Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth: Do you really need to have them removed? Criteria for removal and post-extraction care.
It's not necessary to remove everything.
Wisdom teeth that erupt straight and are well-cleaned can be kept. However, extraction is recommended in the following cases:
- When they grow tilted or horizontally, pushing on the front molars or causing food to get stuck between them and start to decay.
- When they are partially embedded in the gums and cause repeated swelling and pain around them (pericoronitis).
- When they are completely buried in the gums but form a cyst.
If the lower wisdom tooth is close to the nerve canal, it should be checked with a 3D CT scan before planning for extraction. It is safer to have difficult impacted wisdom teeth extracted at a dental clinic or hospital that has an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
The first three days after tooth extraction can be challenging - here's how to manage it.
- The gauze should be kept firmly in place for 2 hours, and it's best to swallow any blood that accumulates on the same day (repeatedly spitting out the blood will prevent proper clotting).
- Avoid straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing (for 3 days): If the blood clot dislodges, it can cause severe pain known as "dry socket."
- Apply cold compresses on the same day, and switch to warm compresses starting two days later.
- If you experience increased pain or a foul odor after 3-4 days, it could be a sign of dry socket or infection, so please visit your dentist.
Frequently asked questions
Does getting wisdom teeth removed make your face shape slimmer?
No, wisdom tooth extraction does not change the contour of the jawbone. It may feel that way because of swelling subsiding.
Can I subtract four at once?
It is possible, but it can be difficult to eat and recover, so usually only one side (upper or lower) is extracted at a time. Please consult with your dentist based on your overall health condition and the difficulty of the procedure.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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