Visdomstænder
Treatment
Expert assessment and safe, comfortable extraction of problematic wisdom teeth using modern surgical techniques and advanced imaging.
About the treatment
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. Most adults develop four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth, though some people develop fewer or none at all. Because human jaws have gradually become smaller through evolution, there is often insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, leading to a range of problems that make evaluation and frequently extraction necessary. When a wisdom tooth cannot fully emerge through the gum, it is described as impacted. Impaction occurs in varying degrees: a fully impacted tooth remains completely embedded in the jawbone, a partially impacted tooth breaks through the gum only partway, and a soft-tissue impacted tooth is covered by gum but not bone. The angle of impaction also matters, as wisdom teeth can be tilted toward the adjacent molar (mesioangular), away from it (distoangular), horizontal, or vertical. Problematic wisdom teeth can cause a cascade of issues. Partial eruption creates a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria, leading to a painful infection called pericoronitis. Pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can damage the roots of the neighbouring second molar, cause crowding, or develop into a dentigerous cyst that destroys surrounding bone. Even wisdom teeth that appear symptom-free may harbour deep pockets of bacteria that contribute to chronic gum disease. Hos BestDent, every wisdom tooth case begins with thorough imaging, including panoramic X-rays and cone-beam CT scans when needed, to map the exact position of the tooth, its roots, and its relationship to critical structures like the inferior alveolar nerve and the maxillary sinus. This detailed planning ensures the safest, most predictable outcome with the shortest recovery time.
We can make your smile look great
Expert assessment and safe, comfortable extraction of problematic wisdom teeth using modern surgical techniques and advanced imaging.
Keep your teeth healthy
A panoramic X-ray provides an overview of all four wisdom teeth, their positions, and their relationship to neighbouring teeth and structures. For complex cases, particularly lower wisdom teeth near the inferior alveolar nerve, a cone-beam CT scan creates a three-dimensional map that guides surgical planning and minimises risk.
The benefits of our dental treatments
- Eliminates the pain, swelling, and infection caused by problematic wisdom teeth
- Protects adjacent second molars from root damage, decay, and bone loss
- Removes the risk of dentigerous cysts and other pathological changes around impacted teeth
- Prevents crowding and shifting that can undermine orthodontic treatment results
- Improves oral hygiene by removing teeth that are difficult or impossible to clean properly
- Resolves chronic bad breath caused by bacteria trapped under partially erupted gum flaps
- Reduces the overall bacterial load in the mouth, benefiting gum health throughout
- Younger patients experience faster healing and fewer complications than older patients
- Modern surgical techniques and anaesthesia make the procedure safe and comfortable
- Prevents future emergency situations by addressing known problems proactively
Hvem er det for?
- Young adults between 17 and 25 whose wisdom teeth are beginning to emerge or cause discomfort
- Patients with impacted or semi-impacted wisdom teeth confirmed on X-ray
- Those experiencing recurrent infections or swelling around a partially erupted wisdom tooth
- Patients whose wisdom teeth are pushing against adjacent molars and causing damage
- Those planning orthodontic treatment where wisdom teeth may compromise alignment results
- Patients with cavities in wisdom teeth that are too difficult to restore effectively
- Those with cysts or pathological changes associated with an unerupted wisdom tooth
- Patients whose wisdom teeth are impossible to keep clean due to their position
- Those experiencing jaw stiffness, pain, or difficulty opening the mouth due to wisdom tooth pressure
- Adults of any age whose wisdom teeth have become symptomatic for the first time
Behandlingsproces
Omfattende Billeddiagnostik and Evaluation
A panoramic X-ray provides an overview of all four wisdom teeth, their positions, and their relationship to neighbouring teeth and structures. For complex cases, particularly lower wisdom teeth near the inferior alveolar nerve, a cone-beam CT scan creates a three-dimensional map that guides surgical planning and minimises risk.
Behandling Planlægning and konsultation
Your oral surgeon discusses the findings, explains the recommended approach for each tooth, and answers all your questions. The discussion covers anaesthesia options, what to expect during and after the procedure, recovery timeline, and any specific risks related to your anatomy. You receive clear pre-operative instructions.
