Wisdom teeth are removed when they cause problems or problems are expected: lack of space, a displaced or bone-embedded (impacted) position, recurring inflammation of the surrounding tissue (pericoronitis), decay on the hard-to-reach tooth, pressure on the neighbouring teeth or the risk of a cyst. However, not every wisdom tooth has to come out.
The procedure depends on the position. A fully erupted, upright wisdom tooth can often be extracted like a normal tooth under local anaesthesia. A displaced or bone-embedded tooth requires a small surgical procedure: the dentist or oral surgeon exposes the gum, removes a little bone if necessary, sections the tooth and removes it in pieces, after which the wound is sutured. For several teeth or anxious patients, sedation or general anaesthesia is also possible.
After the procedure, swelling and pain for two to five days are normal. Cooling, rest, soft food and avoiding smoking aid healing; the stitches are removed after about a week. Risks include post-operative bleeding, a wound-healing disorder (dry socket) and – in the lower jaw – proximity to a nerve, which the practitioner assesses beforehand with an X-ray or CBCT.
As a guide (no guarantee), the simple removal of an erupted wisdom tooth in Switzerland costs roughly CHF 150 to 300 per tooth, and a surgical procedure for a displaced position around CHF 400 to 900. Removing all four under general anaesthesia costs considerably more. In cases of illness or accident, insurance may cover part of it under certain conditions.
Important: symptom-free, well-positioned wisdom teeth with enough room can be kept and are then simply monitored regularly.