Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to emerge, usually in the late teens or early twenties. They sit at the back of the mouth and often do not have enough space to come in properly. When they are impacted (trapped under the gum or bone), partially erupted, or at an angle, they can cause pain, infection, crowding, damage to neighbouring teeth, or cysts. Not everyone needs them removed—some people have enough space and no problems—but when they cause or are likely to cause issues, removal is often the best option.
At Brown Street Dental, Dr. Sunny Golwala and our team assess your wisdom teeth with a clinical exam and X-rays. We explain whether removal is recommended, what the procedure involves (including sedation if needed), and how to care for yourself afterward. For straightforward cases we can often remove wisdom teeth in the practice; for more complex or impacted cases we may refer you to a specialist. Our goal is to keep you informed, comfortable, and well supported through the process.
The Procedure
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Assessment & X-Ray
Your dentist will:
- Examine your mouth and the area around your wisdom teeth
- Take or review X-rays to see the position of the teeth, roots, and nearby structures
- Explain whether your wisdom teeth are impacted, partially erupted, or likely to cause problems
- Discuss the pros and cons of removal versus monitoring, and answer your questions
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Planning & Anaesthetic
Before the procedure:
- We plan which teeth to remove and whether it can be done in the practice or needs a specialist
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area; sedation (e.g. IV or oral) may be offered for anxiety or more complex removals
- We wait until you are fully numb and comfortable before starting
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Removal
During the removal:
- Simple, fully erupted wisdom teeth may be removed like a standard extraction
- Impacted or partially buried teeth may need a small incision and sometimes sectioning of the tooth
- You may feel pressure but should not feel sharp pain; tell us if you do
- Stitches may be placed to help the gum heal; these often dissolve on their own
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Aftercare & Follow-Up
We will:
- Place gauze and give you clear instructions on biting down, rest, and diet
- Advise on pain relief, swelling (ice packs), and what to avoid (smoking, straws, vigorous rinsing) to reduce the risk of dry socket
- Provide written aftercare and a contact number if you have concerns
- Arrange a follow-up or stitch removal if needed
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Care
Why assessment and removal matter
- ✓Relieves pain and infection caused by impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth
- ✓Prevents damage to neighbouring molars and bone
- ✓Reduces risk of cysts and long-term complications
- ✓Personalised plan—we only recommend removal when it’s in your best interest
- ✓Comfort-focused with local anaesthetic and sedation options when needed
- ✓Clear aftercare to support healing and minimise dry socket risk
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?No. If your wisdom teeth come in straight, have enough space, and you can clean them properly, they may not need to be removed. We recommend removal when they are impacted, causing pain or infection, damaging other teeth, or likely to cause problems in the future. We will explain our recommendation based on your X-rays and exam.
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Does wisdom tooth removal hurt?The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should not feel sharp pain during the procedure. You may feel pressure. Sedation can help if you are anxious. Afterward, some soreness and swelling are normal for a few days; we will advise on pain relief and aftercare to keep you comfortable.
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How long does recovery take after wisdom tooth removal?Initial healing usually takes about a week; swelling and discomfort typically peak in the first 2–3 days and then improve. Full healing of the socket takes several weeks. Following our aftercare (rest, soft diet, no smoking or straws) helps speed recovery and reduces the risk of dry socket.
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What is dry socket and how can I avoid it?Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket is lost too early, exposing the bone. It can cause strong pain a few days after removal. You can reduce the risk by not smoking, avoiding straws and vigorous rinsing, and following our diet and activity advice. If you develop severe pain, contact us so we can help.
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Can I have all four wisdom teeth removed at once?Yes. Many people have all four removed in one appointment under local anaesthetic with or without sedation. Sometimes we recommend doing one side at a time so you can chew on the other side during recovery. We will recommend the best approach for your case and comfort.
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Will I be referred to a specialist?Simple or straightforward wisdom teeth can often be removed in the practice. Deeply impacted teeth, or those very close to nerves or sinuses, may be referred to an oral surgeon for removal in a hospital or specialist setting. We will explain this at your assessment and arrange referral if needed.
Worried about wisdom teeth or experiencing pain at the back of your mouth? Contact Brown Street Dental to book an assessment.