Wisdom tooth removal can vary in complexity depending on the position and condition of your teeth. In some cases, it may involve a straightforward extraction of the last molar, which can be completed relatively quickly, typically lasting about 5 to 10 minutes. However, a more involved surgical procedure might be necessary for certain impacted or buried wisdom teeth.
In the case of buried wisdom teeth, the procedure may require the tooth to be divided into several pieces to facilitate easier and safer removal. This process is known as surgical extraction and is commonly performed by experienced general dentists or oral surgeons. The dentist or oral surgeon will carefully assess the positioning and condition of your wisdom teeth using X-rays or other imaging techniques to determine the appropriate approach.
Wisdom teeth are the last molars of the mouth.
How does wisdom tooth removal work?
When undergoing wisdom tooth removal, your dental surgeon will begin by applying a numbing cream to the area, followed by an injection to ensure the area is thoroughly numbed. The procedure varies depending on whether the wisdom tooth is fully erupted, buried, and/or impacted.
If the wisdom tooth fully erupts, the dentist will gently loosen and twist it to remove it from the bone. However, if the tooth is buried and impacted, the gums will be carefully separated to expose the tooth, and a portion of bone may need to be removed to uncover it fully. The impacted tooth is then divided into smaller pieces and gently elevated to minimise discomfort.
Wisdom teeth can be impacted in various ways and may require surgery for removal.
The dental team uses X-rays or advanced computed tomography (CT) scans for complex cases before the procedure to visualise tricky spots before the operation, ensuring a safe and efficient process. After removal, the extraction socket is cleaned, and the gums are stitched back in place for good healing. At An Dental, state-of-the-art equipment such as the KAVO OP3D and Focus CT scan and X-ray machine is used, providing high-resolution images with low radiation to enhance accuracy and patient safety during the procedure.
Benefits of wisdom tooth removal
Relief from pain
Prevention of infections
Prevent dental issues on the tooth in front of the wisdom tooth
Wisdom tooth removal helps relieve pain and prevents future infections.
What can wisdom tooth removal treat?
Wisdom tooth removal can be used for the following conditions:
Pain and discomfort
Infections
Dental issues
Cysts and tumours
Improved oral health
If you have any of the conditions above, make an appointment for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Wisdom teeth can cause damage to nearby molars, cysts, overcrowding, and infections.
What results can I expect?
The results of wisdom tooth removal vary depending on the individual case and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, you can expect relief from pain and discomfort caused by impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth. Removal can also prevent or resolve infections like pericoronitis (inflammation of the gums surrounding the wisdom tooth) and helps prevent dental issues such as overcrowding and misalignment of other teeth.
By extracting buried and impacted wisdom teeth, you can avoid potential complications like cysts or tumours. Overall, wisdom tooth removal aims to improve oral health and ensure a healthier and more comfortable mouth. Our dental team will provide you with specific instructions for aftercare to promote proper healing and minimise any potential post-operative discomfort.
Follow your dentist's instructions to promote healing after your wisdom tooth extraction.
Post-operative care includes:
Restricting activity: while patients can opt to return to work or school the following day, it is important to not participate in any physical activity for at least two days following the surgery. Avoid sleeping on the surgery side. Smoking is not advised for 7 to 14 days after surgery.
Medications: you are advised to take prescribed medicines as directed if you experience discomfort after the local anaesthesia wears off.
Swelling: after wisdom tooth removal, expect some swelling, peaking around 48 hours. Use ice for the first 24 hours, then warm, moist heat. Keep your head elevated and avoid lying on the surgery side.
Bleeding: some oozing in the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth removal is normal. For slight bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze. If the bleeding persists, use a wet, caffeinated tea bag to constrict your blood vessels. Avoid rinsing or spitting.
Mouth care: to facilitate faster and effective healing, avoid pulling on your lips and keep your tongue and fingers away from the surgical site. Sutures will either be removed or dissolved in 1 to 2 weeks. Refrain from smoking during the healing phase.
Diet: after surgery, avoid hot, spicy, brittle, or abrasive foods. Opt for a soft diet for the first 24 hours and minimise chewing on the surgery side. A balanced diet supports optimal healing.
Oral hygiene: only brush the surgical area once instructed. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after rinsing. Staining and taste alterations are reversible.
Special considerations: after the extraction, you might experience stiffness in facial muscles, making it hard to open your mouth. Moist heat compresses can help you. You may also have temporary aching from other teeth due to referred pain. Bruising in the extraction area is common, and a slight temperature elevation may occur for 24 to 48 hours. Contact An Dental if your fever persists.
You will have a follow-up appointment in 1 to 2 weeks, lasting about 20 minutes. Sutures may be removed, and oral hygiene instructions provided.
How many treatment sessions are needed?
The number of treatment sessions needed depends on the specific dental issue or procedure. Your dentist will advise you accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need wisdom tooth/teeth removal?
Not all wisdom teeth require removal, especially if they have fully emerged like other teeth. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, buried, or not growing correctly, you should consider the possibility of removal of wisdom teeth.
Why should I remove my wisdom tooth/teeth?
If you experience pain or infection (pericoronitis) caused by food and bacteria getting trapped beneath your gums, or if your wisdom tooth causes decay in the adjacent molar, we may recommend wisdom tooth removal. Other reasons include root resorption on the adjacent molar or the formation of a dental cyst related to the wisdom tooth.
Is wisdom tooth/teeth removal painful?
The pain experienced during wisdom tooth removal can vary between individuals. The procedure is typically performed under anaesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the surgery. However, you may experience some discomfort and soreness after the anaesthesia wears off. We also provide sedation options at An Dental. You may opt for laughing gas or IV sedation for more comfort. This can be discussed with your dentist at the consultation appointment.
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