Wisdom teeth are usually extracted to correct an actual problem or to prevent problems that may occur in the future.
It may be decided to remove a wisdom tooth as it may be impacted in that it cannot break through the gum or it may be partway through and causing pain or infection.
It also may be that one of your wisdom teeth is at an awkward angle and impacting other teeth or that they are causing the adjacent teeth to become decayed.
Most wisdom teeth are removed by our dental surgeons in our clinic.
In some cases however, for more complex cases you may need to be referred to a specialist or a hospital for removal. Following an x-ray interpretation and a medical history our dental surgeon will be able to advise you on the recommended and the most appropriate route for you.
Removal of wisdom teeth at the clinic does not require a general anaesthetic.
You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed.
After the removal of the tooth you may need stiches.
It is important to relax after the procedure.
The recovery period following surgery typically last only a few days.
You will be given detailed post-operative instructions following your surgery, however the following are some tips to help your recovery.
You will be given gauze pads to bite on following the procedure; you should change these regularly if you are getting any bleeding
You should be careful not to bite the inside of your cheek or lip or tongue while your mouth is still numb
Eat soft foods but do not use a straw as the sucking motion can delay healing
After the first day you should gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water
Continue to brush your teeth and tongue carefully