Removing an impacted or food-impacted wisdom tooth can prevent decay of adjacent teeth, including the wisdom tooth itself. In cases where it's difficult to clean, removal may be necessary if signs of gum inflammation, infection, or swelling are present.
It can take up to 2 weeks to recover from the surgery for having your wisdom tooth removed.
During this time, you may have:
· A swollen mouth and cheeks - this will be worse for the first few days but will gradually improve; gently pressing a cold cloth to your face helps reduce the swelling.
· Some mild visible bruising of your cheek - the skin may be bruised for up to 2 weeks.
· A stiff, sore jaw - this should wear off within 7 to 10 days.
· Pain - this is worse if the extraction was difficult or complicated.
· An unpleasant taste in your mouth.