Wisdom Tooth Extractions

At Dental Studio Mooroolbark, we understand that the thought of wisdom tooth extraction can be concerning. However, this common procedure is often necessary to maintain your oral health and prevent potential complications. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand why wisdom teeth may need to be removed and what you can expect during and after the extraction process.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, hence the name “wisdom” teeth, associated with maturity. Due to limited space in the mouth, many individuals experience dental issues such as overcrowding, impaction, and misalignment when these teeth come in. In such cases, wisdom tooth extraction may be recommended to prevent further complications.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Extracted?

Wisdom teeth may need to be extracted for several reasons, including:

Impaction: Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they do not fully erupt through the gum line. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
Decay and Infection: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to decay, gum disease, and infection.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure:

At Dental Studio Mooroolbark, we prioritise your comfort and ensure that the extraction procedure is as smooth and pain-free as possible. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation and Evaluation: We begin with a thorough examination and X-rays to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. This helps us determine the best approach for extraction.
Anesthesia: We use local anesthetic to numb the area around the wisdom tooth, ensuring a painless extraction procedure. While we do not offer general anesthesia at our clinic, we can consult with patients interested in undergoing the procedure under general anesthesia and provide a referral to a specialised oral surgeon.
Extraction: The procedure involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth if it is still beneath the gum. If the tooth has erupted, we can often remove it using a luxator to gently loosen it. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. After extracting the tooth, we clean the area thoroughly and place stitches if necessary.
Post-Procedure Care: We will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth after the extraction, including pain management, dietary recommendations, and oral hygiene practices.

Post Extraction Care and Recovery

Recovery from a wisdom tooth extraction typically involves:

Managing Pain and Swelling: Mild discomfort and swelling are normal. We may prescribe pain relief medication or recommend over-the-counter options to help manage any discomfort.
Diet and Oral Hygiene: Stick to soft foods and avoid hard, spicy, or hot foods that could irritate the extraction site. Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with salt water, but avoid brushing directly on the extraction site until it heals.
Follow-Up Appointments: We will schedule a follow-up visit to check on your healing progress and address any concerns you might have.

Potential Risks and Complications

While wisdom tooth extraction is generally safe, potential risks include:

Infection: Rare but possible, infection can be managed with appropriate care and, if necessary, antibiotics.
Dry Socket: This occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, causing pain and delaying healing. Following aftercare instructions helps minimise this risk.
Nerve Injury: In rare cases, nerves near the wisdom teeth can be affected, leading to numbness or tingling in the mouth.

Wisdom Tooth Extractions | Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@tdsm.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do wisdom tooth extractions hurt?

Local anesthetic is used to numb the area around the wisdom tooth, ensuring a painless procedure. Post-extraction discomfort is normal but can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief.

How can I prevent problems with my wisdom teeth?

Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the development of your wisdom teeth and detecting any issues early on. Maintaining good oral hygiene and limiting sugary foods also supports overall oral health. Although decay and infection can be prevented with proper care, impaction is unavoidable as it is a natural aspect of how wisdom teeth develop.

How long is wisdom tooth recovery?

Most people recover within a few days to a week. Full healing of the gum tissue may take a few weeks. Adhering to post-care instructions can help speed up the recovery process.