Can wisdom teeth be extracted during breastfeeding?

Many adults develop wisdom teeth. The emergence of wisdom teeth is a common physiological phenomenon, referring to the growth of large molars at the very back of the dental arch. After erupting, wisdom teeth often require extraction, as leaving them in place may easily lead to complications. So, can wisdom teeth be extracted during lactation?

Can wisdom teeth be extracted during lactation?

Wisdom tooth extraction is generally not recommended during lactation. This procedure is relatively complex and invasive. Although anesthesia and sterilization are performed during the surgery, postoperative pain and swelling remain possible. If such reactions occur after extraction, physicians typically prescribe oral anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications for symptomatic management. However, these oral medications may pass into breast milk to some extent, potentially affecting the nursing infant.

Lactation—evident from its name—is the period following childbirth during which a mother feeds her infant with her own breast milk, beginning at the onset of breastfeeding and continuing until its cessation. In China, maternity leave for breastfeeding is typically mandated for one year following delivery and initiation of breastfeeding. In contrast, the World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods for at least two years.

In daily life, patients should maintain a positive mindset, actively cooperate with their healthcare providers, take prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosage, and pay attention to routine self-care—thereby facilitating prompt recovery. We hope this information has been helpful to you.