Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Overview

If you have one or more wisdom teeth that are causing problems in your mouth, you may need to have them removed. We call it "extraction." Sometimes extraction can be done by a dentist, but sometimes you may need to go to an oral surgeon.

Why extraction?

There are many reasons why you may need to have a wisdom tooth extracted. It may be crowding your other teeth. It may have only partially pushed through your gum, and begun to decay. It may be trapped below your gum, where it is pressing against the roots of nearby teeth. That's called an "impacted" tooth.

Simple extraction

A simple extraction by a dentist is a routine procedure. First, your tooth is numbed. You may be given medicine to help you relax. Then, your dentist uses special forceps to pull your tooth. You'll feel some pressure, but you won't feel pain.

Surgical extraction

If your tooth is impacted and an oral surgeon is removing it, the procedure is more complex. First, your tooth is numbed. You may be given medicine to help you relax, or you may be put to sleep. Then, the surgeon makes an incision in your gum to reach your tooth. Some bone is removed to expose the roots of your tooth. Your tooth is removed in one or more pieces. Finally, your gum may be stitched closed to help it heal.

Conclusion

After you have a wisdom tooth removed, follow all of your dentist's or oral surgeon's instructions carefully. If you don't, you could get an infection or have some other serious complication.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.