Simple Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Referred to as your third molars; wisdom teeth are your last teeth to emerge and tend to come through between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people they erupt without any problems the same as all other teeth, but for others they can create a range of complications.
Not everyone has the same number of wisdom teeth; you may have as few as one, as many as four or none at all. The main problem with wisdom teeth is when they become impacted, this means they have developed at an angle and will not emerge straight and only partially come through your gum-line “partially impacted” or not at all “fully impacted”. Not all impacted wisdom teeth will cause pain alerting you to a developing problem; only with regular oral health checks can we detect when something has gone awry.
It is estimated over 80% of wisdom teeth need to be removed and as it is not possible to predict if or when your wisdom teeth will cause problems, it is highly advised to remove them earlier rather than later. Removal of wisdom teeth in older patients can be more difficult resulting in a longer healing period.
A thorough examination is able to determine the extent to which your wisdom teeth have become impacted. X-rays taken to produce a highly detailed image your teeth and bone structure.
It is not advisable to remove wisdom teeth if you have gum disease due to the risk of it spreading the infection. Therefore, we may delay treatment until you have complete oral health. Antibiotics may be prescribed as well as adhering to a stringent oral hygiene routine for several weeks including the use of a formulated mouthwash. To make removal easier and aid your recovery we highly recommend you quit smoking.
Removal of wisdom teeth is performed under a local anaesthetic within our practice. Removing wisdom teeth requires a small incision in your gum tissue above the tooth if fully impacted or around the tooth when it has partially erupted. Then we separate the connective tissue from your jawbone and remove the tooth. If any bone has grown over the tooth it will also need to be removed.
You may require one or several stitches depending on your personal situation. They may be stitches that dissolve over time or need to be removed, we will advise you of the most suitable for your procedure. Gauze will be placed to help the area heal and prevent bleeding.
It is vitally important you make us aware of any medication, either prescribed or over the counter, you may currently be taking, if you are experiencing any general health problems or if you have an allergy to any medications.
Recovery will generally take a few days for most people. You may experience some slight post-operative swelling and mild discomfort. Over the counter pain relief medication is often all that is required to relieve your discomfort. Stronger medication can be prescribed if needed. A soft food diet is also recommended for several days.