Extracting Wisdom Teeth

• According to the Mayo Clinic, some experts maintain that impacted wisdom teeth should always be extracted regardless of whether they are causing problems. The consensus is that, even if impacted wisdom teeth aren't creating problems for you now, sooner or later they will.
  
  The Mayo Clinic says it's up to you and your dentist to decide which course of treatment is best for your situation.
  
  

Common Reasons For Extraction

• The ADA says there are circumstances that clearly warrant the extraction of wisdom teeth. They should be removed if they only partially come through the gums because that creates an opening for bacteria that can lead to gum disease. This can cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the jaw.
  
  Wisdom teeth should also come out if their incompatible positioning will disturb and possibly damage nearby teeth.
  
  

Symptoms

• You may not realize that one or more of your wisdom teeth are impacted, but sometimes there are indications that something is amiss. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the frequent signs and symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth are pain and swelling in and around the jaw. You may also have a persistent headache or jaw ache and red, swollen and sore gums around the impacted tooth.
  
  

Extraction

• Oftentimes an impacted wisdom tooth can be extracted in your dentist's office using local anesthesia. An oral surgeon may be needed if the extraction is complex, such as when a tooth is very impacted. You may be placed under general anesthesia for more difficult extractions.
  
  In order to reach an impacted wisdom tooth, an incision must be made in your gum. If the tooth is partially exposed your dentist or oral surgeon may take it out with forceps. If it is completely impacted, or when its roots extend far into the jawbone, the tooth may have to be broken into tiny pieces in order to be removed.
  
  Stitches may be needed to seal the gap in your gum.
  
  

Following Your Extraction

• You may require a prescription pain medication if you experience intense pain during the first few days after your extraction surgery. It's common to have swelling of your jaw and cheeks following surgery. Both your pain and swelling may be lessened by applying ice packs. You may also notice some bruising around your jaw or upper neck.
  
  The majority of people experience a swift recovery following the extraction of wisdom teeth.
  
  Your dentist or oral surgeon will inform you of possible complications, such as possible numbness in your gums, tongue, chin and teeth.