The wisdom teeth are the last molars on either side of the jaws.
Wisdom Teeth Treatment in Surrey Hills
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Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The wisdom teeth are the last molars on either side of the jaws. For most people, they usually emerge between the age of 16 and 20. Because wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to come through or erupt, quite often there is not enough room to accommodate them comfortably. This can lead to the wisdom teeth being impacted, which means they are trapped beneath the gum tissue and by other bones or teeth. Wisdom teeth treatment is important to avoid impaction and the swelling of gums. If the wisdom teeth only partially emerge, may come through crooked which can lead to painful crowding and disease.
5 Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
1. Pain in or near your wisdom teeth
Discomfort or pain around the wisdom teeth often occurs due to impaction (when the teeth don’t fully emerge) or crowding. This pain can affect the way you eat, speak and move your head. In some cases, inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue (pericoronitis) can also occur leading to swelling, redness, and infection. Wisdom teeth treatment in Surrey Hills can alleviate this discomfort and pain.
2. Repeated infection of soft tissue behind the lower last tooth
When the wisdom teeth partially erupt, a flap of gum tissue may cover part of the tooth. This area becomes a trap for food particles and bacteria, leading to infection. Pericoronitis, as mentioned earlier, is a common example. Removing the wisdom teeth prevents recurrent infections and associated pain.
3. Fluid-filled sacs called cysts
Cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These sacs contain fluid and can cause pressure, bone destruction, and even damage to adjacent teeth. If left untreated, cysts can lead to more serious complications. Wisdom teeth removal by an expert dentist can prevent cyst growth.
4. Tumours
Although rare, tumours can develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These tumours may be benign or malignant. However, early detection and removal of wisdom teeth are crucial to prevent tumour progression and potential harm.
5. Damage to nearby teeth
In some cases, wisdom teeth can also put pressure on other teeth, causing misalignment, crowding, and sometimes even damage. By removing your wisdom teeth, the risk of damaging neighbouring teeth is minimised, preserving overall oral health.
Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Common symptoms of wisdom teeth impaction include:
- Tender
- Sensitivity
- Bad Breath
- Swollen gums at the back of jaw
- Unpleasant taste in mouth
- Discomfort when opening the mouth
Tender
Swollen gums at the back of jaw
Sensitivity
Unpleasant taste in mouth
Bad Breath
Discomfort when opening the mouth
Wisdom Teeth Treatment FAQs
After wisdom teeth extraction, it’s recommended to wait until the local anaesthesia wears off (usually within the first 12 hours) before eating.
Here are a few steps you can take to reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal:
- Apply ice packs to the affected area for the first 36 hours.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water or an antiseptic mouthwash (after the first 24 hours).
- Use chamomile tea bags to soothe inflammation.
- Elevate your head to minimise swelling.
While you can talk after surgery, it’s best to keep conversations minimal for at least the first 24-48 hours to aid healing. Expect some numbness and slurred speech initially due to anaesthesia, but this will improve as the numbness wears off. Gradually ease back into talking and avoid excessive stress on your jaw.
The healing process varies, but most people can return to work within 2-3 days after surgery. Swelling should go down within 7-10 days, and any mild bruising on the face will heal within 2 weeks.
Here are a few steps on how to sleep after the removal of wisdom teeth:
- Sleep with your back on the bed to avoid putting pressure on your jaw.
- Use extra pillows for comfort and support.
- Avoid sleeping on the side where the wisdom teeth were removed.
The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the number of teeth being removed, and the specific dental clinic. On average, wisdom teeth removal in Surrey Hills Dentist may range from $210 to $450 per tooth for simple extractions.