Bedøvelse and Sedation
Local anaesthesia ensures the surgical site is completely numb. For patients with dental anxiety or those having multiple teeth extracted, conscious sedation is available to keep you relaxed and comfortable throughout. Your vital signs are monitored continuously during sedation procedures.
Soft Tissue and Bone Management
For impacted teeth, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the tooth. If bone covers part of the tooth, a controlled amount is carefully removed using precision instruments. The approach is planned to remove the minimum amount of tissue necessary while providing adequate access.
Tooth Extraction or Sectioning
Fully erupted wisdom teeth may be removed in one piece using elevators and forceps. Impacted teeth are typically sectioned into smaller pieces that can be removed through a smaller opening, reducing trauma to the surrounding bone and tissue. This sectioning technique is a key factor in faster, more comfortable recovery.
Socket Management and Suturing
The extraction site is thoroughly cleaned and inspected. Any sharp bone edges are smoothed, and the socket may be packed with a collagen or bone graft material to promote healing. The gum is repositioned and closed with dissolvable sutures that typically fall out on their own within 7 to 10 days.
Immediate Post-Operative Care
You receive gauze to bite on for initial bleeding control and a detailed written aftercare guide. Prescriptions for pain management, anti-inflammatory medication, and antibiotics (if indicated) are provided. Your surgeon explains proper wound care, dietary restrictions, and warning signs that would require a follow-up call.
Genopretning Opfølgning
A follow-up appointment is scheduled within one to two weeks to check healing, remove any non-dissolvable sutures if used, and address any concerns. Most patients return to normal activities within three to five days, with complete tissue healing occurring over three to four weeks.
Ofte Stillede Spørgsmål
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
The extraction itself is painless due to effective local anaesthesia, and sedation options are available for anxious patients. After the procedure, you can expect some swelling, discomfort, and stiffness for three to five days, which is well-managed with prescribed pain medication and ice packs.
Does every wisdom tooth need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that have erupted fully, are properly aligned, can be cleaned effectively, and are not causing any problems can be kept. However, regular monitoring with X-rays is recommended because problems can develop at any age. Your dentist will advise based on your specific situation.
What is the best age to have wisdom teeth removed?
The ideal time is typically between ages 17 and 25, when the roots are not fully developed and the surrounding bone is less dense. Younger patients generally experience easier extractions, faster healing, and fewer complications. However, wisdom teeth can be safely removed at any age when problems arise.
How long is the recovery after wisdom tooth extraction?
Most patients can return to work or school within two to three days for simple extractions and three to five days for surgical cases. Swelling peaks around day two to three and then steadily improves. Complete soft tissue healing takes about three to four weeks, while full bone healing takes several months.
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Yes, removing all four in a single session is very common and often recommended so you only go through the recovery process once. This is especially practical when sedation is used. Your surgeon will confirm this approach is appropriate based on the complexity of your specific case.
What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves prematurely, exposing the bone. It causes a deep, throbbing ache starting two to four days after extraction. Avoid smoking, drinking through straws, vigorous rinsing, and spitting for the first few days to protect the clot.
What can I eat after wisdom tooth extraction?
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days: yoghurt, smoothies (without a straw), mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soup (not hot), and ice cream. Gradually reintroduce firmer foods as comfort allows, typically after five to seven days. Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or very hot foods until healing is well established.
Can an impacted wisdom tooth cause headaches or ear pain?
Yes. An impacted wisdom tooth can refer pain to the ear, temple, and even the neck due to shared nerve pathways. Pressure from an erupting or impacted tooth can also trigger muscle tension in the jaw and surrounding area, contributing to headaches. These symptoms often resolve completely after extraction.
What are the risks of wisdom tooth surgery?
Common temporary effects include swelling, bruising, limited mouth opening, and discomfort. Rare complications include dry socket, infection, and temporary numbness of the lip or tongue if the inferior alveolar nerve is near the tooth roots. Detailed 3D imaging hos BestDent helps minimise these risks through precise surgical planning.
Is it dangerous to leave impacted wisdom teeth in?
Leaving a problematic impacted wisdom tooth untreated can lead to recurring infections, damage to the adjacent molar, cyst formation, and progressive bone loss. Even asymptomatic impacted teeth should be monitored regularly, as problems can develop silently. Your dentist will recommend extraction only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
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