### What are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually appear in your late teens or early twenties. While they can be beneficial if they are healthy and properly aligned, they often cause problems and need to be removed. ### Why Might They Need Removal? 1. **Misalignment**: Wisdom teeth can grow in various directions, including horizontally, or angled towards or away from other molars. This can crowd or damage nearby teeth, jawbone, or nerves. 2. **Impaction**: Sometimes, wisdom teeth don't fully emerge from the gums, becoming trapped in the jawbone or soft tissue. This can lead to infections, pain, swelling, and other issues. 3. **Partial Eruption**: Partially erupted wisdom teeth create an opening for bacteria, leading to infections, tooth decay, and gum disease. ### What to Expect - **Consultation**: Your dentist may take X-rays to check the position of your wisdom teeth and might refer you to an oral surgeon. - **Extraction**: The ease of removal depends on the tooth's position and development stage. Fully erupted teeth are easier to remove, while impacted teeth may require more complex procedures. - **Anesthesia**: Local anesthetic is used to numb the area. Sedatives like nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, or intravenous sedatives may also be used to manage anxiety. ### Recovery - **First 24 Hours**: Follow your dentist's instructions for care to manage pain and swelling. - **After 24 Hours**: Continue to follow care instructions to ensure proper healing. ### Costs The cost of wisdom tooth extraction varies. Simple extractions can be as low as $99 per tooth, while impacted teeth can cost between $230 and $340 or more. Check with your dentist and insurance provider for specific costs.