Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are removed only if they are deemed potentially problematic. There are several reasons a wisdom tooth might be labeled as problematic. Factors that determine whether or not wisdom teeth must be removed include jaw size, crowding, proper occlusion, and impaction. Often, radiographs taken at regular dental cleaning appointments will show when wisdom teeth extraction is recommended.
Extraction can generally be an effective means of preventing crowding of the teeth, impaction of wisdom teeth, red, swollen, or painful gums caused by a partially erupted wisdom tooth, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Depending on the complexity of the extraction, the doctor will use local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation to increase patient comfort during and after the procedure. Generally, the procedure can be performed in the doctor’s office.