Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures. It involves extracting one or more third molars — commonly referred to as wisdom teeth — which typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 and often cause problems when there is not enough room in the mouth for them to come in properly.
The Procedure
Wisdom teeth can become impacted — trapped under the gum or only partially erupted — leading to pain, infections, and damage to the teeth nearby. When this happens, removal is the recommended course of action. The oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gum, clears any bone blocking access to the tooth, and extracts it. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, conscious sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on complexity.
Recovery generally takes a few days, during which some swelling, soreness, and mild bleeding are normal. Following your dentist's post-op instructions — including eating soft foods, not smoking, and keeping the area clean — will help ensure a smooth recovery. Removing problematic wisdom teeth prevents infections, cysts, and damage to neighboring teeth, leading to a healthier, more comfortable mouth long term.