Do wisdom teeth always have to be removed?

Not every wisdom tooth has to be removed. We recommend extraction if it repeatedly causes cavities or gum inflammation or affects the neighboring tooth, and we may simply monitor it if it is well positioned and well cared for. We advise you after checking with an X-ray.

Can impacted wisdom teeth be removed?

Yes. We also treat impacted wisdom teeth that are buried in the gum or lying sideways. Because some are close to the nerve, we check the position of the nerve canal and the root shape with cone-beam CT before planning the extraction. Even difficult impacted wisdom teeth, where there is a risk of damage to neighboring teeth or the nerve, are removed safely and carefully using our accumulated know-how.

If you are afraid of treatment, or when it takes a long time, for example when several teeth are removed at once, conscious sedation may help reduce the burden. Whether it is possible is decided after checking your health at the consultation.

Aftercare after extraction

• For the first day, do not rinse your mouth hard or use a straw. If the blood clot over the wound comes off, it can cause pain.
• Once the anesthesia has worn off, start with lukewarm, soft food.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, strenuous exercise and saunas for a few days.
• If possible, chew on the opposite side.

For other specific precautions, please follow what we tell you at the clinic after the extraction first.

How long do pain and swelling last?

Pain usually fades from about the second or third day, and swelling subsides over about a week. Impacted extractions may take a little longer. If the pain does not fade and continues or gets worse, or if there is an unusual taste or smell from the extraction site, you need to be seen.

What if the bleeding does not stop?

Place clean gauze on the wound and bite down gently for about two hours. A little blood mixed with saliva is normal, but if bright red blood keeps coming after 24 hours, please contact the clinic.

Can my lip or jaw go numb?

When the tooth is very close to a nerve, the area may temporarily feel dull or numb, and in most cases it recovers over time. Rarely, recovery is slow, which is why we check the position of the nerve with CT before extraction to reduce the risk.

Is it covered by health insurance?

When the purpose is to treat a disease such as pain, cavities or inflammation, Korean national health insurance generally applies, and your share of the cost varies with the degree of impaction (simple, complex or complete). Hemostatic agents and collagen plugs to prevent dry socket may be non-covered. Private insurance coverage depends on when you joined and your policy terms, so please check with your insurer.

You need to be seen if…

• Pain does not fade and continues or gradually gets worse
• There is an unusual taste or smell from the extraction site
• Bright red blood keeps coming after 24 hours
• Numbness of the lip or jaw lasts a long time