Wisdom teeth – the third and final set of molars – usually make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people they cause no trouble at all. For many others, they do not have enough room to come through properly, leading to pain, infection or damage to neighbouring teeth. Here is what to expect if yours need to come out.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Most jaws simply do not have enough space for a third set of molars. When a wisdom tooth cannot fully emerge, it becomes impacted – stuck against the tooth in front, angled sideways, or only partially through the gum. This can lead to:
- Pain and swelling at the back of the jaw
- Infection around a partially erupted tooth
- Crowding or damage to the tooth next to it
- Cysts forming around an unerupted tooth (rare, but serious if left untreated)
- Difficulty cleaning the area properly, leading to decay
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth May Be Causing Problems
- Persistent pain or tenderness at the back of the mouth
- Swollen or bleeding gums around the back molars
- Difficulty or discomfort opening your mouth fully
- A bad taste or odour coming from the back of the gum
- Earache or jaw ache with no other obvious cause
If any of this sounds familiar, a check-up and an x-ray will tell us exactly what is happening beneath the gum.
Before Your Extraction
We will take an x-ray to see the exact position of the tooth, its roots and its relationship to nearby nerves. This helps us plan the safest approach and talk you through what to expect, including whether your case is straightforward or better suited to a referral to an oral surgeon for more complex extractions.
During the Procedure
Most wisdom tooth extractions are carried out under local anaesthetic, so you will be awake but should not feel pain, just some pressure. The tooth is gently loosened and removed, and in some cases a small amount of gum needs to be opened to access it. More complex or deeply impacted cases may be referred for treatment with sedation or a specialist oral surgeon.
Recovery: What to Expect After
The First 24 Hours
Some swelling, mild discomfort and slight bleeding are normal. Biting gently on gauze, applying a cold compress and taking recommended pain relief will help keep you comfortable. Rest, and avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously.
The Following Week
Stick to soft foods, keep the area clean with gentle salt water rinses (after the first 24 hours), and avoid smoking, straws and vigorous exercise while the socket heals. Most people are back to normal activities within a few days.
When to Contact Us
Contact us if you experience severe pain that worsens after a few days, heavy bleeding that will not stop, a fever, or a persistent bad taste – these can be signs of infection or a dry socket and are easily treated if caught early.
Ready to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Checked?
If you are experiencing pain at the back of your jaw, do not just wait for it to settle. Book a check-up and x-ray with our team and we will let you know exactly what your options are.
📞 Call us: 020 8656 6959 📍 Visit us: 202 Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon, CR0 7AB ✨ See our General Dentistry Services