What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
A wisdom tooth extraction is the removal of one or more of the four third molars, usually between ages 17–30.
These teeth often don’t have enough room to grow properly, causing pain or infections.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
✔ Impaction
Tooth is stuck in the bone or gum
✔ Pain / Swelling / Infection
Common in partially erupted teeth.
✔ Cavities or Gum Disease
Hard-to-clean wisdom teeth decay easily.
✔ Pressure on Other Teeth
Can cause crowding or shifting.
✔ Cyst Formation
Rare but serious.
Types of Extractions
Simple Extraction
For a tooth that has fully erupted.
– Quick
– Minimal swelling
Surgical Extraction
Used when the tooth is:
Impacted
Broken
Sideways
Under the gum or bone
May require:
Small gum incision
Bone removal
Tooth sectioning (cutting into pieces)
How the Procedure Is Done (Step-by-Step)
X-ray / CBCT to see tooth position
Local anesthesia (numbing injection)
Gum is opened (if impacted)
Bone may be trimmed
Tooth is loosened and removed
Cleaning of socket area
Stitches (if needed)
You bite on gauze to stop bleeding
Whole process: 20–40 minutes for most cases.
Complex cases: 45–90 minutes.
Does It Hurt?
During extraction: No pain, only pressure — because you’re fully numb.
After extraction:
Mild to moderate pain for 1–3 days
Swelling for 2–4 days
Usually manageable with medications
Recovery Timeline
Day 1–2
Bleeding slows
Pain is highest but controlled with medicines
Day 3–5
Swelling improves
Eating gets easier
Day 7
Stitches removed if non dissolving
2–3 weeks
Gums heal
6–8 weeks
Bone fully heals internally
Medications Often Given
Painkillers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen)
Antibiotics (if infection or surgery is complex)
Antiseptic mouthwash
Ice pack for swelling
Do’s and Don’ts After Extraction
✔ DO
Bite on gauze 30–45 mins
Use ice packs
Soft foods
Sleep with head raised
Keep mouth clean after 24 hrs
❌ DON’T
Don’t spit forcefully
Don’t rinse for 24 hrs
Don’t use straws
Don’t smoke
Don’t poke the area
What to Eat After Extraction
First 24 hours
Ice cream
Smoothies (no straw)
Yogurt
Soups (not hot)
Day 2–5
Mashed potatoes
Eggs
Pasta
Soft rice
Avoid for 7 days:
Straws
Chips
Spicy food
Alcohol
Smoking
Possible Complications
Most are rare and avoidable if instructions are followed.
❗ Dry Socket
Blood clot gets dislodged → severe pain
(avoid smoking, spitting, straw use)
❗ Infection
Swelling, pus, fever
❗ Nerve Sensitivity
Temporary numbness in lips/chin (lower wisdom teeth only)
❗ Sinus Issues
Rare—only with upper wisdom teeth