Wisdom teeth: when they need to come out, and what happens
Medically reviewed by Dr. Atoshe Islam7 November 2026
A wisdom tooth doesn't always need to come out. If it isn't causing problems, it is usually left in place and watched at check-ups.
Does a wisdom tooth always need to come out?
When do they cause problems?
Wisdom teeth come through last, usually in the late teens or early 20s. Without enough space to come through fully, one can get blocked by the next tooth or stay partly covered by the gum. This can cause:
- Pain and swelling.
- Infection in the gum.
- Food getting stuck.
- Tooth decay or gum disease.
- An abscess or cyst around the tooth.
An X-ray may be needed to see how the tooth is positioned. The dentist decides whether it needs to come out after an examination.
What happens, step by step
- The area is numbedLocal anaesthesia numbs the area, so you shouldn't feel pain.
- The gum is opened if neededIf gum covers the tooth, a small cut is made.
- The tooth is removedIt comes out whole or in a few pieces.
- Stitches if neededThe dentist will tell you what kind of stitches were used and whether you need to come back.
It usually takes from a few minutes up to 40 minutes, and you go home the same day. A difficult tooth can take longer.
How long does the pain last?
Most people can return to normal activities the next day. For up to two weeks you may have some pain, swelling, a stiff jaw or discomfort when chewing. Pain and swelling should start to improve after 1 or 2 days.
What to do and avoid afterwards
- If you need a painkiller, take it as your dentist advises.
- Eat soft or liquid food until chewing is comfortable.
- Keep the area gently clean as your dentist advises, and don't disturb the blood clot.
- Brush your other teeth carefully, avoiding the wound.
- If it bleeds, press with a clean cloth or cotton wool for at least 10 minutes.
- Avoid hard or crunchy food, and food like nuts and seeds.
- Don't smoke, and avoid very hot drinks.
When to contact us quickly
- Bleeding doesn't stop.
- Pain or swelling is severe, getting worse, or painkillers aren't helping.
- You have pain with a bad taste in your mouth, a fever or you feel unwell.
- Your tongue, lip or chin is numb or tingling.
More questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?
No. If one isn't causing problems, it is usually left in place and checked at regular visits.
Does removal hurt?
The area is numbed first, so it shouldn't hurt. You may feel pressure. If you feel pain, tell the dentist straight away.
How much does it cost?
The chamber consultation fee is Tk 300. Treatment cost is given once the examination shows what is needed.
The right treatment is decided by the dentist after an examination.
Wisdom tooth: Where to get treated
Dr. Atoshe Islam sees patients in Mirpur 14 and Kafrul (Agargaon).
- Mirpur Dental Care, Navy Market (2nd floor), Mirpur 14, Dhaka-1206. 10 AM - 2 PM
- HD Popular Dental Care, 202/5, West Kafrul, Taltola, Agargaon, Dhaka-1207. 5 PM - 9 PM