Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure to extract one or more of your third molars, located at the very back of your mouth. These teeth often emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 but can sometimes cause problems if there isn’t enough space in your jaw for them to grow properly. Removal may be necessary to prevent pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.

Do You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal?

You might need to have a wisdom tooth removed if you experience:

• Pain or discomfort: Caused by the tooth pushing against other teeth or the gum.
• Swelling or tenderness: In the gums around the wisdom tooth.
• Recurring infections: Due to trapped food and bacteria around partially erupted wisdom teeth (pericoronitis).
• Tooth decay or gum disease: Affecting the wisdom tooth or adjacent teeth.
• Cysts or damage to nearby teeth: From impacted wisdom teeth growing at an angle.

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. If they are fully erupted, properly aligned, and easy to clean, they may not pose any risk.

What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Removal?

The procedure varies depending on whether the tooth is fully erupted or impacted (trapped in the gum or jawbone). Typically, the steps include:

1. Assessment and Planning:

Your dentist or oral surgeon will take X-rays to determine the position of the tooth and the complexity of the extraction.

Local anaesthesia will be used to numb the area, and in some cases, sedation or general anaesthesia may be offered for your comfort.

2. Extraction Procedure:

For a fully erupted tooth, the dentist will loosen it with specialised instruments and gently remove it.

For an impacted tooth, a small incision is made in the gum, and sometimes a portion of the bone around the tooth is removed. The tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier extraction.

3. Closing the Site:

If an incision was made, stitches may be placed to promote healing. Dissolvable stitches are commonly used.

4. Post-Procedure Care:

Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding, and you'll be given instructions for home care.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Recovery typically takes about a week, during which mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal. To aid healing:

• Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Eat soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
• Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or using straws, as these can disrupt the healing process.
• Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
• Signs of complications, such as prolonged bleeding, severe pain, or swelling that worsens after a few days, should be reported to your dentist immediately.

Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal

• Pain relief: Eliminates discomfort caused by impacted or overcrowded wisdom teeth.
• Prevention of future problems: Reduces the risk of infections, decay, and gum disease.
• Improved oral health: Protects adjacent teeth and the jawbone from damage.

Risks and Complications

While wisdom tooth removal is generally safe, possible complications include:

• Dry socket: A painful condition where the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves.
• Infection: Symptoms include fever, swelling, or discharge from the site.
• Nerve injury: Rarely, the procedure can affect nearby nerves, causing temporary or permanent numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin.
• Your dentist will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimise them during the procedure.

When to See a Dentist

Seek advice from a dentist if you notice:

• Pain or swelling at the back of your mouth.
• Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing.
• Signs of infection, such as redness, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth.
• Damage to nearby teeth or changes in your bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Tooth Removal

“Does everyone need their wisdom teeth removed?”

No, wisdom teeth only need removal if they cause problems or are likely to in the future.

“Is the procedure painful?”

With modern anaesthesia, you should feel little to no pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort after the surgery is normal and can be managed with pain relief.

“How long does the procedure take?”

The extraction of a single tooth usually takes 20-40 minutes, but it may take longer for impacted teeth.

“Can I go back to work or school the next day?”

It’s best to rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may need 2-3 days to recover fully.

Wisdom tooth removal is a straightforward and effective way to address pain and prevent long-term dental issues. At Yes Dental, we prioritise your comfort and recovery, using advanced techniques to ensure a smooth procedure. Say YES to a pain-free mouth—book a consultation with our friendly team today!