Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to appear, usually erupting between ages 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth grow in without problems. But for others, wisdom teeth become impacted — meaning they don’t have enough room to fully emerge or grow in the right direction. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, inflammation, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. That’s when extraction becomes necessary.
In this article, we’ll explain why impacted wisdom teeth occur, the symptoms you may notice, and how the extraction procedure works.
What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
A wisdom tooth is considered impacted when it is stuck beneath the gum or jawbone and cannot erupt normally. This often happens because the jaw doesn’t have enough space, or the tooth is growing at an angle.
Common types of impaction include:
- Mesial impaction: tooth angled toward the front of the mouth
- Distal impaction: tooth angled toward the back
- Vertical impaction: tooth is upright but unable to erupt fully
- Horizontal impaction: tooth grows sideways into the neighboring molar
Each type can cause irritation, pressure, or more serious complications if not treated.
Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Need Extraction
Not all wisdom teeth require removal, but impacted ones often do because they can:
1. Cause Pain and Swelling
Impacted wisdom teeth can push against other teeth or irritate the gums, leading to ongoing pain, tenderness, and swelling.
2. Lead to Infection
Food and bacteria can get trapped around partially erupted teeth, causing gum infection (pericoronitis), abscesses, or bad breath.
3. Damage Nearby Teeth
Pressure from an impacted tooth can crowd or damage the adjacent molar, affecting alignment or causing decay.
4. Form Cysts or Tumors
In some cases, a fluid-filled sac can form around an impacted tooth, potentially harming the jawbone or nerves.
5. Affect Oral Hygiene
Crowded or partially erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
For these reasons, dentists often recommend early evaluation and extraction before complications develop.
The Extraction Procedure: Step-by-Step
Impacted wisdom tooth extraction is a common outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the case.
1. Consultation & Imaging
Your dentist or oral surgeon will take X-rays or 3D scans to determine the exact position of the tooth and plan the extraction.
2. Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area. For anxious patients or complex cases, sedation may be recommended for comfort.
3. Surgical Removal
A small incision is made in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
4. Cleaning & Closure
After the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed to help healing.
5. Recovery Instructions
You’ll receive detailed instructions on caring for the extraction site, managing swelling, eating, and avoiding dry socket.
Most people recover within several days, with full healing taking about 1–2 weeks.
Aftercare & Recovery
Proper care speeds healing and reduces complications:
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours
- Avoid smoking or using straws (prevents dry socket)
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies
- Take prescribed medications for pain and infection control
- Gently maintain oral hygiene, avoiding brushing directly on the extraction site
Most discomfort subsides after 3–4 days, and swelling typically reduces within a week.
When to See a Dentist About Wisdom Teeth
You should consult a dentist or oral surgeon if you experience:
- Persistent pain or pressure in the back of your mouth
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Crowded or shifting teeth
Early evaluation can prevent more serious issues and make extraction easier and safer.
