Wisdom teeth are actually the third molars. They usually erupt between the ages of 18 and 20, which is why they are commonly called “wisdom teeth.” Like all other teeth, if they erupt in the correct position, they can function normally and contribute significantly to chewing. However, due to issues such as a narrow jaw, wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to erupt properly and may need to be extracted.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt?
Wisdom teeth can be considered backup molars. Since most people do not lose their molars at an early age, wisdom teeth remain dormant until adulthood. In other words, if molars are lost at a young age, wisdom teeth can fill those gaps. Wisdom teeth generally erupt around the ages of 18–20, although they may appear later in life or may never develop in some individuals.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth often cannot find enough space due to jaw narrowness or irregular tooth alignment. While trying to erupt, they may cause infections or lesions. To prevent complications and relieve discomfort, extraction may be recommended. Impacted wisdom teeth that cause problems are also commonly removed through surgical procedures. However, wisdom teeth that erupt properly or remain impacted without causing any issues usually do not require extraction.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Wisdom teeth can be removed through a simple extraction or a surgical procedure.
Simple Extraction
Wisdom teeth that have erupted normally and do not have root complications can usually be removed easily under local anesthesia. Stitches are generally not needed, although in some cases sutures may be placed to help the gums heal faster. Dentists may prescribe antibiotics before or after the procedure if there is a risk of infection.
Extracție chirurgicală
Surgical extraction is generally performed for impacted or partially impacted wisdom teeth. Since these teeth often cause infections while trying to erupt, antibiotics may be prescribed before the procedure. Under local anesthesia and sterile conditions, the tooth is surgically removed. In more advanced cases, general anesthesia may also be used. After extraction, the area is usually cleaned and sutured to support healing and prevent food debris from entering the wound.
For upper wisdom teeth, numbness may sometimes extend to the nose or around the eyes. For lower wisdom teeth, the entire area around the tooth is numbed temporarily. If the roots are close to a nerve, the dentist may request a tomography scan to evaluate the risk of nerve damage and possible complications such as prolonged numbness.
What Should Be Done After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
• A sterile gauze pad is placed on the extraction site and should be bitten down on for about 30 minutes.
• If recommended by your dentist, ice can be applied externally with breaks to reduce swelling.
• Eating is generally allowed 2 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid hot and hard foods; prefer soft and warm foods.
• Do not rinse or spit during the first 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, brushing and mouthwash recommended by your dentist can be used.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol to support healing.
• Take prescribed medications regularly.
These recommendations apply to both simple and surgical extractions.
Brushing Teeth After Extraction
Teeth can usually be brushed 24 hours after the extraction. Until the wound heals, a soft toothbrush should be used carefully around the area.
How Long Does Bleeding Last?
Bleeding generally starts immediately after extraction and may continue throughout the day. It usually stops within 24 hours. Mild bleeding or pink-colored saliva may continue for a few more days, which is considered normal.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Extracted?
If wisdom teeth cause pain, pressure, crowding, infections, or remain impacted, a dentist may decide that extraction is necessary.
What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Are Not Removed?
Since wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they are difficult to clean properly. As a result, plaque and food accumulation may lead to several problems, including:
• Tooth decay
• Gum infections and swelling
• Pain and sensitivity
• Cyst or tumor formation
• Crowding and eruption problems
• Sinus-related issues (especially upper wisdom teeth)
However, if there is enough space in the mouth and the wisdom tooth erupts properly without causing discomfort, extraction may not be necessary.
