Wisdom teeth may need to be removed if they:

• Are impacted (trapped beneath the gum or jawbone).
• Cause pain, swelling, or infection.
• Lead to crowding or misalignment of other teeth.
• Damage adjacent teeth or lead to cavities or gum disease.

Signs include:

• Pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth.
• Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the gums.
• Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth.
• Frequent infections near the wisdom teeth.
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

No, removal isn’t always necessary. If the wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, properly aligned, and not causing problems, they may not need to be removed. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation with X-rays to determine if removal is necessary.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, the dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision if necessary, remove the tooth, and close the area with stitches.

Recovery typically takes about 3–5 days, though some swelling and tenderness can last up to a week. Most patients can resume normal activities after a few days but should avoid strenuous activities for at least a week.

Stick to soft, non-irritating foods like:

• Applesauce, yogurt, or pudding.
• Mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs.
• Smoothies (without a straw).
  Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as using a straw, to prevent complications like dry socket.

Stitches are often used for surgical extractions, particularly if the tooth is impacted. Dissolvable stitches typically dissolve on their own within a week, but your dentist will let you know if follow-up care is needed.

Pain can be managed with:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
• Prescription pain medication if necessary.
• Applying a cold compress to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours.
• Rinsing with warm saltwater after the first 24 hours to keep the area clean.

Pain can be managed with:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
• Prescription pain medication if necessary.
• Applying a cold compress to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours.
• Rinsing with warm saltwater after the first 24 hours to keep the area clean.

Contact your dentist if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain after the first few days.
• Excessive bleeding or swelling.
• Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or foul odor.
• Numbness or tingling that doesn’t improve.

• Arrange transportation if you’ll be sedated.
• Follow pre-operative instructions, such as fasting if required.
• Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing makeup or jewelry.