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Dr. Anna Beattie explains the most common questions about wisdom tooth extraction, including how long recovery usually takes, what foods are safe to eat, and the best ways to care for your mouth so you can heal quickly and comfortably.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Dr. Anna Beattie explains the most common questions about wisdom tooth extraction, including how long recovery usually takes, what foods are safe to eat, and the best ways to care for your mouth so you can heal quickly and comfortably.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure where one or more wisdom teeth, which are the third set of molars at the back of the mouth, are removed by a dentist or oral surgeon.
It is one of the most common dental treatments in Ireland and around the world.
Many people ask questions such as "Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?" or "How long does it take to recover after wisdom teeth removal?"
Understanding what to expect, including the healing time and aftercare, can make the process much less stressful.
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Dr. Anna Beattie Discusses Treatments For Wisdom Tooth Infection
Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery
Dr. Anna Beattie Discusses Treatments For Wisdom Tooth Infection
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction is the process of healing in the days and weeks following the removal of one or more wisdom teeth.
Most patients recover enough to return to normal activities within one to two weeks, although complete healing inside the gum and bone can take longer.
In the first few days, it is normal to have swelling, soreness, and stiffness in the jaw.
Eating and chewing may feel uncomfortable, so dentists usually recommend sticking to soft foods.
Painkillers and plenty of rest can help make this stage easier to manage.
By the third or fourth day, pain and swelling usually begin to ease. The jaw feels less tight, making it easier to open the mouth and talk.
Most people find that by the end of the first week, discomfort is minimal and eating and speaking are much easier.
Although many patients feel back to normal within one to two weeks, complete healing takes longer.
The gum tissue may take several weeks to recover completely, and the socket where the tooth was removed can take up to six months to fill in with new bone.
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How Much Do Tooth Extractions Cost?
Non-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cost:
A simple tooth extraction is €150.
If it has to be surgically removed by the oral surgeon, the price is €350 per tooth.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cost:
The price for wisdom tooth extraction is a €350 per single lower wisdom tooth.
More detail on our prices can be found on our tooth extraction price list page.
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Wisdom Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Wisdom tooth extraction aftercare is the set of steps you follow to protect your mouth and help it heal after wisdom tooth extraction.
Good aftercare reduces the risk of complications and makes recovery faster and more comfortable.
Most patients want to know what they should and shouldn’t do after surgery, especially in the first few days.
Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Carried Out In The Dental Surgery
Fully Registered Oral Surgeons With Private Medical Insurance
Tooth Extraction Includes Wisdom Tooth Extraction Also (if necessary)
We Offer Oral Sedation If You Are Nervous
We Will Make Your Experience As Comfortable And Painless As Possible
Remove A Decaying Or Impacting Tooth Or Teeth
Available in both our Dublin (Red Cow), Dublin 2 (Aungier Street), Limerick and Galway clinics
Local Or IV Sedation Available
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure
- Tailored Treatment
- Surgical Tooth Extractions
- Problems With Wisdom Teeth
- The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
- Potential Wisdom Tooth Extraction Complications and When to Seek Help
- Aftercare Instructions to Follow
- More Information
Tailored Treatment
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Tailored Treatment
If you are a particularly nervous patient we can also offer you oral sedation or IV sedation.
We can also advise you on the best treatment to replace any missing teeth.
Our most popular option for replacing missing teeth is dental implants, whereby single or multiple teeth can be replaced.
Surgical Tooth Extractions
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Surgical Tooth Extractions
Surgical extractions are done by our oral surgeons. These extractions may be slightly complicated due to various reasons.
For example, teeth with curved roots or teeth buried under the gums may cause complications.
However, these will not be a problem for our fantastic oral surgeons who will keep you pain free and relaxed.
Problems With Wisdom Teeth
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Problems With Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth tend to erupt from the age of 17 to early twenties.
Not everyone has all four wisdom teeth and some people may only have 1 or 2 wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth can cause problems when erupting through the gums by causing food traps which, in turn, can cause infection and bad breath.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
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The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Process
First, the oral surgeon will administer local anaesthesia to numb the area around the tooth.
They may also provide sedation to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure.
The surgeon then makes an incision in the gum tissue and carefully extracts the wisdom tooth.
Afterwards, they clean the extraction site and may place dissolvable stitches if needed. After treatment, we provide patients with post-operative instructions.
Potential Wisdom Tooth Extraction Complications and When to Seek Help
Potential Wisdom Tooth Extraction Complications and When to Seek Help
Complications after wisdom tooth extraction are problems that go beyond the typical side effects of healing.
While most patients recover smoothly, issues such as dry socket, infection, or prolonged bleeding sometimes occur.
Knowing the warning signs and when to contact your dentist or oral surgeon is an integral part of safe recovery.
