Wisdom teeth: common questions

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come through, usually in the late teens or early twenties, though they can cause problems at any age. Many people keep theirs with no trouble. Others need them checked, or removed.

When removal may be discussed

A wisdom tooth may need to come out if there is not enough space for it to come through fully. It may be blocked by another tooth, or partly covered by gum. This can lead to:

• pain and swelling
• infection in the gum around the tooth
• food getting trapped
• decay or gum disease
• a fluid-filled sac (cyst) or an abscess

If a wisdom tooth is not causing problems, it is usually left in place and watched at routine check-ups. Your dentist may use X-rays to see how it is positioned.

What removal can involve

A dentist may remove the tooth or refer you to a specialist. A local anaesthetic numbs the area, so you should not feel pain. Sedation or a general anaesthetic may be used if the tooth is harder to remove or you are very anxious. Removal can involve opening the gum, and sometimes dividing the tooth into pieces, and stitches that dissolve by themselves may be used. It often takes only a short time.

Recovery

Most people are back to normal activities within a day or so, though some need a little longer. For a while you may have soreness, swelling, bruising on the cheek and a stiff jaw. A blood clot forms over the wound and helps it heal, so look after it. Your dentist will give you advice, including about pain relief that is right for you.

• Eat soft food until chewing is comfortable.
• Keep the area clean by rinsing gently, as your dentist advises.
• Clean your other teeth carefully, avoiding the wound.
• Avoid hard or crunchy food, smoking, alcohol and very hot drinks.

Possible complications

• Dry socket, a painful condition where the clot is lost or does not form properly
• Infection
• Numbness or tingling in the lip, tongue or chin if a nearby nerve is affected, which usually improves

Your dentist or surgeon should explain the risks and your options before you agree to treatment.

When to see a dentist

• Pain, swelling or a bad taste around a wisdom tooth
• Food that keeps getting trapped at the back of your mouth
• After removal: bleeding that does not stop, pain or swelling that is getting worse, or a bad taste with a high temperature or feeling unwell. Contact your dentist urgently.

Get urgent help now if swelling is spreading across your face or neck, or if you have trouble breathing or swallowing.

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Educational information. It does not replace advice from your dentist or doctor.