Wisdom teeth removal is the most common surgical procedure carried out by oral surgeons. As with any form of surgery, it carries some risks, but fortunately they're quite small.
The risks from surgery to remove wisdom teeth include:
- dry socket – also known as alveolar osteitis, which is described in more detail below
- numbness and partial numbness – this can result from temporary or permanent nerve damage, which is described in more detail below
- infection – you should visit your dentist if you think that the extraction site has become infected
- bleeding (haemorrhage) – also visit your dentist if you're bleeding heavily at the site of extraction
Dry socket
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is one of the most common complications of wisdom tooth removal. It occurs when a blood clot fails to develop in the tooth socket, or if the blood clot becomes dislodged or disappears. This can happen three to five days after surgery.
The empty socket causes an aching or throbbing pain in your gum or jaw, which can be intense. There may also be an unpleasant smell or taste from the empty tooth socket.
You're more at risk of developing dry socket if:
- you don't follow your dentist’s instructions after the extraction
- you're a smoker
- you've had the condition before
- you're over 25 years old
- the extraction was complicated
If you look into the socket, you might be able to see the exposed bone, rather than a blood clot. Your dentist may cover the socket with a medicated dressing, which may be removed and replaced frequently until the socket heals.
There's evidence to suggest that using a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine (an antiseptic) can reduce the likelihood of developing dry socket. Before using mouthwash, always read the manufacturer’s instructions or ask your dentist for advice.
Numbness and partial numbness
A small number of patients who have their wisdom tooth removed are affected by numbness and partial numbness due to nerve damage. This can occur when the nerves closest to the root of the tooth are bruised or damaged during surgery.
There may be a temporary loss of feeling to the front of your tongue, lower lip or the side of your mouth where the tooth was removed. This could mean that you can't feel pain, touch or a change in temperature in this area.
Numbness and partial numbness usually lasts for a few weeks or months, although in rare cases it can be permanent if the nerve has been severely damaged.
