Make a Wise Decision: What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth
- Teale Orban
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
Wisdom teeth—also known as third molars—are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. For some, these teeth grow in without issues. But for many, they become impacted or misaligned, leading to discomfort or dental complications that require removal.
Let’s break down the basics of wisdom teeth, when and why they may need to be removed, and what to expect before and after surgery.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars located at the very back of your mouth. While they were helpful for our ancestors who needed strong teeth for grinding tough foods, today they’re often unnecessary—and problematic.
Humans’ jaws have become smaller over time, and there’s often not enough room for these extra teeth to fit properly, which can cause them to become impacted or grow in sideways.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are typically removed if they:
● Are impacted (stuck under the gums or growing sideways)
● Crowd other teeth
● Cause pain, swelling, or infection
● Lead to gum disease or tooth decay
● Form cysts or damage nearby bone
Even if you’re not experiencing pain, your dentist might recommend removal if your wisdom teeth are likely to cause issues later.
Common symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth:
● Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw
● Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
● Bad breath or unpleasant taste
● Headaches or earaches
● Difficulty opening your mouth fully
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to book an exam.
What’s involved in a wisdom teeth removal procedure?
Most wisdom teeth removals are performed by a dentist or oral surgeon under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case.
Here’s what typically happens:
1. Imaging – Your dentist will take X-rays to see the position of your wisdom teeth.
2. Extraction – A small incision may be made in the gums to access the teeth. In some cases, the tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
3. Stitching – Dissolvable stitches may be used to close the area.
4. Recovery – Most people recover in 3–5 days, with full healing in a couple of weeks.
What to do after wisdom teeth removal:
1. Rest and recover: Take it easy for a couple of days.
2. Manage pain and swelling: Use cold compresses and any prescribed medication. 3. Stick to soft foods: Think yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and soup.
4. Avoid straws and smoking: These can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful post-op complication.
5. Rinse gently: Use warm saltwater after 24 hours to keep the area clean. Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not always! If your wisdom teeth come in fully, are healthy, and don’t disrupt surrounding teeth, you might not need to remove them. Your dentist will assess the situation with X-rays and regular exams to determine the best plan for you.
Talk to your dentist
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, swelling, or suspect your wisdom teeth are coming in, speak with your dental team. At Simpli Dental, we’re happy to evaluate your teeth and provide honest recommendations about whether removal is necessary.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common and safe procedure—and for many people, it’s a proactive way to protect long-term oral health. Want to learn more? Reach out to Simpli Dental and book your consultation today.
Citations
1. American Dental Association (ADA) – “Wisdom Teeth”
2. Mayo Clinic – “Wisdom Tooth Extraction”
3. Cleveland Clinic – “Wisdom Teeth”
4. National Institutes of Health (NIH) / MedlinePlus – “Impacted wisdom teeth” https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002075.htm
5. Canadian Dental Association (CDA) – “Oral Surgery & Wisdom Teeth”
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