Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. While some people experience no issues, others may develop pain, crowding, or infection that requires treatment.
We provide careful assessment and safe wisdom tooth removal when needed, with a focus on comfort and recovery.
Below are answers to the most common questions about wisdom teeth.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. They are the final teeth to emerge at the very back of your mouth, both on the top and bottom jaw.
In many cases, there may not be enough space for them to grow properly, which can lead to impaction or misalignment.
Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth may need removal if they cause or are likely to cause dental problems such as:
- Pain or swelling
- Infection or gum inflammation
- Tooth decay in hard-to-clean areas
- Pressure or crowding of nearby teeth
- Partially erupted or impacted positioning
- Cyst formation or damage to surrounding bone
Even if they are not currently painful, your dentist may recommend removal to prevent future complications.
What does impact wisdom teeth mean?
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that does not fully emerge through the gum. It may grow sideways, remain trapped in the jawbone, or only partially break through the gum.
Impacting can make the area difficult to clean, increasing the risk of decay, infection, and gum disease.
What are the symptoms of wisdom teeth problems?
Common signs that wisdom teeth may be causing issues include:
- Pain at the back of the mouth
- Swollen or red gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Headache or jaw discomfort
- Tenderness while chewing
Some impacted wisdom teeth may not show symptoms and are only detected on X-rays.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. If wisdom teeth grow properly, are fully erupted, and can be cleaned easily, they may not need removal.
However, regular dental monitoring is important to ensure they do not develop future problems.
Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
The procedure itself is not painful as it is performed under local anaesthesia and/or sedation.
After treatment, some swelling, mild discomfort, and stiffness are normal for a few days. These symptoms are temporary and can be managed with prescribed medication and aftercare instructions.
How is wisdom tooth removal done?
The procedure depends on how the tooth is positioned:
- The area is numbed for comfort
- A small opening is made in the gum if needed
- The tooth may be loosened or divided into sections
- The tooth is removed carefully
- The area is cleaned and stitched if required
- Gauze is placed to help with healing
Your dentist will choose the safest and most comfortable approach for your case.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing usually takes about a few days to one week, while full recovery may take a couple of weeks depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Swelling and discomfort typically peak within the first 48–72 hours and gradually improve.
What should I expect after wisdom tooth removal?
After the procedure, it is normal to experience:
- Mild swelling and bruising
- Slight bleeding for the first 24 hours
- Soreness in the jaw area
- Temporary difficulty opening the mouth
Following aftercare instructions helps ensure smooth healing.
What foods can I eat after removal?
For the first few days, it is best to eat:
- Soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potato, or soup
- Lukewarm meals (avoid very hot food)
- Foods that require minimal chewing
Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods until healing progresses.
How do I take care of my mouth after surgery?
To support healing:
- Avoid rinsing vigorously for 24 hours
- Do not use straws for a few days
- Keep the area clean as advised by your dentist
- Use saltwater rinses after the first day
- Avoid smoking or alcohol during recovery
- Take prescribed medication as directed
Good aftercare reduces the risk of complications.
What are the risks of wisdom tooth removal?
Wisdom tooth extraction is very safe, but like any procedure, it may carry minor risks such as:
- Infection
- Dry socket (delayed healing)
- Temporary swelling or bruising
- Mild nerve irritation (rare cases)
Your dentist will explain all risks before treatment and take steps to minimise them.
When should I see the dentist?
You should book an appointment if you experience:
- Ongoing pain at the back of your mouth
- Swelling or infection in the gums
- Difficulty chewing or opening your jaw
- Repeated discomfort around wisdom teeth
Early assessment helps avoid more complex problems later.