When Do Wisdom Teeth Become Problematic
Wisdom teeth erupt without any complications if you’re lucky. However, they may sometimes come through at a funny angle, which can then push into the gums, cheeks or the adjacent teeth. This condition is called wisdom tooth impaction.
An impacted wisdom tooth can be painful and sometimes cause infection. Food and bacteria can easily become trapped between the wisdom tooth and the molar in front of the wisdom tooth. Located at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be hard to reach. Thus brushing and flossing can be challenging. As a result, tooth decay and gum infections, known as pericoronitis, can occur.
Moreover, crowded wisdom teeth tend to lean sideways and rub against the cheek. It can result in cheek ulcers and chewing difficulties.
Dentists usually recommend wisdom teeth removal if the mouth does not have enough room for the teeth to come through properly to prevent pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. If there is pain, infection or damage to other teeth, the dentist will strongly recommend urgent removal of the wisdom teeth to prevent further deterioration in oral health
Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
Using x-rays will help in determining if there are any potential problems with your wisdom teeth. Some wisdom teeth do not cause any issues and do not need to be removed.
If your wisdom teeth need to be removed, our dentists typically uses a local anaesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Sometimes we may also use sedation dentistry procedures to ensure the patient is relaxed and comfortable during the wisdom teeth removal.
After the wisdom tooth has been removed, stitches may be used to help the area heal. It’s normal for your jaw and gums to feel sore, swollen, and bleed for a few days after the procedure.
A dry socket, also referred to as alveolar osteitis, is a potential complication of wisdom tooth removal. It occurs when the area from which the tooth was removed does not heal properly, resulting in severe pain and foul odours emanating from the affected area. Our dentists at Happy Dentistry has the training and experience to treat a dry socket successfully.
Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of your mouth, usually appearing between ages 17–25. Sometimes, they can become impacted or cause crowding, requiring removal.
Why do I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth may need removal if they are impacted, causing pain, infection, swelling, decay, or damaging nearby teeth. Partially erupted wisdom teeth may trap food and bacteria, causing tooth decay and gum disease. Even if they don’t hurt now, regular dental check-ups and X-rays are important to prevent future problems and protect your oral health. Removal helps prevent future oral health issues.
What are the signs of wisdom teeth coming in?
Common signs of wisdom teeth coming in include tender or swollen gums, jaw soreness, headaches, bad breath, or difficulty opening your mouth fully. You might also feel pressure or pain in the back of your mouth. If discomfort persists, visit your dentist to check for impaction or infection.
How long does wisdom teeth removal take?
The duration depends on the complexity and number of teeth removed, typically taking 30–60 minutes for a single tooth or longer for multiple removals.
What should I expect after wisdom teeth removal?
You may experience swelling, mild discomfort, and limited mouth opening for a few days. We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and recovery.
How long should wisdom tooth pain last?
Wisdom tooth pain usually lasts a few days to a week, depending on the cause. Mild discomfort from a growing wisdom tooth or after extraction should improve within 3–7 days. If the pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or comes with swelling or fever, it could be a sign of infection or impaction, and you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Eat soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. Avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as using straws, to support proper healing.
What is the downside of removing wisdom teeth?
While wisdom tooth removal is a common and safe procedure, it can cause temporary side effects such as swelling, soreness, jaw stiffness, or mild bleeding. In rare cases, complications like dry socket, infection, or nerve irritation may occur. These issues are usually short-term and heal with proper care. Most patients recover fully within a few days and enjoy long-term oral health benefits from having their wisdom teeth removed.
What is a dry socket, and how can I prevent it?
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges, causing pain and delayed healing. Prevent it by avoiding smoking, using straws, and following our aftercare instructions.
Does removing wisdom teeth change face shape?
In most cases, removing wisdom teeth does not permanently change your face shape. Some people may notice temporary swelling or a slightly slimmer jawline once the swelling goes down, especially if the wisdom teeth were impacted. However, this change is usually subtle. Your facial structure and bone shape remain the same — the main benefit of wisdom tooth removal is improved comfort and oral health, not cosmetic change.
Can wisdom teeth cause double chin?
No, wisdom teeth do not directly cause a double chin. However, when impacted wisdom teeth lead to jaw swelling or inflammation, your face may appear slightly puffy or uneven for a few days. This swelling is temporary and not the same as a true double chin, which is usually caused by fat deposits, loose skin, or genetics. Once the swelling from your wisdom teeth subsides, your jawline returns to normal.
Do wisdom teeth shift or lock my jaw?
Yes, wisdom teeth can sometimes affect your jaw alignment and movement. When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow, they may push against nearby teeth, causing crowding, bite changes, or mild jaw discomfort. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth or infection-related swelling can make it difficult to open or close your mouth — a condition known as jaw locking (trismus).
If you experience jaw stiffness, pain, or shifting teeth, it’s best to visit your dentist or oral surgeon for an evaluation. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays help monitor wisdom tooth growth and prevent long-term jaw or alignment issues.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Most people recover from wisdom teeth removal in about 3 to 7 days. Mild swelling, soreness, or jaw stiffness are normal and usually fade within a week. More complex extractions may take up to two weeks to fully heal. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions helps ensure a smooth recovery.
Can I go back to work or school after wisdom teeth removal?
You may need 1–3 days of rest after the procedure, depending on your recovery and the complexity of the extraction. We will guide you on your recovery plan during your visit.
Don’t Delay On Your Wisdom Tooth Removal
The more time you spend waiting or delaying, the more opportunities there are for problems that could damage nearby teeth. Wisdom teeth can also be easier to extract and heal when the bone is younger.
Consult our dentists about wisdom teeth removal if you are experiencing extreme pain or any other issues related to your wisdom teeth. We are going to examine your teeth and provide you with recommendations on how to treat the discomfort.
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