Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two on top and two on the bottom. While they once played a role in chewing tough foods in early humans, modern diets and smaller jaw sizes have made them largely unnecessary. Because of limited jaw space, wisdom teeth often become partially erupted or fully impacted.

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that fails to break through the gums completely due to lack of space or improper angulation. Impacted teeth can cause consistent pain, swelling, and infection and may push against neighboring teeth.

Why Is Wisdom Tooth Surgery Needed?

Wisdom tooth extraction is recommended in several situations:

Impacted Teeth

Teeth trapped in the jawbone or under the gum line.

Pain or Pressure

Throbbing pain at the back of the mouth often indicates impaction.

Recurrent Infections

A partially erupted tooth can trap bacteria, causing pericoronitis.

Cysts or Tumors

Impacted teeth may be associated with cyst formation in the jaw.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth

Wisdom teeth pushing against molars can cause root damage or decay.

Crowding

Wisdom teeth can shift the alignment of other teeth.

Gum Disease

Improper cleaning around wisdom teeth increases the risk of periodontal issues.

Early evaluation is crucial because removing wisdom teeth becomes more complex as patients age and bone hardens.

Types of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

Wisdom teeth may be classified by their angulation:

• Mesioangular impaction: Tooth angled toward the front

• Distoangular impaction: Angled toward the back

• Vertical impaction: Upright but stuck

• Horizontal impaction: Fully sideways

X-rays or CBCT scans help determine the exact position and surgical approach.

How Wisdom Tooth Surgery Is Performed

Wisdom tooth removal is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on complexity and patient comfort.

1. Examination and Imaging

Radiographs determine the tooth’s position, root anatomy, and proximity to nerves or sinuses.

2. Anesthesia

Local anesthesia numbs the area; sedation may be used for anxious patients.

3. Gum Incision

A small incision exposes the tooth and surrounding bone.

4. Bone Removal (If Necessary)

Some bone may be removed to access the tooth.

5. Tooth Sectioning

The tooth is divided into smaller pieces for easier extraction.

6. Extraction

Each section is removed carefully to avoid damaging nearby structures.

7. Suturing

Dissolvable stitches close the surgical site.

The entire procedure typically takes 20–45 minutes per tooth, depending on difficulty.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the extraction. Most patients experience:

• Mild swelling

• Slight bleeding

• Jaw stiffness

• Pain for 24–72 hours

• Difficulty opening the mouth fully

Swelling peaks around day 2–3 and gradually decreases.

Recovery Timeline

First 24 Hours

Bleeding stops, clot forms, and pain peaks.

48–72 Hours

Swelling reaches its maximum; pain becomes manageable.

Days 4–7

Bruising reduces, stitches dissolve, and comfort increases.

Weeks 1–2

Tissue healing progresses, and normal activities resume.

Months 1–3

Bone around the extraction site heals completely.

Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare reduces the risk of complications:

• Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding

• Apply cold packs for 20-minute intervals during the first day

• Eat soft foods like soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes

• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and straws for 5–7 days

• Rinse gently with warm salt water starting day two

• Maintain oral hygiene while avoiding the extraction site

Following these steps helps prevent infections and supports smooth healing.

Possible Complications

Dry Socket (Alveolar Osteitis)

Occurs when the blood clot dislodges. Causes severe pain 2–4 days post-surgery.

Infection

May cause fever, swelling, or discharge.

Nerve Damage

Lower wisdom teeth near the mandibular nerve can cause temporary numbness.

Sinus Issues

Upper wisdom tooth extractions may affect the sinus membrane.

Prolonged Bleeding

Typically resolves with proper pressure.

These issues are rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced professional.

Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal

• Prevents future infections

• Reduces crowding in the dental arch

• Eliminates pain and pressure

• Protects adjacent teeth

• Improves gum health

• Reduces risk of cysts or jawbone damage

Removing problematic wisdom teeth early leads to a smoother recovery and fewer long-term issues.