Wisdom teeth (third molars) usually erupt between 17 and 25. Because the jaw often lacks space, they frequently come through partially or at an angle — known as an impacted wisdom tooth.
Problems they cause
- Pericoronitis — food and bacteria trapped under the gum flap, causing severe pain, swelling and pus
- Decay in the neighbouring molar from pressure and food trapping
- Trismus — difficulty opening the mouth
- Cysts — rarely, long-buried teeth form cysts in the bone
- Bad breath and taste
Do all wisdom teeth need removing?
No. A wisdom tooth that has erupted fully and straight, can be cleaned properly, and causes no trouble should be left alone. Removal is indicated only when it causes problems or is clearly going to. X-rays decide.
How the surgery works
- X-ray to locate the roots and their proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve
- Anaesthesia — complete numbing
- Access — a small incision if the tooth is covered
- Removal — the tooth may be sectioned into pieces to minimise bone removal
- Suturing — closed and reviewed at 7 days for suture removal
After surgery
Cheek swelling and limited mouth opening for 2–3 days is normal and part of healing. Ice packs on day one, the complete course of prescribed antibiotics and painkillers, soft cool food, and salt-water rinses from day two all speed recovery. Most patients are back to normal within 5–7 days.
Experience matters: lower wisdom tooth roots sit close to the main jaw nerve. Without careful radiographic assessment and an experienced surgeon there is a risk of lasting numbness. Dr. Md. Abdul Kahhar has 16+ years of oral surgery experience.
