Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgical procedures, especially among younger people. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt—usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Since modern humans have smaller jaws than our ancestors, there is often insufficient space for wisdom teeth to emerge properly, leading to several complications: pressure on adjacent teeth, food retention, pain, swelling, gum inflammation, and cyst formation.
For this reason, wisdom tooth extraction is not performed only when pain occurs but also when diagnostics indicate that their growth will be difficult or potentially harmful to surrounding teeth and structures. Based on an orthopantomogram (jaw X-ray), the dentist assesses the risk and provides a recommendation. The decision is not rushed but based on long-term oral health planning.
It is important to understand that this procedure often prevents more serious complications that would require more complex treatment later. Timely evaluation and extraction of wisdom teeth significantly ease recovery and preserve the stability of the entire dental arch.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are often extracted due to their incomplete eruption, which can cause pain, swelling, and infections. Extraction is performed under local anesthesia, and the dentist may make small incisions to facilitate the removal. Recovery requires following the dentist’s instructions regarding care and the use of prescribed painkillers.
Impacted and retained teeth are those that cannot erupt properly.
Although wisdom teeth erupt last, they are often the first to decay or cause gum inflammation because of difficult hygiene. Wisdom teeth sometimesemerge only partially, making brushing difficult while encouraging food debris buildup and bacterial growth.
After the wisdom tooth is removed, the wound is carefully closed with resorbable sutures to promote proper healing and protect the area from external factors.
A wisdom tooth is the third molar located at the very end of the dental arch, typically erupting between the ages of 17 and 25.
Although they once played an important role in chewing raw and coarse food, today they are often unnecessary due to changes in diet and jaw development.
Because of the lack of space, wisdom teeth frequently erupt partially, misaligned, or do not erupt at all, which can cause pain, inflammation, and other complications in the oral cavity.
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that has failed to fully erupt into the oral cavity due to lack of space or improper growth direction.
It may be partially visible or completely trapped beneath the gum tissue or within the bone. While it may not always cause problems, it often leads to pain, pressure on adjacent teeth, inflammation, or cyst formation.
In many cases, extraction is recommended. The decision is based on clinical examination and X-ray imaging.
A wisdom tooth can decay just like any other tooth.
Decay most often occurs due to difficulty cleaning—it is located at the very end of the jaw, where plaque and food debris easily accumulate.
If the wisdom tooth is partially erupted, the area around it becomes especially vulnerable to cavities and inflammation.
A decayed wisdom tooth can cause pain, bad breath, and spread infection to surrounding teeth or tissues, making timely treatment important.
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction usually takes several days, with healing speed depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual’s response.
After the procedure, patients are given post-operative instructions, which include:
Using ice packs to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
Rest and avoiding physical exertion to promote faster healing and minimize bleeding.
Eating soft foods and avoiding very hot or cold items to prevent irritation.
Attending regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any issues.
Wisdom tooth extraction can be a routine procedure that contributes to oral health. To understand your specific needs and the recovery process, it is essential to consult your dentist. Following your dentist’s recommendations during recovery is crucial to ensure a quick and successful outcome.
