Wisdom teeth and oral surgery

Last reviewed: 2 November 2026

Wisdom teeth are the back molars that usually come through last. Some cause no problems, while others need treatment or removal. This guide explains common problems, what removal involves and how to look after your mouth afterwards. It is general information only. Your dental practitioner can advise on your situation.

Common problems with wisdom teeth

The Better Health Channel says wisdom teeth usually come through in the late teens or early 20s, that not everyone has them, and that not all wisdom teeth cause problems or need to be removed.

Sometimes a wisdom tooth comes through at an angle and pushes into the gum or the tooth next to it. This is called impaction. Food and bacteria can get trapped around the tooth, which can lead to decay and gum infection (pericoronitis). The Better Health Channel lists signs of infection such as:

• red, swollen gum near the wisdom tooth
• pain, facial swelling or difficulty opening your mouth
• pus from the gum or bad breath
• fever

If you have facial swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth, contact a dentist promptly or seek medical care. See the emergency dentist guide.

When removal may be suggested

X-rays help show whether a wisdom tooth is likely to cause problems. Healthdirect lists reasons a wisdom tooth may need to be removed, including repeated or serious gum infection, tooth decay, a tooth in a position that is hard to clean, or a cyst or other jaw problem. The Better Health Channel says your oral health professional may also suggest keeping watch on a tooth instead.

Healthdirect describes alternatives that may help in some cases, such as pain relief, antibiotics and mouth rinses for infection, or surgery to remove only the gum over the tooth or only the crown of the tooth. Ask your practitioner about the options and their risks.

Who removes wisdom teeth

The Better Health Channel says wisdom teeth can be removed by a dentist, or you may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who has completed additional training. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a dental specialty, and only a practitioner registered as a specialist in that field can use the specialist title. The Dental Board of Australia explains that an oral surgeon is a dentist and dental specialist, while an oral and maxillofacial surgeon has both a dental degree and a medical degree and also treats conditions of the jaw and face. It says both are protected titles. You can ask your practitioner about their training and whether a referral may suit your case.

What happens during removal

Healthdirect says most upper wisdom teeth can be removed under a local anaesthetic, while lower wisdom teeth can be more difficult. If removal is likely to be difficult, a sedative may be offered. The Better Health Channel says a general anaesthetic may be offered if a tooth is deeply impacted or for other medical reasons. Healthdirect says you should usually be able to go home the same day.

Recovery and aftercare

The Better Health Channel says it is normal for your jaw and gum to be sore, swollen and bleed a little for a few days. Your practitioner will give you aftercare instructions. General suggestions include:

• biting on gauze to help stop bleeding
• avoiding excessive rinsing, spitting or drinking through a straw
• holding warm salty water in your mouth after meals, starting no earlier than 24 hours after surgery
• eating soft foods for a few days
• not smoking for 48 hours, and avoiding alcohol and strenuous activity

Healthdirect says you may need up to a week off work.

Possible complications

Healthdirect lists possible complications, including dry socket, where the socket does not heal well, and damage to nerves to the lip and tongue after lower wisdom tooth removal. Healthdirect says nerve damage is usually temporary. Dry socket can cause intense pain within 1 to 3 days of an extraction, and smoking is one risk factor. Contact your dentist if your pain gets worse or you think you may have dry socket.

Costs

Ask for a written quote with item numbers before treatment. If treatment may be done in hospital or under general anaesthetic, ask about hospital, anaesthetist and other fees, and check with your health fund. See health funds and HICAPS.

General information, not medical or dental advice. Speak to a registered dental practitioner about your situation.