Wisdom Teeth Surgery: When and Why You Might Need an Extraction

Wonder why our third molar is called wisdom teeth? As they normally emerge between ages 17 and 25- a period often referred to as the "age of wisdom." These teeth are the last set of teeth to come up in the mouth. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, Many experience problems such as pain, swelling, or impaction, making wisdom tooth removal necessary. If you're wondering whether you need wisdom teeth extraction or what to expect from the procedure, let's find out!

Understanding wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth were thought to have served a more important role in our distant ancestors, who had larger jaws and a meat-based diet. As our diet changed and jaw sizes became smaller, wisdom teeth were rarely used daily, leading to problems like misalignment and impaction. They have become a vestigial part of our lives.

Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth can cause difficulties when they appear later and there is limited space in the jaw. They may grow in awkward angles, become impacted, or only partially break through the soft tissue of the gums. Wisdom-tooth removal is a frequently performed procedure that may help reduce the risk of certain complications and support overall oral health.

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth extracted, but there are several reasons why removal is recommended:

1) Impacted wisdom teeth surgery

Wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to emerge properly, causing them to become impacted within the jawbone or gums. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it may grow at an irregular angle, pressing against neighbouring teeth. This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty in cleaning the area, increasing the risk of infection, tooth decay, and gum disease.

In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can also contribute to crowding or misalignment of surrounding teeth, which may require orthodontic treatment. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor their growth and determine if removal is necessary.

2) Overcrowding

When there is insufficient space in the jaw, wisdom teeth may push against neighbouring teeth, gradually exerting pressure that can lead to crowding or misalignment. Over time, this may lead to misalignment, which can make oral hygiene more challenging and potentially raise the risk of decay or gum issues.

Regular dental check-ups and dental X-rays can help monitor the positioning of wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is necessary to prevent these complications.

3) Tooth decay and gum disease

Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Food and bacteria can get trapped under the gums, leading to inflammation known as pericoronitis. This is mostly seen associated with lower wisdom teeth.

4) Jaw pain and cysts

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infections in the jawbone. Sometimes, a fluid-filled sac (cyst) forms around the tooth, which can grow and damage nearby teeth and weaken the jawbone.

Bacteria trapped around the impacted tooth can also lead to gum infections and abscesses, making it painful to chew or open your mouth. If not treated, these problems can get worse, so removing wisdom teeth early can help prevent serious issues.

5) Bite and chewing problems

When wisdom teeth grow in at the wrong angle or don’t have enough space, they can push against your other teeth, causing your bite to become misaligned. This means that your upper and lower teeth may not fit together properly when you chew, leading to discomfort, uneven pressure, or even pain in your jaw.

Over time, this misalignment can make eating certain foods more difficult, cause strain on your jaw muscles, and even lead to excess wear on specific teeth, increasing the risk of further dental issues. If our dentist or oral surgeon determines that your wisdom teeth may cause future problems, they may recommend extraction as a preventive measure.

Different methods of wisdom tooth removal

The method used to remove a wisdom tooth depends on its position and how deeply it is embedded in the gums or jawbone. There are two main types of procedures:

(A) Simple Extraction 

If the wisdom tooth has fully erupted (grown out of the gums), it can be removed easily using dental forceps, similar to a regular tooth extraction. This approach is generally straightforward and often performed under local anaesthesia.

(B) Surgical Removal 

If the wisdom tooth is impacted (trapped beneath the gums or jawbone), a minor surgical procedure is required. The dentist or oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces before removal to minimise damage to the surrounding bone and tissues. This method is more common for horizontally impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth.

Since surgical removal is more complex, recovery time may be longer, and you may experience swelling or discomfort for a few days. Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your condition and recommend the most suitable procedure for a safe and smooth extraction.

What to expect during the wisdom tooth removal process?

1) Initial consultation

Before the procedure, your dentist or dental surgeon will perform a thorough examination to assess your wisdom teeth. This typically includes:

• A visual examination of your mouth to check for signs of impaction, swelling, or infection.
• X-rays or 3D scans to determine the exact position of the wisdom teeth and their relation to nerves, bone, and neighboring teeth.

Based on the findings, your dentist will discuss whether extraction is necessary and explain a suitable approach for your case. They will also go over anesthesia options and post-surgical care to ensure a smooth recovery.

2) Anesthesia Options

3) The Extraction Procedure

Once the anesthesia takes effect, the extraction begins:

• If undergoing a simple extraction, the dentist will loosen the tooth with a special tool before carefully removing it with forceps.
• For surgical extractions, the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. If necessary, the tooth will be sectioned into smaller parts for easier removal.
• The area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris or infection risk.
• Stitches may be placed to aid healing, especially if an incision was made. These stitches may be dissolvable or require removal after a few days.
• A gauze pad is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and promote clot formation.

After the procedure, you’ll be given post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

Related Articles:

• Wisdom Tooth Extraction In Singapore (2025): Your Comprehensive Guide
• Mystery of Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know

What can you expect after wisdom tooth extraction?