Here are the main complications to be aware of and when you should seek professional help:
Complication | Description | When to Seek Help |
Dry socket | A dry socket happens when the protective blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged or fails to form, leaving bone and nerves exposed. | If you have severe pain lasting more than a few days after extraction, especially if it spreads to the ear or jaw, contact your dentist or oral surgeon. |
Prolonged bleeding | Some bleeding is normal after wisdom tooth extraction, but it should reduce within a few hours. Heavy or continuous bleeding may indicate a complication. | If bleeding continues heavily after firmly biting on gauze for about 20 minutes, call your oral surgeon. |
Infection | Infection may develop at the surgical site and is often marked by worsening swelling after two to three days, pus, a foul taste in the mouth, or fever. | If you notice any of these symptoms, seek prompt treatment from your dentist. |
Numbness and/or tingling | Temporary numbness or tingling in the lower lip, tongue, or cheek may occur due to anaesthetic or irritation of nearby nerves. | If numbness does not wear off within a few hours, or if it becomes worse, contact your dentist for advice. |
Aftercare Instructions to Follow
Aftercare Instructions to Follow
Here are the most important aftercare instructions to follow after wisdom tooth removal:
General aftercare | General aftercare after wisdom tooth extraction includes avoiding rinsing for the first 24 hours so that a protective blood clot can form. Rest as much as possible, avoid strenuous activity, and do not smoke or drink alcohol during the early healing stage. |
Pain management | Pain management is important after wisdom tooth removal. Take prescribed or recommended painkillers as directed, starting before the anaesthetic wears off and continuing for a couple of days as needed. |
Bleeding control | Bleeding is managed by placing clean gauze over the extraction site and biting down firmly for about twenty minutes. This can be repeated if necessary until the bleeding slows. |
Swelling reduction | Swelling can be reduced by applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek at intervals during the first 24 to 48 hours. Keeping your head elevated when resting also helps limit swelling. |
Oral hygiene | Oral hygiene should be maintained carefully after wisdom tooth extraction. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site for the first day. From the second day, rinse with warm salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash three to five times daily. |
Eating and drinking | Eating soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies is recommended for the first few days. Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and hard or crunchy foods that might disturb the healing site. |
Follow-up care | Follow-up care usually involves dissolvable stitches, which disappear naturally within two to three weeks. Continue with gentle but thorough oral hygiene to support full recovery. |
More Information
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Commonly Asked Questions
What are the Side Effects Of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Most side effects after wisdom tooth removal are mild and temporary.
Swelling, soreness, and jaw stiffness usually improve within the first week, while bruising and numbness often fade quickly.
Any bleeding should settle within the first 24 hours, and general discomfort typically eases after a few days.
If symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected, it is best to contact your dentist for advice. Here are some of the most common side effects you may experience:
- Swelling - Swelling is a normal response after wisdom tooth extraction and usually peaks within two to three days. It gradually reduces as the healing process continues.
- Pain - Pain is expected after wisdom teeth removal because of nerve exposure and the body’s natural healing response. It is usually mild to moderate and manageable with painkillers. Severe or increasing pain is less common and should be checked by a dentist.
- Jaw stiffness - Jaw stiffness is common after wisdom tooth extraction and can make it difficult to open the mouth fully. It usually improves within a week, although in some cases it can take a little longer.
- Bleeding - Mild bleeding or oozing is common during the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth removal. Heavy or prolonged bleeding is not typical and should be reviewed by a dentist.
- Numbness - Temporary numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks may occur, particularly if several teeth are removed. It usually fades within a few hours as the anaesthetic wears off.
- Bruising - Some patients notice bruising on the cheek or jawline after wisdom tooth extraction. This is harmless and usually clears within a week.
- Food trapping - Food particles can sometimes get caught in the healing socket, especially after lower wisdom tooth removal. This improves typically as the gum closes and the area heals.
- Mild fever - A slight rise in body temperature may occur as part of the healing response after surgery. A dentist or oral surgeon should always assess a persistent or high fever.
- Mild discomfort - General discomfort and irritation are common for several days after wisdom tooth extraction. Most patients notice significant improvement within a week.
Why would I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth may not have enough space to fully erupt into the mouth as they grow right at the very back where space is limited.
This can lead to infections of the gum around a wisdom tooth, or make it difficult to clean leading to decay.
In some situations, this may be very painful. Please note that we do cater for dental emergencies at 3Dental, and we'll do our best to fit you in at short notice.
What is IV sedation?
IV sedation is the use of a medication in the back of your hand or arm which relaxes you completely and makes a procedure such as wisdom tooth removal a pleasant experience.
What is an oral surgeon?
An oral surgeon is someone who specialises in removing difficult teeth.
Does my medical insurance cover this?
If you have medical insurance, most policies will contribute towards the cost of wisdom tooth removal. This varies from one company to another, and you would be best contacting them directly to find out if this is the case with your policy.
What is an impacted tooth?
A tooth which has grown at an unusual angle, or has no space to erupt into the mouth is said to be impacted.
Do you also offer wisdom tooth extraction?
Yes, we will examine you and make our recommendations on a case by case basis.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
A routine, simple extraction of a single tooth would normally require a painkiller for a day or two afterwards.
