Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars, typically emerge in late teens or early twenties. Misalignment often necessitates their removal. Misaligned wisdom teeth may be horizontal, angled, or partially erupted, causing issues like crowding, damage to nearby teeth, jawbone, or nerves. Impacted wisdom teeth, either enclosed in tissue/jawbone or partially breaking through the gum, lead to pain, swelling, infection, and oral problems.

To assess wisdom teeth concerns, we may need to take x-rays or refer you to an oral surgeon. Even without noticeable issues, early extraction might be recommended to avoid complications later. Extraction is simpler in youth due to less developed roots and softer bone, with older individuals potentially experiencing longer recovery times.

The difficulty of extraction depends on the wisdom teeth’s position and development stage. Fully erupted teeth are similar to regular extractions, while embedded ones may require gum incision and possibly bone removal. In some cases, teeth in this situation may be extracted in sections to minimise bone removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Are you able to extract my wisdom tooth?

We would take an intra-oral x-ray or panoramic x-ray (OPG) to view the position and shape of the wisdom tooth roots and also in relation to nerves, sinus and other anatomy. Generally, wisdom teeth that are almost to fully erupted can be extracted by us with local anaesthesic. Your dentist will let you know if you need to be referred to an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon. 

What happens during an extraction?

  1. A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and gums.
  2. Elevators and forceps are used to move the tooth from side to side until it’s loose enough for removal. You may feel pressure, hear some noises but not pain.
  3. After extraction a piece of gauze is placed at the extraction site to prevent bleeding.

If you can't extract my wisdom tooth, who do I see?

In complex cases, we refer you to an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon. An Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon is a dual qualified dental and medical practitioner who have extensive experience in extracting wisdom teeth. They can also do extractions in hospital under general anaesthetic.

 

Can I be asleep for my wisdom teeth extractions?

We do not provide general anaesthetic, you can ask your dentist to refer you to an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon who can provide this service in hospital.

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