed, any incisions will be closed with dissolvable sutures. Gauze will be placed over the site to manage bleeding.

Step 4. Recovery Room

You’ll rest in a recovery area while the effects of anesthesia wear off. Once you’re stable, you’ll be sent home with care instructions.

The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour.

What Should You Expect During Recovery?

Recovery from wisdom teeth removal typically takes about 3–7 days. Here’s what you need to know:

Common Side Effects

• Swelling and bruising around the jaw.
• Mild discomfort or pain, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter painkillers.
• Some bleeding, especially on the first day.
• Difficulty eating solid foods or opening your mouth widely.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

1. Follow Post-Op Instructions 

  Your oral surgeon will provide guidelines for care, including when to take medication and how to clean the extraction site.

2. Use Ice Packs 

  Ice packs can reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Apply them to your jaw for 20-minute intervals during the first 24 hours.

3. Stick to Soft Foods 

  Focus on easy-to-eat options like soups, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and smoothies to avoid irritating the extraction site. Avoid using straws to prevent dry socket (a painful condition caused by dislodged blood clots).

4. Stay Hydrated 

  Drink plenty of water, but avoid hot beverages or anything carbonated for the first few days.

5. Rest Up 

  Take it easy and allow your body time to heal. Avoid strenuous activity for at least 48–72 hours.

6. Keep the Area Clean 

  Gently rinse your mouth with salt water after 24 hours post-surgery to keep the area clean. Don’t brush near the extraction site until your surgeon gives you the green light.

When to Call Your Surgeon

If you experience excessive swelling, severe pain, fever, or prolonged bleeding, contact your oral surgeon immediately.

Are There Alternatives to Removal?

If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any issues, your dentist may recommend keeping them. Regular dental checkups and X-rays will help monitor their growth and alignment over time. However, if problems develop, removal is usually your best option.

Conclusion

Now that you know more about why wisdom teeth are often removed, you can feel confident discussing your options with your dentist or oral surgeon. Remember, removal is a common and safe procedure that can prevent future dental problems and help ensure a healthy smile for years to come.