Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to emerge—typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. For some people, these teeth come through without any issues. For others, there may be discomfort, crowding, or signs of impaction that lead to a conversation about wisdom teeth removal.
Understanding why wisdom teeth are sometimes removed—and what the process involves—can help you feel more informed and prepared. In this blog, we’ll provide information for anyone facing the possibility of wisdom tooth removal. Let’s take a closer look at what wisdom teeth are, why removal is sometimes necessary, and how you can prepare for the process.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people develop four—two on the top and two on the bottom—but some may have fewer or even none at all.
These teeth are called “wisdom teeth” because they come in later than your other permanent teeth. Although they were once useful for chewing coarse, unprocessed foods, wisdom teeth are often less necessary today due to changes in diet and dental development.
Why Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Often Necessary?
Not everyone will need their wisdom teeth removed, but in many cases, extraction is recommended. This is usually due to a lack of space, which can lead to a number of oral health concerns.
Here are a few common reasons why wisdom teeth removal might be considered:
- Impaction: When a tooth doesn’t fully erupt through the gums, it’s called impacted. This can cause pain, swelling, or even infection.
- Crowding: As wisdom teeth try to push through, they may crowd or shift nearby teeth.
- Infection risk: Partially erupted teeth can create a pocket where bacteria and food get trapped, increasing the risk of decay or gum infection.
- Jaw pain or pressure: Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can put pressure on surrounding tissues.
- Cyst formation: In rare cases, fluid-filled sacs can form around impacted teeth, potentially affecting nearby bones or roots.
Regular dental check-ups often help identify potential issues early. In some cases, dentists may recommend monitoring the teeth before deciding whether removal is the right next step.
How To Know If You Should Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth don’t always cause noticeable symptoms. However, there are some signs that may suggest it’s worth seeking dental advice:
- Persistent pain or tenderness at the back of the mouth.
- Swelling of the gums near the molars.
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully.
- An unpleasant taste or odour (often due to trapped food or infection).
- Pressure or shifting in nearby teeth.
Even if you’re not currently experiencing symptoms, your dentist may identify concerns on X-rays or during routine exams. Some people opt for early removal to prevent future problems, especially if the wisdom teeth haven’t fully erupted yet.
What To Expect Before The Procedure
If wisdom teeth removal is recommended, your dentist will guide you through the next steps. The preparation phase can vary depending on your individual needs, but typically includes:
Initial Consultation
Your dentist will assess your teeth and discuss whether extraction is advised. X-rays may be taken to see how the wisdom teeth are positioned in the jaw. This can help determine a suitable approach for removal.
Instructions For The Day
Your dentist will give you detailed pre-procedure instructions, such as:
- Whether you need to fast before the appointment.
- Arranging for someone to drive you home afterwards.
- Wearing comfortable clothing.
- Preparing soft foods in advance for your recovery period.
The Day Of The Procedure
Understanding what happens during wisdom teeth removal can help reduce anxiety. While individual experiences vary, here’s a general overview of what you might expect:
- The dentist will carefully remove the tooth. If it’s impacted, a small incision may be made in the gum, and the tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal.
- Once removed, the area is cleaned, and gauze is placed to help stop any bleeding.
- Most procedures are completed within a short timeframe, and patients are able to return home shortly afterwards.
The team will explain aftercare steps, including how to manage any swelling, discomfort, and how to keep the area clean.
Recovery: What To Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery is different for everyone, but it’s usually manageable with rest and a little preparation. Here are a few common elements of recovery:
Mild Discomfort & Swelling
It’s normal to experience some swelling or tenderness for a few days. Rest can help manage this.
Soft Diet
Stick to soft, cool foods like yoghurt, smoothies, soups, and mashed vegetables. Avoid hot or crunchy foods that could irritate the site.
Avoid Straws & Smoking
Using a straw or smoking can dislodge the clot that forms in the socket, which may lead to a painful condition known as dry socket. It’s important to avoid these during recovery.
Gentle Oral Hygiene
You’ll likely be advised to avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first day or two, but keeping your mouth clean is still important.
Follow-Up Instructions
Always follow any aftercare guidance from your dentist. They may recommend a review appointment to help ensure everything is healing as expected.
Tips To Prepare For A Smooth Experience
Although the idea of dental surgery can feel daunting, a bit of planning can help make the process much more manageable.
- Plan time off: Set aside a few days for recovery, especially if your job or routine involves physical activity or talking for extended periods.
- Create a comfy rest area: Have some books, shows, or podcasts lined up so you can relax while you recover.
- Ask questions: If you’re unsure about any part of the process, speak with your dentist beforehand. Knowing what to expect can help ease any uncertainty.
Learn More About Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’re experiencing discomfort or have been told your wisdom teeth may need to be removed, it may be worth having a conversation with a dentist.
At Suncoast Dental, we understand that dental concerns can be stressful. Our team is here to provide information, guidance, and support tailored to your individual needs. If you have questions about wisdom teeth removal or want to learn more about your options, we welcome you to get in touch.
