What To Expect When Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
In this article, we cover:
- Why you may NOT need your wisdom teeth out
- What to plan for if you do need treatment
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to develop. They typically emerge into the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. However, some people may have fewer, or even none at all.
Why Do People Have Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed for the following reasons:
• Impaction: When there isn't enough room for the teeth to emerge properly, they may become impacted—stuck under the gum or bone. This can lead to pain, infection, or damage to neighbouring teeth.
• Crowding: Erupting wisdom teeth can push against adjacent teeth, potentially causing crowding.
• Decay or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean. This can increase the risk of cavities or gum disease.
• Cysts or Tumours: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts or tumours, which may damage bone or surrounding tissues.
Your dental practitioner will assess your individual case using a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic imaging (such as panoramic X-rays or 3D scans) to determine whether removal is recommended.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, the potential benefits of extraction may include:
• Reduced Risk of Infection or Inflammation: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can harbour bacteria, leading to gum infections or abscesses.
• Prevention of Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Removing problematic wisdom teeth can protect nearby molars from damage.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Removing difficult-to-clean wisdom teeth can make oral hygiene more manageable and effective.
The decision to remove wisdom teeth should be based on individual assessment. According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), preventive removal may be appropriate in some cases to avoid future complications.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before Surgery:
• Your dentist or oral surgeon will conduct an assessment and discuss your options, including risks and benefits.
• You may be referred to a specialist, particularly if the teeth are deeply impacted or close to nerves or sinuses.
• The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia, with or without sedation. General anaesthesia may be used in some cases.
During Surgery:
• The dentist or surgeon will make an incision in the gum if the tooth hasn't erupted, and may need to remove some bone to access the tooth.
• The tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
• The site is then cleaned, and the gum is closed with dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches.
After Surgery:
• Swelling, discomfort, and mild bruising are common for a few days.
• Pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief.
• You may be advised to eat soft foods, avoid strenuous activity, and rinse with salt water.
• Follow-up appointments help ensure healing is progressing well.
Your dentist will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your situation.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom tooth removal is a routine and generally safe procedure that, when indicated, can prevent future oral health problems. If you have concerns or questions, it’s best to speak with your dentist, who can provide individualised advice based on your needs.
This article is intended for general information purposes only and should not replace professional dental advice. Always consult a registered dental practitioner for assessment and treatment recommendations.
Need personalised advice? Contact your local dental clinic to book a consultation with a qualified dental professional.
