Impacted Wisdom Tooth: When to Extract, When to Wait?

Not every wisdom tooth needs extraction

Contrary to popular belief, not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. One that has erupted correctly, bites against an opposing tooth, can be cleaned, and has no surrounding infection can stay.

Situations requiring extraction

• Pericoronitis. Bacteria accumulate under the gum flap of a partially erupted tooth.
• Decay or root resorption on the neighbouring tooth. An angled tooth presses on the molar in front.
• Cyst formation. The sac around an impacted tooth can enlarge and erode the jawbone.
• Orthodontic reasons. Extraction may be requested to gain space or prevent relapse.

When waiting is reasonable

If the tooth is fully within the bone, immobile, shows no lesion and the patient has no complaints, regular monitoring may be enough.

Does age matter?

Yes. In the early twenties, root development is not yet complete, making the procedure easier. Past thirty-five, healing takes longer.