Wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Not everyone needs them taken out, and the decision depends on whether they are causing a problem or are likely to.
When wisdom teeth are usually left alone
If a wisdom tooth has come through fully, sits in a normal position, bites properly against the opposing tooth and can be cleaned like any other tooth, there is generally no reason to remove it. Removing a healthy, functional tooth carries risk without benefit.
When removal is usually recommended
- Impaction. The tooth is blocked by bone or the tooth in front and cannot come through properly.
- Recurrent infection. A partly erupted tooth leaves a flap of gum that traps food and bacteria, causing repeated swelling and pain.
- Decay that cannot be restored. Wisdom teeth sit at the back and are difficult to clean, so decay is common and fillings are harder to place and maintain.
- Damage to the neighbouring tooth. A wisdom tooth pushing at an angle can decay or erode the second molar beside it.
- Cysts or other changes seen on an X-ray around a tooth that has not erupted.
How the decision is actually made
An examination and an X-ray show the position of the roots, how close they sit to the nerve in the lower jaw, and whether there is room for the tooth to come through. That information, together with your symptoms and history, decides whether removal is advisable, whether it can wait, or whether monitoring is enough.
Age matters. Roots are less fully formed in younger patients and recovery is generally quicker, which is why removal is sometimes recommended earlier where a problem is clearly coming.
What removal involves
Straightforward extractions are done under local anaesthetic. More complex cases, particularly impacted lower wisdom teeth, may involve a small incision and sometimes sectioning the tooth so it can be removed in pieces. Swelling and discomfort for a few days afterwards is normal, and your dentist will go through aftercare before you leave.
Symptoms worth getting checked
Pain at the back of the jaw, swollen or bleeding gum behind the last tooth, a bad taste, difficulty opening your mouth fully, or pain that comes and goes over months are all reasons to have the area looked at rather than wait.
Related treatment
You can read more about wisdom teeth removal in Bendigo, or about tooth removal more generally.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for an individual dental assessment.