Wisdom teeth are the last molars, or "third molars" that develop on each side of the jaw. They usually emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 16-20. Wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned. Often, however, they cause problems that require their removal. When the jaw isn't large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may grow sideways, emerge only part way through the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. A wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure. The dentist will numb the area in the mouth with a local anesthesia or use IV sedation so that the patient is asleep during the procedure. After the tooth (or teeth) is removed, the patient is given gauze to softly bite down on for a recommended amount of time to limit any bleeding. Some pain, bruising and swelling may occur, but it will usually go away after a few days. Recovering from Wisdom Teeth Extraction After your extraction, it’s normal to experience some swelling, mild discomfort, and slight bleeding during the first 24–48 hours. Most patients begin to feel significantly better within a few days, and full healing generally takes about one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the extraction. To support a smooth recovery, it's important to follow our post-operative instructions closely. This may include resting, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication, and sticking to a soft food diet. Avoid using straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for the first few days, as these actions can disturb the healing process and increase the risk of dry socket—a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged. Good oral hygiene is still important during recovery, but you’ll want to be gentle around the surgical area. Rinse with warm salt water as directed, and gradually return to your normal brushing and flossing routine. If you experience severe pain, persistent swelling, or signs of infection, contact your dental office right away. With proper care, your recovery will be smooth—and you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time.
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