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If you've been diagnosed with impacted wisdom teeth, you may want to ask your dentist some of these questions. Your dentist may have questions for you, too.

• Are my wisdom teeth impacted? (Wisdom teeth are impacted if they haven't come through the gum properly.)
• Which ones are impacted?
• Are they causing any problems now?
• Will they cause problems in the future?
• What, if any, treatments do you advise?

• Why do I need my wisdom teeth removed?
• Is it because they are causing problems now or because they might in the future?
• Do I need to have the surgery soon?
• Who will do the operation? How much experience do they have?
• Where will the operation be done?
• Which impacted wisdom teeth need to come out?
• How long should my operation take?
• What type of anesthetic will I need?
• Could I have a sedative to make me calm for the operation, rather than an anesthetic?
• What are the risks of having my wisdom teeth taken out?
• How long will it take for me to recover?
• How long will I be away from work/school?

• Have you been having pain or swelling in the back of your mouth or cheeks?
• Have you been having headaches?
• Have you ever had a general anesthetic before? Was it OK for you?
• Would you like to have general anesthetic for the surgery?
• Do you understand the risks of having the surgery?

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.