What is it?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) may need removal when impacted, partially erupted, decayed, or linked to repeated gum infections. We assess with clinical exam and imaging, then plan simple or surgical extraction.
Who needs it?
- Pain or swelling at the back of the jaw
- Food trapping around partially erupted wisdom teeth
- Decay in third molars difficult to restore
- Orthodontic or prosthetic plans requiring clearance
Symptoms
- Localised pain or throbbing at angle of jaw
- Swollen, red gum flap (pericoronitis)
- Bad taste or difficulty opening mouth
- Headache or ear-referred discomfort
Causes
- Lack of space for eruption
- Angulated/impacted position
- Bacterial infection under an operculum
- Caries due to inaccessible cleaning
Benefits
- Removes source of recurrent infection
- Prevents damage to adjacent second molars in select cases
- Relieves chronic pericoronitis cycles
Risks & considerations
- Swelling, bruising, dry socket
- Temporary limited mouth opening
- Rare nerve sensory change with deep lower impactions (discussed pre-op)
- Sinus communication risk with some upper extractions
Treatment process
- Exam and radiograph/OPG as needed
- Medical history and consent
- Local anaesthesia; surgical flap/bone removal if impacted
- Tooth sectioning when required; socket care
- Post-op instructions and review
Recovery
Peak swelling 48–72 hours. Soft diet, no straws/smoking, gentle rinses after 24 hours as advised. Contact clinic for heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain after day three (possible dry socket).
Duration
Simple extractions 20–40 minutes; surgical impactions longer. Healing soft tissue 1–2 weeks; bone remodelling continues longer.
Cost (Bangalore indicative)
₹3,000 – ₹15,000+ per tooth based on difficulty. Indicative Bangalore ranges; confirm at consultation.
Indicative Bangalore ranges for planning only. Final fees confirmed after clinical examination.
Success & outcomes
Most patients recover uneventfully with adherence to post-op care. Difficulty grade predicts surgical time and swelling—not a failure rate metric we quote as universal.
Frequently asked questions
Must all wisdom teeth be removed?
No. Fully erupted, cleanable, symptom-free third molars may be monitored. Removal is advised when pathology or high-risk position is present.
Can kids need wisdom tooth advice?
Teens are often assessed for eruption path. Pediatric guidance from Dr. Prem Kumar R helps with earlier crowding and hygiene while planning future third-molar decisions.
Related treatments
Medically reviewed by Dr. Prem Kumar R, MDS (Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry). Last updated 2026-07-01. Educational references include publicly available guidance from organisations such as the Indian Dental Association (IDA) and American Dental Association (ADA) patient education materials—adapted for general understanding, not as case-specific advice.