What is wisdom tooth removal?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) usually appear between the late teens and mid-twenties. When there is not enough space, they may come through partially or remain trapped (impacted) in the jaw.
Removal may be recommended if a wisdom tooth causes repeated infection, pain, decay, damage to the neighbouring tooth or other problems.
Common reasons patients seek wisdom tooth removal
- Pain or swelling at the back of the mouth
- Repeated gum infection around a partly erupted tooth (pericoronitis)
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth in front
- Food trapping and difficulty cleaning
- Cysts or other changes seen on X-ray
Who may benefit?
- Patients with symptomatic or problematic wisdom teeth
- Patients whose X-rays show a risk to neighbouring teeth
Only a dental examination can confirm whether this treatment is right for you.
How the treatment is evaluated and performed
- Examination & X-rayAn OPG (panoramic X-ray), and sometimes a CBCT, shows the tooth's position and nearby nerve.
- DiscussionWe explain whether removal is advised, the approach and possible risks.
- ExtractionPerformed under local anaesthesia; surgically impacted teeth may need a small incision.
- Recovery & reviewAftercare instructions and a review if required.
Consultation and diagnostic process
Imaging is essential to judge how close the roots are to the nerve in the lower jaw or the sinus in the upper jaw. Complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon.
General recovery and aftercare
- Bite on gauze as instructed to control bleeding
- Use cold packs for the first day to reduce swelling
- Eat soft, cool foods and avoid using a straw for a few days
- Do not smoke; avoid vigorous rinsing on the first day
- Take medicines only as prescribed
Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions specific to your treatment. Clinic to review aftercare text
Potential risks and limitations
- Pain, swelling and limited mouth opening for a few days
- Dry socket (delayed healing of the socket)
- Infection or bleeding
- Rarely, temporary or long-lasting numbness of the lip, chin or tongue
Your dentist will discuss risks, benefits and alternatives with you before you consent to treatment.
Treatment cost guidance
Cost depends on whether the extraction is simple or surgical and how deeply the tooth is impacted. An estimate is given after the X-ray.
Frequently asked questions
Do all wisdom teeth need removal?
No. Healthy, fully erupted wisdom teeth that can be cleaned often do not need removal.
How long is recovery?
Most people feel better within a few days to a week; surgical cases can take longer.
Will I be awake?
Wisdom tooth removal is usually done under local anaesthesia; you will be awake but the area will be numb.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a dental examination. Content to be reviewed by a qualified Dental One G dentist before publication. Treatment availability to confirm with clinic