Wisdom Tooth Removal

X-rays will help to determine if wisdom teeth might cause problems. Some wisdom teeth do not cause problems and do not need to be taken out.

If your wisdom teeth do need to be taken out, you may be given a local anesthetic so you will not feel it -- this is the most common pain relief option. Sometimes, however, if your wisdom teeth are deeply impacted (blocked from coming through), or for other medical reasons, you may be offered a general anesthetic.

Because wisdom teeth are large, the hole where the tooth was may be stitched to help it heal. It is normal for your jaw and gum to be sore, swollen, and bleed for a few days after having a wisdom tooth out.

One possible complication of wisdom teeth removal is a dry socket (alveolar osteitis), when the area where the tooth came from does not heal properly. Bad breath and severe pain from the socket are signs. A dry socket can be successfully treated by your oral health professional.