This procedure involves the removal of one or more wisdom teeth (third molars) from the mouth. The extraction is typically done by a dentist or oral surgeon and can be done under local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. The goal of the procedure is to prevent pain,
Impacted wisdom teeth is a condition where the third molars are prevented from erupting into the mouth. This can be caused by a physical barrier, such as other teeth, or when the tooth is angled away from a vertical position. Completely unerupted wisdom teeth usually result in no symptoms, although they can sometimes develop cysts or neoplasms. Partially erupted wisdom teeth or wisdom teeth that are not erupted but are exposed to oral bacteria through deep periodontal pocket, can develop cavities or pericoronitis. Removal of impacted wisdom teeth is advised for the future prevention of or in the current presence of certain pathologies, such as caries, periodontal disease or cysts. Prophylactic (preventative) extraction of wisdom teeth is preferred to be done at a younger age to take advantage of incomplete root development, which is associated with an easier surgical procedure and less probability of complications. However, in recent decades the preventive removal of impacted wisdom teeth has come into question, and some health organizations have issued guidelines calling to only remove impacted wisdom teeth in the case of current issues.