Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. For some individuals, these teeth can become impacted, meaning they fail to emerge fully or properly from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of complications, such as pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. In such cases, oral surgery is often necessary to resolve the issue. This article will explore the reasons why oral surgery might be required for impacted wisdom teeth and what you can expect from the procedure.

What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth do not have enough space to emerge from the gums or grow at the correct angle. This can happen for several reasons, such as:
- Limited space in the jaw: The jaw may not be large enough to accommodate all four wisdom teeth.
- Angled growth: Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, toward neighboring teeth, or even at an angle that causes them to push against other teeth or the jawbone.
- Partial eruption: Sometimes, the tooth partially breaks through the gum, creating a flap of tissue that can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection.
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they may remain embedded in the jawbone or under the gums, causing discomfort, swelling, or even infection. In severe cases, they can lead to other dental issues, such as cysts or damage to adjacent teeth.
Why is Oral Surgery Often Required?
Oral surgery is typically necessary for impacted wisdom teeth because of the following reasons:
To Prevent or Alleviate Pain
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant pain due to pressure on surrounding teeth or inflamed gums. This discomfort can worsen over time, making it difficult to eat, talk, or maintain oral hygiene. In these cases, removing the impacted wisdom teeth through surgery can provide relief.
To Prevent Infection
As impacted wisdom teeth partially emerge or remain trapped beneath the gumline, they create an environment that is prone to infection. Bacteria can accumulate in the space around the teeth, leading to gum disease or abscesses. Oral surgery is necessary to remove the teeth and prevent recurrent infections.
To Avoid Damage to Adjacent Teeth
If impacted wisdom teeth are left untreated, they can push against neighboring teeth, potentially causing misalignment or damage. This can lead to more extensive dental problems, such as shifting teeth or the need for orthodontic treatment. Surgery helps to prevent such issues by removing the problem teeth.
To Prevent Cysts or Tumors
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jaw. These growths can damage the surrounding bone and tissue. If left untreated, they may require additional surgical intervention. Removal of the impacted wisdom teeth can prevent such complications.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Surgery
The decision to remove impacted wisdom teeth is usually made after a thorough evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon. This evaluation typically includes an X-ray to determine the position of the impacted teeth. If surgery is required, the procedure will generally be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient’s preferences.
Steps in the Procedure:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia numbs the area, while sedation or general anesthesia keeps you relaxed or asleep throughout the surgery.
- Incision and Extraction: The oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue to access the impacted tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Stitches: After the tooth is removed, the surgeon may place stitches to help the gums heal.
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth being removed and their level of impaction.
Conclusion
Oral surgery is often necessary for impacted wisdom teeth due to pain, infection, or potential damage to neighboring teeth. While the idea of surgery can seem daunting, it is typically a safe and effective solution that provides long-term relief and helps maintain oral health. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth may be impacted, consult with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the best course of action and whether removal is the right choice for you.