Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge — usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience no issues, many face problems such as pain, swelling, infections, or crowding due to lack of space in the jaw. At Aurora Dental Centre, we offer safe and comfortable wisdom tooth extractions to relieve discomfort and protect your oral health.
Not all wisdom teeth need removal, but in many cases, they can cause serious dental complications if left untreated. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth often lead to infections, damage to nearby teeth, gum disease, or cyst formation. By removing them early, we can prevent long-term problems and help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but common signs include jaw pain, swelling, red or tender gums, difficulty opening your mouth, or frequent infections around the back molars. In many cases, your dentist will identify potential problems through X-rays before symptoms even appear. Preventive removal is often recommended if the teeth are impacted or misaligned.
With modern anesthesia and sedation options, the procedure itself is not painful. You may feel some pressure or mild movement during the extraction, but you should not feel sharp pain. After the procedure, some swelling, soreness, or mild discomfort is normal, but this can be managed with pain relievers, ice packs, and following your dentist’s aftercare instructions.
Most patients recover within 3–5 days, but full healing of the gum and bone may take a few weeks. During the first couple of days, you may need to stick to soft foods and avoid strenuous activities. Recovery is usually faster and easier if you carefully follow post-op instructions such as keeping the area clean, avoiding smoking, and not using straws (to prevent dry socket).
While wisdom tooth extraction is a very common and safe procedure, potential complications include dry socket (when the blood clot is dislodged too early), infection, or prolonged swelling. These issues are rare and can usually be prevented with proper aftercare. If you experience severe pain, fever, or unusual swelling, contact your dentist right away for care.
Before the procedure, your dentist will review your medical history and take X-rays to plan the extraction. You may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand, especially if sedation is being used. Arrange for someone to drive you home if you’re receiving sedation. Wearing comfortable clothing and planning for a day or two of rest afterward will also make the process smoother.