Following dental treatment to remove impacted wisdom teeth, it’s important to follow proper aftercare. During your wisdom tooth removal procedure for an impacted wisdom tooth, a blood clot naturally forms to protect the healing socket. You may apply an ice pack intermittently during the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling. Be sure to brush and floss gently around the extraction site, as debris can trap food in the socket and increase the risk of complications. If you experience severe pain or suspect a dry socket, call your dentist promptly for advice rather than delaying seeking professional care.

After wisdom teeth extraction, you can expect some swelling, mild to moderate pain, and slight bleeding, which are all part of the healing process. Swelling around your cheeks and jaw usually peaks within 48 hours and then gradually reduces. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers, and minor bleeding may occur for the first few hours. Your dentist will give you gauze pads to help control the bleeding; just bite down gently on them and change as needed.

For the first few days, stick to soft foods, avoid spitting, using straws, or vigorous rinsing, as these can disturb the healing site. You may also experience jaw stiffness (trismus), making it difficult to open your mouth fully, but this should improve with time. Most people recover within one to two weeks, but if you notice excessive pain, swelling, persistent bleeding, or signs of infection (such as fever or pus), contact your dentist immediately.

What are the potential effects after wisdom tooth removal?

Healing from wisdom teeth removal typically takes a few days to a week. Here are some essential aftercare tips to ensure a smooth recovery:

1) Post-op pain and swelling

After wisdom teeth extraction, it's normal to experience some pain and swelling as your body heals. The area around the removed tooth may feel sore, and you might notice mild to moderate swelling in your cheeks and jaw. This usually peaks within the first 48 hours and then gradually improves over the next few days. To help with discomfort, your dentist may recommend pain relievers, cold compresses, and resting your mouth by eating soft foods.

Swelling and soreness are part of the healing process, and keeping the area clean is important to prevent infection. Avoid using straws, spitting forcefully, or eating hard, sticky foods, as these can slow healing. Most people feel much better after a week, but if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your dentist for further care.

2) Minimal mouth opening

After wisdom teeth extraction, you might find it hard to open your mouth fully, this is called trismus, or jaw stiffness. It happens because the muscles around your jaw become swollen and tight after the surgery, especially if your wisdom teeth were impacted or difficult to remove. This can make talking, eating, and even brushing your teeth uncomfortable for a few days. The stiffness is usually at its worst in the first few days after surgery but should slowly improve as the swelling goes down.

To help loosen your jaw, try gentle jaw exercises, such as slowly opening and closing your mouth a few times a day. Applying a warm compress and massaging the area can also relax the muscles. Stick to soft foods and avoid forcing your mouth open too wide, as this can cause more pain. If the tightness lasts longer than a week or gets worse instead of better, see your dentist for further advice.

3) Bad breath

Bad breath can be especially noticeable in individuals with partially erupted wisdom teeth, as these areas are difficult to clean properly. This condition can arise from various factors, including inadequate oral hygiene, smoking, dry mouth, or underlying health issues. Persistent bad breath can impact one’s self-confidence, making proper oral care essential.

What is the cost of wisdom teeth removal in Singapore?

Wisdom tooth removal
is a common dental procedure, but its cost can vary widely depending on several important factors. The cost of wisdom tooth extraction varies based on the complexity of the procedure. For instance, if the tooth is impacted (partially or fully trapped in the gum or bone), it requires a more complex surgical procedure, which may increase the cost. 

Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs before proceeding. At Dental Designs Clinic, we provide transparent pricing, explain MediSave claims clearly, and tailor treatment plans based on your individual case.

Can I use MediSave for wisdom tooth removal in Singapore?

• In Singapore, Medisave can be used to partially offset the cost of surgical wisdom tooth removal (not simple extractions).

• The claimable amount depends on the procedure’s complexity and MOH’s surgical fee guidelines.

FAQ about wisdom tooth removal

Q. Is wisdom tooth removal painful?

No, the procedure itself is painless due to anesthesia. However, mild discomfort and swelling during recovery are normal and can be managed with medication.

Q. When is the ideal age to remove wisdom teeth?

The ideal time for removal is typically in the late teens or early twenties before the roots fully develop, making extraction and recovery easier.

Q. What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?

If wisdom teeth are left untreated and cause problems, they can lead to pain, infections, misalignment, and even damage to surrounding teeth.

Q. How long is the recovery period?

Most people recover within a few days, but complete healing of the gums may take a few weeks.

Q. Can I use MediSave for wisdom tooth removal in Singapore?

MediSave claims can help cover a portion of the cost for surgical extractions, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for Singaporeans and permanent residents.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth removal is a common and safe procedure that can prevent serious dental issues down the line. If you're experiencing discomfort or suspect your wisdom teeth may be problematic, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist early. Proper removal and aftercare will ensure a smooth recovery, helping you maintain a healthy and pain-free smile.

Ready to book your appointment for a wisdom tooth consultation? Simply leave us a message here and we will be right with you!

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