Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience no problems at all, others develop impacted wisdom teeth that cause significant pain, infection, or damage to neighbouring teeth. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we regularly help patients assess whether their wisdom teeth need to be removed and provide comfortable, professional treatment when extraction is necessary.
Wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary. Many people’s wisdom teeth emerge fully and align properly with no issues. The problems arise when there is not enough space in the jaw for the teeth to come through correctly.
When wisdom teeth cannot emerge properly, they become “impacted.” Impacted wisdom teeth may:
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several complications:
| Complication | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Pericoronitis | Infection and inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth |
| Tooth decay | Partially emerged teeth are difficult to clean properly, increasing cavity risk |
| Gum disease | Bacteria accumulate around impacted teeth, leading to [periodontal disease]gum disease |
| Cysts | Fluid-filled sacs can develop around impacted teeth, potentially damaging the jawbone |
| Crowding | Pressure from emerging wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment |
| Damage to adjacent teeth | An angled wisdom tooth can erode the root or enamel of the neighbouring molar |
Not everyone with wisdom teeth needs to have them removed. Research shows that between 5% and 37% of people never develop a full set of wisdom teeth at all, and many who do experience no symptoms whatsoever.
You should book a dental appointment if you notice any of the following signs:
Early assessment is always preferable to waiting until the pain becomes severe. An X-ray will show the position of your wisdom teeth and allow your dentist to recommend the best course of action before complications develop.
The complexity of wisdom tooth extraction depends on how the tooth is positioned. A straightforward extraction of a fully erupted tooth is a simpler procedure than removing a deeply impacted tooth that is embedded in bone.
1. Consultation and X-ray: Your dentist examines your mouth and takes X-rays to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth.
2. Anaesthesia: A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area completely. Sedation options are available for anxious patients — Dr Ayzaaz Akram is a qualified clinical hypnotherapist and can help patients who experience [dental anxiety]learn more.
3. Extraction: For straightforward cases, the tooth is loosened and removed with forceps. For impacted teeth, a small incision is made in the gum and the tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal.
4. Closure: Dissolvable stitches may be placed to promote healing. A gauze pad is applied to the extraction site to control bleeding and encourage clot formation.
The procedure itself can take as little as five minutes for a simple extraction, or up to 30 minutes for a more complex impacted tooth.
Most patients experience some discomfort and swelling for the first few days after extraction. Full recovery typically takes one to two weeks, though many people feel significantly better within three to four days.
Contact your dentist if you experience severe pain that worsens after two to three days (this may indicate dry socket), excessive bleeding that does not stop with pressure, fever, or difficulty swallowing.
The extraction itself is not painful because the area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic. You will feel pressure but not sharp pain. After the anaesthetic wears off, some discomfort and swelling is normal and can be managed with standard pain relief.
Most people return to normal activities within three to five days. Full healing of the extraction site takes one to two weeks. Stitches, if used, are typically dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
Yes, it is possible and often preferable to remove all wisdom teeth in a single appointment. This means only one recovery period rather than multiple procedures. Your dentist will advise whether this is appropriate based on the complexity of your case.
Wisdom teeth should be monitored from the mid-teens onwards. Early assessment allows your dentist to identify potential impaction before symptoms develop, which often makes treatment simpler.
If you are experiencing pain or swelling at the back of your mouth, or if you want your wisdom teeth assessed, the team at Pure Smiles can help. We provide thorough examinations and comfortable extractions at both of our SW6 practices.
[Book an appointment today]learn more — early assessment prevents complications and keeps treatment straightforward.
