Wisdom Teeth

Preparation
Procedure
Recovery

Preparation

In the majority of cases, impacted teeth must be removed. Early removal in young adulthood, before problems begin, is recommended. Even if the teeth are not causing any bothersome symptoms, they can eventually lead to a number of problems, including:

• Decay or cavities
• Infection around the crown of the tooth
• Crowding of the teeth
• Resorption of adjacent teeth -- Although there is not enough room, impacted teeth may still try to grow into the mouth. This may injure the roots of nearby teeth and cause early loss of healthy teeth
• Cysts or tumors -- These may develop in the sacs formed by the wisdom teeth

Before you have your wisdom teeth surgically removed, you will meet with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for a consultation. During this visit, he/she will take your medical and dental history, noting any problems that may interfere with your surgery. Your doctor also will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and jaw. In addition, X-rays of your wisdom teeth and neighboring teeth must be taken before surgery. If he/she decides that surgical removal of your wisdom teeth is the best option for you, they will discuss the procedure, explaining the risks and benefits, as well as answering any questions you have. You also will be given specific instructions for what to do before surgery.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007