Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom teeth are the large molars located at the very back of the mouth. Due to the narrow structure of the jaw, these teeth often lack sufficient space to emerge properly, remaining either fully or partially impacted within the bone. In such cases, especially when the tooth is partially erupted, the surrounding gum tissue becomes more prone to infection due to insufficient cleaning.

Additionally, the position of the wisdom teeth may exert pressure on the front teeth, potentially causing cavities, pain, and misalignment. For these reasons, extraction of the wisdom teeth may become necessary.

At MercuryDent Oral and Dental Health Clinic, wisdom tooth operations are among the most frequently performed procedures. A consultation appointment is required for this treatment. After a clinical and radiological examination, detailed information will be provided regarding the planned procedure.

The duration and type of the surgery depend on the tooth’s condition and position. In general, the procedure takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour. Most patients can be discharged the same day after the operation.

Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

No one feels “happy” about getting a tooth pulled—but when it comes to wisdom teeth, the answer is often yes. Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the very back of the dental arch, typically erupting between the ages of 16 and 20. There are usually four—two on the top and two on the bottom. Some people may not develop any wisdom teeth at all due to genetics. In individuals with narrow jaws, the teeth may remain fully or partially impacted due to lack of space.

Partially impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean due to their far-back position, making them more prone to decay, frequent abscesses, and pain. In addition, food particles may get trapped between these teeth and the adjacent second molars, leading to cavities. As they attempt to erupt, wisdom teeth may press on the front teeth, causing crowding and misalignment. In some cases, cyst formation may occur around impacted teeth.

Simple Extraction or Surgical Extraction?

If the tooth has fully erupted, your dentist can perform a simple extraction under local anesthesia. However, if the tooth is impacted, the procedure will involve making an incision under local anesthesia, possibly removing bone to expose the tooth, and then extracting it. Sutures are typically placed after surgical extraction.

What Should I Be Careful About After the Extraction?

• Take the prescribed medications regularly and apply cold compresses for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.

• Avoid lying on the side of the extraction and try to sleep with an elevated pillow.

• Refrain from consuming alcohol, smoking, acidic or very hot beverages.

• For the first 3 days, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, and trouble swallowing may occur. These symptoms generally subside by the end of the third day.

Impacted Tooth Extraction Prices

The cost of wisdom tooth extraction varies depending on the difficulty of the procedure, whether the tooth is impacted, and its position. If you’re experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth, your dentist will provide a price estimate following an examination and jaw X-ray.