More difficult surgical extractions (required when teeth are badly broken or impacted) will result in swelling or bruising which can last 3-5 days. These would also generally require painkillers for a few days afterwards.
Does having a tooth out hurt?
Having a tooth out is totally painless. Modern anaesthetics and techniques make this possible.
During the process you will feel pushing and pressure, but no more than that.
You will experience some bleeding, bruising and swelling in the first few days after surgery so be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations closely when it comes to pain management, smoking, cleaning, eating and drinking.
How do you take out an impacted or broken-down tooth and how long will the procedure take?
If a tooth is impacted or badly broken down then it often requires a small surgical procedure to remove it.
We need to gently lift back the gum and often then cut the tooth into some pieces.
This is done using a drill and feels very similar to having a filling. At the end of the procedure dissolvable stitches are placed to put the gum back in place.
It usually takes about 30 minutes to surgically remove one tooth.
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
The procedure itself is not painful because local anaesthetic numbs the area.
Afterwards, it is normal to have some swelling, stiffness, and discomfort, but painkillers usually keep this under control.
Most patients find the pain improves steadily over the first week.
Is swelling normal after wisdom tooth removal?
Yes, swelling usually peaks two to three days after surgery and then gradually reduces.
Will I need time off work?
It is not completely essential but most people find it easier to recover if they have 1 or 2 days off work following the procedure.
What can I eat following the procedure?
You will find that it is difficult to eat hard or chewy foods for several days following the procedure.
Soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are best in the first few days.
Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and hard or crunchy foods until healing improves.
I am very anxious about the procedure. Is there anything that might help?
A lot of patients opt to be sedated while they are having their surgical procedure carried out. We offer intravenous sedation to patients having surgical procedures.
Intravenous sedation, which is administered through a vein in your arm, will make you feel much more relaxed and helps relieve anxiety.
If you would like to have sedation, please discuss this with us in advance because we need to book extra time for your appointment.
Can I get my tooth extracted near me?
Yes! We provide tooth extractions in each of our clinics - Dublin (Red Cow), Dublin 2 (Aungier Street), Limerick and Galway.
Book your free consultation today! We look forward to welcoming you in person soon :)
Do broken wisdom teeth always need to be removed?
What are the different treatment options if my wisdom tooth (or teeth) are broken, chipped or cracked?
Ultimately, we would approach chipped, cracked and broken wisdom teeth the same way.
Extraction is a good option because your wisdom tooth is a non-functional tooth.
Your dentist will perform an examination, including an X-ray and be able to advise you after an assessment.
How long after an extraction can a patient have a filling?
It varies depending on the relationship between the tooth that is to be filled and the extraction site.
Patients should consider factors such as the healing progress and soreness when opting for a filling.
Generally, a week will be enough time, but you should take the advice of your treating dentist.
How many wisdom teeth do people have?
Most adults have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. Some people may have fewer, none at all, or in rare cases, more than four.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are usually removed to prevent overcrowding, misalignment, decay, gum disease, or infection.
Extraction can also protect nearby teeth and make oral hygiene easier.
At what age are wisdom teeth usually removed?
They are most often removed in the late teens or early twenties, when problems are most likely to develop.
Regular check-ups help identify potential issues early.
Why does my jaw feel stiff after wisdom tooth removal?
Jaw stiffness is common in the first few days and usually improves within a week as the swelling goes down.
Is bleeding normal after extraction?
Mild bleeding or oozing often happens in the first 24 hours.
If bleeding continues heavily after firmly biting on gauze for about 20 minutes, contact your dentist.
Can wisdom tooth removal cause numbness?
Temporary numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks can occur.
It usually fades within hours, but persistent numbness should be checked by a dentist.
What should I do after wisdom tooth extraction?
Rest as much as possible, avoid smoking and alcohol, and do not rinse for the first 24 hours so that a blood clot can form.
From the second day, rinse gently with salt water and keep your mouth clean.
How do I manage pain after wisdom tooth removal?
Take painkillers as prescribed, starting before the anaesthetic wears off, and continue as needed for a few days.
Do I need follow-up care after wisdom tooth extraction?
If dissolvable stitches are used, they usually disappear in two to three weeks.
Continue with gentle brushing and rinsing to support healing.
What is a dry socket after wisdom tooth extraction?
A dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot is lost, exposing bone and nerves.
It can cause severe pain that radiates to the ear or jaw.
When should I worry about bleeding?
Bleeding should reduce within a few hours.
If it continues heavily after applying gauze for 20 minutes, contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
How do I know if I have an infection after wisdom tooth removal?
Signs of infection include swelling that worsens after two to three days, pus, a bad taste in the mouth, or fever.
If you notice these, see your dentist promptly.
Is numbness or tingling after wisdom tooth extraction normal?
Temporary numbness or tingling may occur due to anaesthetic or nerve irritation.
It normally fades within hours, but if it persists or worsens, seek professional advice.
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