Wisdom tooth extraction

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Results

By Mayo Clinic staff

You probably won't need a follow-up appointment after a wisdom tooth extraction if:

  • You don't need stitches removed
  • No complications arose during the procedure
  • You don't experience persistent problems, such as pain, swelling, numbness or bleeding — complications that might indicate infection, nerve damage or other problems

If complications develop, your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss appropriate treatment options with you.

What you can expect
References
  1. Wisdom teeth. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. http://www.aaoms.org/wisdom_teeth.php. Accessed Feb. 29, 2012.
  2. Marciani RD. Third molar removal: An overview of indications, imaging, evaluation, and assessment of risk. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:1.
  3. Bagheri SC, et al. Extraction versus nonextraction management of third molars. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:15.
  4. Haug RH, et al. Evidenced-based decision making: The third molar. Dental Clinics of North America. 2009;53:77.
  5. Tintinalli JE, et al. Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.; 2011. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=6388295. Accessed Feb. 29, 2012.
  6. Kandasamy S, et al. The wisdom behind third molar extractions. Australian Dental Journal. 2009;54:284.
  7. Postextraction problems. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dental_disorders/dental_emergencies/postextraction_problems.html. Accessed Feb. 29, 2012.
  8. Farish SE, et al. General technique of third molar removal. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America. 2007;19:23.
  9. Carr AB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 9, 2012.
  10. Mettes DTG, et al. Interventions for treating asymptomatic wisdom teeth in adolescents and adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003879.pub2/abstract. Accessed March 22, 2012.
MY01212 April 11, 2012

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