The jaw may not be large enough to accommodate the wisdom tooth and the tooth may become impacted being unable to erupt through the gum
Impacted teeth can result in infections, damage to other teeth and bone, or cysts
A wisdom tooth may not erupt fully through the gum and cause a flap of gum tissue to grow over the tooth. Food and germs can then get trapped underneath the flap and cause the gum to become infected and painful
They can be difficult to clean being at the back of the mouth and this can result in poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath and infections
They can cause movement in the adjacent teeth which has a concertina effect and can cause crowding and misalignment of the front teeth
Although it is easier to remove wisdom teeth when the patient is in their late teens or early 20s, the wisdom tooth extraction procedure is a routine painless one at any age when carried out by a Specialist Oral Surgeon.
It is not uncommon to have all 4 wisdom teeth extracted during the one visit, and the procedure takes on average 1 hour.
Before starting, local anesthetic is given to numb the area where the wisdom tooth is so you will not feel any pain or discomfort.
Other sedation options are available for patients who may be very anxious.
Once the tooth is removed, stitches may be applied and these will dissolve after 3 – 5 days.
You will be prescribed antibiotics and painkillers to be taken the 3 – 5 days after the procedure to prevent any infection or discomfort.
After The Procedure
After the procedure we recommend that you relax at home for the rest of the day
Apply an ice pack to the side of your face where the tooth was extracted every 20 minutes for the first 12 – 24 hours
Most patients return to their normal daily routines the day after the procedure but we recommend that you don’t do any physical exercise for 3 to 5 days
Antibiotics and painkillers should also be taken 3 to 5 days after the procedure
We also recommend a "soft diet" during this time of ice cream, thin soup and puddings As the healing process progresses, you can start to introduce more solid foods
Avoid using straws, as sucking through a straw may loosen any stiches
Do not rub or touch the wound with your tongue until it is fully healed
Brush your teeth carefully avoiding the area of the wound
Testimonials
My daughter had her impacted wisdom teeth extracted. Because it was going to require oral surgery, a professional, experienced surgeon was of utmost importance. The cost of the procedure was affordable. It was a wonderful experience all around. Professional and caring staff, prompt replies to my questions and concerns, warm and welcoming office environment. Extremely pleased and will recommend!
