Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, usually between ages 17 and 25. They often lack space: they grow at an angle, come in partially or stay trapped in the bone.
Not all of them need to be removed. This guide explains when removal makes sense, how the surgery works and what to expect during recovery.
Why wisdom teeth cause problems
When the jaw lacks space, the tooth may stay partially covered by gum. Food and bacteria build up there and inflame the area (pericoronitis), causing pain, a bad taste and sometimes trouble opening the mouth.
A poorly positioned wisdom tooth can also push against or damage the neighboring molar, and it is harder to clean.
When should wisdom teeth come out?
The decision is made with an exam and a panoramic X-ray. The most common reasons are:
- Recurring pain or swelling.
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the molar next to it.
- Lack of space or a position that affects the neighboring tooth.
- Cysts or other findings on the X-ray.
- As part of an orthodontic or rehabilitation plan.
What does it cost?
Each tooth is assessed separately with an exam and an X-ray: position, whether it is impacted and whether sedation is needed all change the cost. Current starting prices for international patients are in our price guide.
How the surgery works
First we study the X-ray to see each tooth's position and its relation to nerves and neighboring teeth. The extraction is done under local anesthesia at the clinic; in some cases it can be scheduled with sedation by an anesthesiologist. You leave with written aftercare instructions and a follow-up appointment.
Recovery and travel
Swelling usually peaks in the first two or three days and goes down during the week. If you are visiting Bogotá, plan a few quiet days after surgery and ask your surgeon when it is fine to fly.
- Don't spit hard or use straws for the first days.
- Don't smoke and avoid intense exercise.
- Eat soft, lukewarm or cold food.
- Call us if you have fever, increasing pain after day three, pus or bleeding that doesn't stop.
The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a professional dental evaluation. Results may vary between patients.