For many people, wisdom teeth can become impacted and must be treated, often requiring removal.
What are wisdom teeth?
Our rear teeth are known as the third molars, and most people have four of these – two upper and two lower. They are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually emerging between the ages of 16 and 23 – hence the popular term wisdom teeth. But not everyone has wisdom teeth; some people are born without any or with fewer than four.
Most of us have enough room in our mouths for wisdom teeth to erupt normally, in line with our other teeth. In such cases, wisdom teeth function the same as our other molars and will not require any treatment.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
These teeth only become impacted when there is insufficient gum space for normal eruption. An impacted wisdom tooth is one that grows out at an angle, or does not fully emerge from the gum line. The gum around that tooth can then become swollen and painful, and in some cases even infected. Some of the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Pain and swelling around the jaw
- Bad breath
- Headache or jaw ache
- Unpleasant taste when eating
If left untreated, wisdom teeth can cause more serious problems, like dental decay or damage to nearby teeth. However, impacted wisdom teeth do not always show any symptoms, so you might not even realise you have impacted teeth.
The easiest way to know if you need your wisdom teeth extracted is to visit your dentist for an examination. After your dental and medical history have been checked, you will have an X-ray to assess the position and angulation of your wisdom teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?
The best way to find out is to visit your dentist for an examination. After reviewing your dental and medical history, your dentist will take an X-ray to assess the position and angulation of your wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is recommended.
Why is it important to remove wisdom teeth?
If left untreated, wisdom teeth can cause problems such as dental decay or damage to nearby teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth don’t always cause symptoms, so you might not even realise you have them.
How should I prepare for wisdom tooth removal?
Preparation depends on the number and complexity of teeth being removed. You may need to fast the night before, avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior, and arrange for someone to accompany you to the procedure and take care of you for at least 24 hours if general anaesthetic is used. Your clinician will provide detailed instructions specific to your procedure.
Where is the procedure performed?
Wisdom teeth removal can be done in the dental chair under local anaesthetic or in a hospital under general anaesthetic. Your clinician will discuss the most appropriate option based on your needs and preferences.
What’s the difference between local and general anaesthetic?
Local anaesthetic numbs the area being treated, keeping you awake, though you may feel pressure. General anaesthetic is administered in a hospital by a specialist anaesthetist, and you will be completely unconscious with no memory of the procedure.
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Removal is often recommended in young adults under 25, as recovery tends to be quicker and less painful. If your wisdom teeth are likely to cause problems, early removal is generally advised.
What are the risks of wisdom teeth removal?
Risks include general surgical risks, infection, bleeding, dry socket (when the blood clot in the extraction site fails or is dislodged), and temporary nerve trauma causing altered sensation in the lips, tongue, or gums. Your clinician will discuss risks specific to your situation during consultation.
What should I expect after wisdom teeth removal?
Some bleeding, discomfort, and bruising are normal. Recovery time depends on the complexity of your procedure. You will be provided with a post-operative pack including instructions, gauze, mouthwash, syringes, and emergency contact numbers. Pain medication and antibiotics may also be prescribed.
How should I care for my mouth after surgery?
Maintain a soft diet with cold or room-temperature foods. Avoid hot drinks, drinking through a straw, smoking, alcohol, blowing your nose, excessive spitting or rinsing, and vigorous physical activity for at least 24 hours. These precautions help prevent dry socket and promote healing.
Who will perform my wisdom teeth removal?
Your procedure may be performed by a general dentist or a specialist oral & maxillofacial surgeon, depending on complexity and anaesthetic choice. Specialists have extensive training in hospital-based surgery and can manage both simple and complex cases safely.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
Costs vary depending on whether a general dentist or specialist performs the procedure, the complexity of the extraction, and the type of anaesthetic used. Hospital fees may apply if general anaesthetic is required, some of which may be covered by Medicare or private health insurance. You will receive an itemised quote during your consultation.
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