By Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy
Wisdom teeth — the third molars — arrive in the late teens or twenties. Sometimes they settle in fine; often there is not enough room, and they cause trouble. Here is how to know if yours need to come out.
A wisdom tooth should be removed when it is impacted, causing pain, infection, decay or crowding. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia so it is not painful during, and most people recover in a few days with simple aftercare.
Signs you may need removal
- Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw.
- Swelling, repeated gum infections or a bad taste.
- Difficulty opening the mouth or cleaning the area.
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth in front of it.
Does it hurt?
During the procedure you feel pressure, not pain, thanks to effective local anaesthesia. A straightforward extraction takes only minutes; impacted teeth take a little longer. Mild soreness and swelling for two to three days afterwards is normal and well controlled with prescribed medication.
Recovery and aftercare
- Bite gently on gauze and rest for the first day.
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft, cool foods; avoid straws and smoking, which can disturb healing.
- Keep the area clean with gentle salt-water rinses from the next day.
Not every wisdom tooth needs removal
If a wisdom tooth is healthy, well-positioned and cleanable, it can stay. Dr. Keerthi will only recommend removal when it is genuinely needed — book a check-up and X-ray to know for sure.
Have a question about your smile?
Book a consultation with Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy, or get free guidance on WhatsApp.