Wisdom teeth

In case of repeated infections, pain, a tilted or partially erupted tooth, cavities that cannot be repaired, damage to the neighbouring molar or a cyst. A healthy, properly erupted wisdom tooth may stay.

Swelling and pain are usually strongest on day 2 to 3 and then decrease; full recovery takes about a week. If the pain suddenly increases strongly around day 3 to 5, it may be a “dry socket”: contact your dentist.

A simple extraction at the dentist often costs a few tens to a few hundred euros per tooth. A surgical removal by an oral surgeon is more expensive, but after referral is often reimbursed from basic insurance (the deductible applies). Check your policy.

You feel nothing during the extraction thanks to the anaesthesia. Afterwards pain, swelling and a stiff jaw are normal and can usually be relieved well with paracetamol and cooling.

Eat soft and lukewarm for the first days, such as yoghurt, soup and mash. Do not rinse in the first 24 hours, do not suck on the wound, do not use a straw and do not smoke: this reduces the risk of a dry socket.

For a complex procedure or great anxiety, removal under sedation or general anaesthesia is possible, usually at an oral surgeon. Discuss this with your dentist.