Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Looking for English-speaking dentists in Seoul to remove your impacted wisdom tooth? Our clinic provides stress-free, pain-managed extractions with a focus on patient comfort and fast recovery.

Impacted wisdom tooth removal is a common but essential procedure to prevent pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. Our oral surgeons at Yonsei Heal Dental Clinic perform safe, precise, and comfortable extractions using advanced technology and gentle techniques.

What is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
A wisdom tooth (third molar) becomes “impacted” when it cannot fully erupt due to lack of space, poor angulation, or obstruction by other teeth. Common types of impaction include:

• Mesial Impaction – Tooth angled forward, pushing against the next molar
• Distal Impaction – Tooth angled backward
• Horizontal Impaction – Tooth lying sideways under the gum
• Vertical Impaction – Tooth trapped under gum/bone despite being upright

Why Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removal is Important

• Prevents pain, swelling, and infection (pericoronitis)
• Avoids crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
• Reduces risk of cyst or abscess formation around the tooth
• Protects jawbone and surrounding nerves from long-term damage
• Improves overall oral hygiene by eliminating hard-to-clean areas

Symptoms of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth

• Jaw pain or swelling near the back of the mouth
• Gum tenderness, redness, or bleeding
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Headaches or ear pain
• Difficulty opening the mouth

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Consultation & X-ray – 3D imaging to assess position and nerve proximity
2. Local Anesthesia or Sedation – Pain-free experience tailored to patient comfort
3. Surgical Removal – Tooth is carefully sectioned and extracted
4. Cleaning & Suturing – Area is cleaned and stitched (if necessary)
5. Post-Op Care & Medication – Guidance for swelling control and pain management

Aftercare Tips

• Apply ice packs for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
• Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or straw use for 24 hours (prevents dry socket)
• Eat soft foods for a few days (soups, yogurt, smoothies)
• Take prescribed medication as directed
• Return for suture removal and follow-up check

FAQs

1. Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
   No. Local anesthesia or sedation ensures a painless procedure. Mild soreness afterward is normal and easily managed with medication.
2. When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
   Usually in the late teens or early twenties—healing is faster, and complications are fewer at this age.
3. How long is the recovery time?
   Most patients recover within 3–7 days, depending on complexity.
4. What is the cost of impacted wisdom tooth removal in Seoul?
   Prices typically range from ₩150,000 – ₩400,000 (USD 120–300) per tooth, depending on difficulty, anesthesia type, and clinic.