Wisdom Teeth: 7 Signs to Book an Exam in Kitchener-Waterloo

1. Pain or pressure behind molars


2. Swollen, irritated gums (pericoronitis)


3. Bad taste or odour from the back of the mouth


4. Cheek biting near erupting teeth


5. Cysts/decay on nearby teeth (seen on imaging)


6. Crowding or shifting


7. Repeated infections

What the consult includes

Exam + X-rays/pan/CBCT as needed, risks/benefits, recovery plan, and sedation options when appropriate.

Do all wisdom teeth need removal?

No—if fully erupted, easy to clean, and trouble-free, monitoring may be best.

FAQ

How long is recovery?

Many return to light activity in 1–2 days (case-dependent).

How do I prevent dry socket?

Follow instructions; avoid smoking and straws early on.

Will I need stitches?

Sometimes, depending on the extraction.

Concerned about wisdom teeth? Request an oral surgery assessment in Waterloo.

*This article is for general information and does not replace a dental exam.