Risks and Complications of Wisdom Tooth Removal

Any surgical procedure has risks. The risks of wisdom teeth removal vary depending on your age and the position of the teeth. Risks include:

• Sore joints and muscles. Jaw soreness, bruising, or swelling is normal after removal. Problems with the jaw joint or difficulty opening the mouth fully can also occur. These problems often heal in a week or two. But sometimes they last longer and require treatment.

• Dry socket. After surgery, a blood clot fills the extraction site. A clot that dissolves or dislodges too soon after surgery can cause pain and slow recovery. Dry socket is treated with a special dressing.

• Infection. This is often treated with antibiotics or by draining the infection.

• Side effects of anesthesia. Sedation or general anesthesia can cause nausea, sore throat, and other side effects.

• Sinus problems. The maxillary sinus cavity may be entered during surgery. This can require further treatment.

• Nerve injury. This can cause loss of taste or areas of numbness, tingling, or pain in the teeth, gum, tongue, or lips. In most cases, the nerve heals over time, but further treatment may be needed.

• Weakening of the jaw. If bone has been removed, the jawbone may become more prone to fracture.