Infected and Impacted Wisdom Teeth Treatment in London

Wisdom teeth are the last adult molars to develop, usually appearing between the late teens and mid-twenties. For some people, these teeth grow in normally without issues. However, many experience impaction, infection, or overcrowding, which can lead to severe discomfort and complications if left untreated.

At Thousand Smiles, we provide thorough assessment and effective treatment for wisdom teeth problems, including removal when necessary.

Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems

Wisdom teeth can become problematic for several reasons:

Impaction – when teeth are trapped beneath the gums or jawbone and cannot erupt properly.
Partial eruption – when teeth break through only part of the gum surface, leaving an opening for bacteria to enter.
Overcrowding – when there is not enough space in the mouth, causing pressure on neighbouring teeth.
Infection – when impacted or partially erupted teeth develop bacterial build-up, leading to swelling, pain, and gum irritation.

If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, it may be a sign of an infected wisdom tooth.

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, call our team today on 020 3773 2280 to book an urgent assessment.

020 3773 2280

Diagnosis and Examination

Your dentist will carry out a detailed examination to confirm the cause of your symptoms. This may include:

A visual check of your gums and teeth.
Dental X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and detect bone or tooth damage.
Questions about your symptoms, oral hygiene habits, and general health.

With this information, your dentist can recommend the most suitable course of action.

Options for Managing Wisdom Teeth

Monitoring Asymptomatic Wisdom Teeth

Not all wisdom teeth cause immediate problems. When wisdom teeth are symptom-free, they are often called “asymptomatic.” Dentists sometimes recommend leaving them in place if they are healthy, fully erupted, and easy to clean.

Reasons for extraction, even without symptoms, may include:

Hidden disease or early signs of decay in the wisdom tooth.
Difficulty cleaning due to tight spacing, leading to future risk of infection.
Prevention of complications later in life, when removal can be more complex.

Reasons to adopt a conservative approach may include:

Avoiding surgical risks and costs when no clear benefit is expected.
Insufficient evidence that all young adults with asymptomatic wisdom teeth will develop issues later.

Your dentist will weigh up both sides and discuss the best approach for your case.

Surgical Removal

When wisdom teeth are infected, impacted, or damaging surrounding teeth, extraction is often recommended. Surgery may also be advised if cysts, gum disease, or repeated infections are linked to the tooth.

The procedure usually involves:

Anaesthesia – local anaesthetic to numb the area, sedation for relaxation, or general anaesthetic for more complex extractions.
Incision and access – a small cut in the gum may be required to reach the tooth, and sometimes bone removal is necessary.
Extraction – the wisdom tooth is carefully removed.
Closure – stitches may be placed, and gauze applied to control bleeding.

Most extractions are carried out as same-day procedures, allowing patients to go home shortly afterwards.

Recovery and Aftercare

After wisdom tooth removal, it is common to experience mild swelling, bleeding, or discomfort. Your dentist will provide aftercare guidance to support smooth healing, which may include:

Using prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief.
Applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
Eating soft foods such as yoghurt, pasta, or smoothies for the first few days.
Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activity until recovery is complete.
Keeping the extraction site clean as instructed.

Serious complications such as dry socket or infection are rare but should be reported to your dentist if they occur.

Managing Anxiety About Extraction

Many patients feel nervous about wisdom tooth surgery. At Thousand Smiles, we understand these concerns and take steps to keep treatment as stress-free as possible. Options such as sedation are available for those who feel particularly anxious. Our dentists will also explain each stage of the procedure so you know what to expect.

Preparing for Your wisdom tooth treatment Appointment

Preparing for Your Appointment

When you visit for a wisdom tooth consultation, your dentist may ask:

What symptoms you are experiencing (pain, swelling, bleeding).
When the symptoms started and whether anything makes them worse.
Your medical history and any medications you take.

This information helps us create a safe, effective treatment plan tailored to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

No. Healthy, fully erupted wisdom teeth that are easy to clean may not require removal. Your dentist will advise based on your individual case.
How long is the recovery period?

Most patients feel comfortable within a few days, though complete healing may take one to two weeks.
Is wisdom tooth surgery painful?

The procedure is carried out under anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during extraction. Some soreness is expected afterwards but can be managed with medication and aftercare.
What happens if I ignore an infected wisdom tooth?

Infections can spread and cause abscesses, damage to nearby teeth, and even wider health problems if untreated. It is important to seek treatment promptly.
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?

Extractions are often simpler in younger adults, but removal can be carried out at any age if problems develop.

Book Your Wisdom Tooth Consultation

If you are struggling with impacted or infected wisdom teeth, don’t delay treatment. Early intervention prevents complications and relieves discomfort quickly.