When To Remove Wisdom Teeth | Symptoms, Stitches, And Recovery Guide

How to Know If Your Wisdom Tooth Needs to Be Removed

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can cause various dental problems when they do not grow in properly. Here's a complete guide to help you understand when wisdom teeth should be removed, whether stitches are necessary, and what to expect after extraction.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed

You should consider wisdom tooth extraction if you have:

•      Impacted wisdom teeth (growing sideways or stuck in the gum)

•      Recurring infections or swelling (pericoronitis)

•      Severe tooth decay in the wisdom tooth or neighboring teeth

•      Gum disease caused by trapped food and bacteria

•      Crowding or misalignment of other teeth

•      Cysts or tumors around the wisdom tooth

•      Orthodontic treatment (to prevent shifting teeth)

When Can Wisdom Teeth Stay

Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed if they:

•      Are fully erupted and properly aligned

•      Can be easily cleaned

•      Do not cause pain or other issues

•      Are not affecting other teeth or bone structure

Do You Need Stitches After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Stitches are usually needed when:

•      The tooth is impacted or under the gum

•      A surgical incision was made to remove the tooth

•      The extraction site is deep or bleeding heavily

•      The lower wisdom tooth was removed (more common for stitches)

No stitches are needed when:

•      The wisdom tooth is fully erupted

•      The extraction is simple and minimally invasive

•      There is minimal bleeding and the socket can heal on its own

Why Might a Dentist Recommend Waiting to Remove a Wisdom Tooth

•      The tooth is not fully developed or still deep in the bone

•      X-ray results are unclear and the dentist may want to monitor growth

•      The tooth is close to nerves or sinuses, increasing surgical risk

•      The patient is in poor health or pregnant

•      No symptoms are present and the dentist may suggest regular observation

How Long Should You Take Painkillers and Antibiotics After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If no stitches were needed (simple extraction):

•      Painkillers: 1 to 2 days or as needed

•      Antibiotics: Usually 3 days (follow your dentist’s instructions)

If stitches were needed (surgical extraction):

•      Painkillers: 2 to 3 days or as needed

•      Antibiotics: 5 to 7 days to prevent infection

Always follow your dentist’s instructions. Do not stop antibiotics early unless advised.

Post-Extraction Care Tips

•      Bite down on gauze for 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure to control bleeding

•      Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws for the first 24 hours

•      Use ice packs to reduce swelling during the first 48 hours

•      Eat soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods

•      If stitches were placed, return for removal in 7 days unless absorbable sutures were used