Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Korea's Complete Patient Guide

Wisdom teeth — the third molars — are the last teeth to erupt, usually between ages 17 and 25. Many people do not have enough jaw space to accommodate them, leading to impaction (the tooth becoming stuck below or partially through the gum), crowding, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. When wisdom teeth cause problems, extraction is the definitive solution.

In Korea, wisdom tooth extractions are performed by dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons at dental clinics and hospital dental departments nationwide. Simple extractions of fully erupted teeth are straightforward procedures performed under local anaesthetic in the dental chair, typically taking 20–40 minutes. Impacted wisdom teeth — those trapped beneath the gum or bone — require surgical extraction, which may be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation, or under general anaesthetic in a hospital setting for complex cases.

Recovery after wisdom tooth removal typically takes 3–5 days for a simple extraction and 7–14 days for a surgical extraction. During recovery, soft foods, cold compresses, and prescribed pain medication help manage discomfort. Complications such as dry socket (when the blood clot dislodges), infection, or temporary numbness of the lip can occur — your surgeon will advise you on prevention and management. Most patients in Korea return to normal activities within a week.