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When to Remove Wisdom Teeth

The following symptoms may indicate that the wisdom teeth have erupted and surfaced and should be removed before they become impacted, in other words, the teeth have surfaced and have no room in the mouth to grow. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

Symptoms may include

• Pain
• Infection in the mouth
• Facial swelling
• Swelling of the gum line in the back of the mouth

Many dentists recommend removal of the wisdom teeth before they are fully developed, usually in the adolescent years,as early removal will help to eliminate problems, such as an impacted tooth that destroys the second molar.

Wisdom tooth extraction involves accessing the tooth through the soft and hard tissue, gently detaching the connective tissue between the tooth and the bone and removing the tooth. Extractions can be performed under local anesthesia.

Following the extraction, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which is a normal part of the healing process. Cold compresses can help decrease the swelling, and your dentist will prescribe medication to help relieve discomfort.