Do You Really Need to Have Your Wisdom Tooth Removed?

The inability of wisdom teeth to fully erupt, their tendency to decay, and the discomfort they cause—often severe enough to disrupt sleep—make them one of the most problematic teeth for many individuals. Because wisdom teeth structurally pose more challenges than others, they must be evaluated with extra care.

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain or similar problems, you may also find our “Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery” page helpful.

Do You Need to Remove Your Wisdom Tooth?

There is a common belief that wisdom teeth should always be removed. Many assume these teeth inevitably decay, disrupt the dental arch, cause severe pain, and are no longer functional—therefore concluding that extraction is necessary.

However, if a wisdom tooth erupts in harmony with the jaw structure, does not disturb neighboring teeth, and can be cleaned effectively, it can serve as a functional chewing tooth. When properly maintained, without causing pain or crowding, there is no medical necessity to extract a healthy and well-positioned wisdom tooth.

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth problems, contact Milim Dental to receive information and book an appointment with our specialist dentists.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt?

Wisdom tooth eruption varies depending on age and physical development. Although commonly referred to as “20-year teeth,” they typically erupt anytime between ages 18 and 30, and sometimes even later.

Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt at the Same Time for Everyone?

Wisdom tooth eruption depends on the individual’s jaw anatomy. If the back of the jaw is narrow or if adjacent teeth block the eruption path, the wisdom tooth may struggle to find space and become impacted. Without sufficient space, the tooth cannot erupt in the correct direction and remains partially or fully embedded in the jawbone.

If there are no structural obstacles—or if previous orthodontic treatment has created space—the wisdom tooth can erupt normally.

Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain?

Partially erupted wisdom teeth often create a pocket between the tooth and gum. This space easily traps food debris and bacteria, increasing the risk of decay. Since toothbrushes cannot reach this area well, plaque accumulates, leading to:

1. Gum infections
2. Tooth and jaw pain
3. Facial swelling
4. Numbness
5. Severe discomfort that disrupts sleep

If not treated promptly, impacted wisdom teeth may develop:

1. Tooth abscess
2. Gum infections
3. Cysts
4. Worsening decay in neighboring teeth

Which Areas of the Body Can Wisdom Tooth Pain Affect?

Wisdom tooth pain can radiate depending on where the tooth is erupting:

1. Upper jaw: Pain may spread to the ear or temple area.
2. Lower jaw: Pain may extend to the neck or cause headaches.

If you experience these symptoms, contact Milim Dental for a professional evaluation.

What Should You Consider Before Having a Wisdom Tooth Removed?

Before deciding on extraction, a dentist must examine the tooth. Only a qualified dental professional should determine whether removal is needed. Extraction may be recommended if:

1. The tooth causes persistent pain
2. It puts pressure on neighboring teeth
3. It causes crowding or misalignment
4. It remains impacted in the jaw
5. An infection, abscess, or cyst has formed

If a wisdom tooth remains in the jaw and cannot erupt, bacteria may accumulate around it, leading to decay or a fluid-filled cyst. This can progress into a serious infection requiring urgent care.

When Should a Wisdom Tooth Be Removed?

Extraction is recommended when:

1. Pain recurs every 6–12 months
2. Gum infections occur around the tooth
3. Only some wisdom teeth erupt, causing bite irregularities
4. The tooth becomes elongated due to lack of an opposing tooth
5. X-rays reveal cyst or tumor formation around the tooth

How Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Different from Regular Tooth Extraction?

If the tooth is not covered by bone and has erupted enough to be grasped, extraction is similar to a standard tooth removal.

However, if the tooth is partially or fully impacted, a minor surgical procedure may be required.

When Is Surgery Necessary for Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Surgical extraction is necessary when:

1. The jawbone is too narrow
2. The tooth is fully or partially impacted
3. Infection or abscess is present
4. A cyst has developed around the tooth

A specialist dentist will evaluate X-rays and determine whether surgery is required.

Post-Surgical Care After Wisdom Tooth Removal

To ensure proper healing, patients should:

1. Follow their dentist’s medication recommendations
2. Avoid hot foods and drinks
3. Chew on the opposite side of the mouth
4. Avoid brushing directly on the extraction site initially
5. Maintain excellent oral hygiene
6. Use cold compresses if swelling occurs

Good oral hygiene habits formed from childhood help ensure healthy wisdom tooth eruption and reduce complications.

For consultations and appointments: Milim Dental — 0224 242 30 33

Dr. Dt. Ali Direnç Ulaşan

Oral, Dental, Maxillofacial Diseases and Surgery Specialist