Services · 2 min read
Wisdom teeth: do they always need to come out?
Not every wisdom tooth needs removing. How dentists decide, and what to expect if extraction is advised.
Supriya Multispeciality Dental Clinic, Published
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come through, usually in the late teens or twenties. For some people they arrive without fuss. For others, there isn’t enough room, and they come through partly or at an angle.
When wisdom teeth are left alone
If a wisdom tooth is healthy, fully through, in a good position and easy to clean, it often doesn’t need to be removed. Your dentist may simply keep an eye on it at regular check-ups.
When treatment may be advised
- Repeated infection or swelling of the gum around a partly erupted tooth
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth next to it that can’t be treated
- Food trapping that leads to ongoing problems
- Damage to neighbouring teeth or other problems seen on examination
If removal is recommended
Your dentist will examine the area and may recommend imaging to see the tooth’s position and roots. They’ll explain the procedure, how long recovery usually takes and how to care for the area afterwards. Some swelling and discomfort for a few days is normal.
This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from a dentist who has examined you. Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation.