Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to grow in your mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people do not have any issues, many patients experience pain, swelling, infection, or crowding because there is not enough space in the jaw.
Wisdom teeth are often discussed early because they are one of the most common reasons patients need minor oral surgery. Many patients do not realize there is a problem until symptoms begin.
By the end of this post, you will understand everything you need to know about wisdom teeth, such as what they are, what problems they can cause, who is a good candidate for removal, what the procedure is like and how long each step takes, how recovery works, and what to expect in terms of cost and insurance coverage.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?¹
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two on the top and two on the bottom. However, some people may have fewer, more or none at all.
These teeth often do not have enough space to grow properly. When this happens, they can become impacted. Impacted means the tooth is stuck under the gum or grows at an angle instead of coming in straight.
In some cases, wisdom teeth come in normally and do not need to be removed. However, this is less common.
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?²
Wisdom teeth do not always cause problems, but when they do, the issues can become serious if not treated.
Common problems include:
- Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Swelling of the gums
• Infection around the tooth
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Damage to nearby teeth
• Tooth decay due to difficulty cleaning
• Cysts (fluid-filled sacs)
Impacted wisdom teeth are more likely to cause these problems because food and bacteria can get trapped around them. This can lead to infection and gum disease.
Sometimes, patients may not feel pain right away, but damage can still be happening under the gums.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Wisdom Teeth Removal?³˒⁴
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but many patients benefit from it. A dentist will evaluate your condition using an exam and X-rays.
You may need removal if you have:
• Not enough space in your jaw
• Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth
• Pain, swelling, or infection
• Damage to nearby teeth
• Tooth decay that cannot be easily treated
• Risk of future problems
Is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth if they are not causing pain? The answer is sometimes yes. Some dentists recommend early removal to prevent future complications, especially if the teeth are impacted or difficult to clean.
In some cases, dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth early before the roots fully develop or before they get close to the nerve, since this can make the procedure easier and reduce the risk of complications.
Fig. 1. Panoramic X-ray showing wisdom teeth without fully developed roots. Reproduced from Casey Dental⁷
Who May Not Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?¹
An extraction may not be necessary if:
• Wisdom teeth are fully erupted and in the correct position
• There is enough space in the mouth
• The teeth are easy to clean
• There are no signs of infection, decay, or damage
In these cases, your dentist may recommend monitoring the teeth instead of removing them.
What Is the Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure Like?⁵
What Is Recovery Like After Wisdom Teeth Removal?²
Recovery usually takes about one to two weeks, although most patients start feeling better within a few days.
You may experience:
- Swelling for the first 2–3 days
• Mild to moderate pain
• Limited mouth opening
• Bleeding during the first 24 hours
bruising
During recovery, patients are advised to:
• Eat soft foods such as yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes
• Avoid straws to prevent dry socket
• Avoid smoking
• Avoid string swishing or spitting
• Keep the area clean as instructed
Dry socket is one of the most common complications and happens when the blood clot comes out too early. Following instructions carefully helps prevent this problem. It usually heals faster if instructions are followed carefully.
Fig. 2. Dry socket vs normal healing after tooth extraction. Reproduced from Wellbeing Junction⁸
How Long Do Wisdom Teeth Take to Heal?¹
Initial healing usually takes 1–2 weeks, but complete healing of the bone can take several weeks to a few months.
Swelling and discomfort improve within a few days, while the gums continue to heal over time.
Regular follow-up visits may be recommended to make sure everything is healing properly.
What Is the Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal and Will Insurance Help?⁶
The cost of wisdom teeth removal depends on several factors, such as:
- Number of teeth being removed
• Difficulty (simple vs. impacted teeth)
• Type of anesthesia used
• Need for additional procedures
The cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Fortunately, wisdom teeth removal is usually considered a necessary procedure, not just cosmetic. This means many insurance plans help cover part of the cost.
A consultation is recommended to understand your exact treatment plan, cost, and insurance coverage.
Credits:
Authored by: Omar Halimi
Edited by: Stephanie Diego DDS MPH
References:
- Mayo Clinic Staff, “Impacted wisdom teeth – Symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808.
- NHS, “Wisdom tooth removal,” NHS (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/wisdom-tooth-removal/.
- American Dental Association, “Wisdom Teeth,” ADA (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/wisdom-teeth/
- MouthHealthy, “Wisdom Teeth,” MouthHealthy (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/wisdom-teeth/.
- Delta Dental, “Wisdom Teeth Removal: Step-by-Step Procedure,” Delta Dental (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.deltadental.com/protect-my-smile/procedures/wisdom-teeth-removal/step-by-step-procedure/.
- Delta Dental, “Wisdom Teeth Removal,” Delta Dental (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://www.deltadental.com/protect-my-smile/procedures/wisdom-teeth-removal/.
- Casey Dental, “When Do Wisdom Teeth Show Up on X-Ray?” Casey Dental (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://caseydental.com/when-do-wisdom-teeth-show-up-on-x-ray/.
- Wellbeing Junction, “5 Shocking Pictures of Dry Socket vs Normal Healing,” Wellbeing Junction (accessed 11 May 2026), online: https://wellbeingjunction.com/pictures-of-dry-socket-vs-normal-healing/.