Wisdom Teeth Extractions

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Safe and professional care

Wisdom teeth are often extracted to address potential complications. Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but when problems arise or are anticipated, extraction can be the best option. Advancements in dentistry have made the procedure safe and less invasive, which means it can be done with greater comfort and fewer visits.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, naturally emerge during the late teens or early twenties. They are located at the far back end of the mouth, and are the final set of teeth to erupt.

Usefulness and eruption patterns

In the distant past, wisdom teeth may have served a vital function, but today they are less essential. They are believed to be evolutionary hand-me-downs from a past when our ancestors required extra molars to chew tough foods.

Today, our diets typically have little need for this so they have lost their functional significance. Eruption patterns of wisdom teeth can vary among individuals. Some grow normally in alignment with the nearby teeth, while others encounter complications due to limited space or misalignment.

When should wisdom teeth be removed?

Not enough space in the jaw: One of the main reasons to take out wisdom teeth is the lack of adequate space in the jaw. Many people’s jaws don’t have sufficient room for these teeth to emerge properly, leading to impaction, meaning they cannot fully erupt or grow in the correct position. . When there is insufficient space, extracting wisdom teeth becomes necessary to prevent potential complications and maintain oral health.

Impaction and alignment problems: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause alignment issues and oral health problems. They may grow at odd angles or crowd adjacent teeth, causing misalignment beyond the wisdom teeth themselves. Extracting impacted wisdom teeth can alleviate these problems and prevent further dental issues.

Wisdom teeth decay: Hard-to-clean wisdom teeth are prone to decay. Their location at the back of the mouth makes them challenging to clean effectively. This leads to the accumulation of food particles, plaque, and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities. Extraction may be necessary to preserve oral health if decay threatens a significant portion of the tooth structure.

Wisdom teeth infection: Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to infections like pericoronitis. The gum tissue surrounding them may form a flap, trapping food debris and bacteria. This causes inflammation, pain, swelling, and potentially abscess formation. Extracting the affected wisdom teeth is often recommended when infection occurs, and conservative treatment options are ineffective.

Discomfort, pain, and other symptoms: Discomfort, pain, and other symptoms can indicate the need for wisdom tooth extraction. This may include chronic or recurring pain in the back of the mouth, jaw stiffness, headaches, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. Discomfort and pain can result from impaction, infection, inflammation, or the pressure exerted by wisdom teeth on neighbouring teeth. Removing the problematic wisdom teeth can relieve these symptoms and improve oral health.

Wisdom teeth evaluation and consultation

Before undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it is crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation and consultation with a dental professional. This allows for a thorough assessment of your condition and helps determine the necessity and best approach for extracting wisdom teeth.

During the evaluation, we will examine your wisdom teeth’s condition, position, alignment, and any associated oral health issues. X-rays or 3D scans may be used to obtain a clear view of the teeth and their relationship with surrounding structures. The dentist will discuss the findings with you, explain the potential risks and benefits of extraction, and answer any questions or concerns you may have. This consultation is an opportunity to make an informed decision about proceeding with the wisdom tooth extraction.

Wisdom teeth extraction procedure

The procedure for wisdom teeth extraction may vary based on the complexity of the case and the patient’s needs. Generally, the steps involved are as follows:

Anaesthesia: Your comfort is important, so anaesthesia will be administered before the extraction. Local anaesthesia numbs the extraction area, while sedation options may also be available to help you relax or sleep throughout the process.

Incision and access: The gum tissue covering the wisdom tooth is gently lifted to expose the tooth and surrounding bone. In some cases, a small incision may be necessary to access the tooth.

Tooth removal: The wisdom tooth is carefully and skillfully removed from its socket in the jawbone. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be divided into sections for easier removal.

Socket cleaning and closure: After extraction, the socket (the space left behind in the jawbone) is thoroughly cleaned to remove debris or infection. In some cases, sutures may be used to close the incision, although this may not always be required.

Post-extraction care: The dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including how to manage pain, reduce swelling, and maintain proper oral hygiene. Follow these instructions diligently to promote healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Sedation options for comfortable wisdom teeth extraction

Sedation options are available to ensure a comfortable experience during wisdom tooth extraction. These help alleviate anxiety, minimise pain, and promote relaxation during the procedure. The sedation options may include the following:

Local anaesthesia: This numbs the extraction area and ensures you do not feel any pain during the procedure.

Nitrous oxide sedation: Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask, inducing a state of relaxation and reducing anxiety. It wears off quickly after the procedure.

Oral sedation: This involves taking a prescribed medication before the appointment to induce a relaxed and drowsy state. You may remain awake but feel calm and less aware of the procedure.

Intravenous (IV) sedation: Administered through an IV line, this form of sedation induces a deeper level of relaxation or sleep during the procedure. It allows for more complex extractions for patients with high levels of anxiety.

The best sedation choice for you will depend on your required comfort level, the complexity of the extraction, and our personal recommendations. The goal will be to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the wisdom tooth extraction procedure.

Wisdom teeth extraction potential risks and complications

While wisdom tooth extraction is a common and generally safe procedure, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and complications. These can include:

Dry socket
Infection
Nerve damage
Sinus complications

We will discuss these, and any other risks, before the procedure and take necessary precautions to minimise them.

Wisdom teeth extraction postoperative care and recovery

After wisdom tooth extraction, proper postoperative care is crucial to promote healing and minimise discomfort. Postoperative care and recovery include:

Pain management: We may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relief to manage discomfort. Applying ice packs and avoiding strenuous activities can also help reduce swelling and pain.

Oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene but being gentle around the extraction site is essential. Follow your dentist’s instructions on brushing, rinsing, and avoiding certain activities like spitting or using straws.

Diet: Stick to soft, cold foods for the first few days after the extraction. Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that may irritate the extraction site. As your dentist advises, gradually reintroduce solid foods.

Rest and recovery: Take it easy for the first few days after the procedure. Rest, avoid excessive physical activity, and elevate your head while sleeping to reduce swelling.

Follow-up appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up visits to allow your dentist to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or complications.

Adhering to these postoperative care guidelines can promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications, ensuring a smoother recovery process.

Are you uncertain whether you require wisdom teeth extraction?

Book a dental consultation to evaluate your needs and receive professional guidance. Our team of experienced dentists will assess your condition and provide personalised recommendations for your oral health needs. Book your consultation with Dental Crafted now.