What Are The Wisdom Teeth?
Your wisdom teeth are your final set of molars, which emerge usually in your late teens or early 20s. by this time, your jaw and teeth are mature and fully grown and, in many cases, there isn’t enough space left for the wisdom teeth to occupy.
Why Do People Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth that present with problems are usually removed at the first sign of an issue, because they can get worse. Some reasons for this include
- Your wisdom teeth might be impacted and not be able to break through your gums. This can lead to infection and cavities, which can affect the other teeth in your mouth.
- Wisdom teeth can erupt at an angle, causing pressure against the adjacent teeth.
- If you have gum disease or cavities it means that you aren’t able to clean the area thoroughly, a sign that the wisdom teeth must be removed.
How Do You Know If You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Your dentist will be able to tell how your wisdom teeth are emerging with an x-ray.
Before wisdom teeth removal, you may also present with symptoms such as swelling, redness, bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, if the area has become infected.
If your wisdom teeth are emerging straight, your jaw can accommodate them and your dentist doesn’t foresee a problem, you do not need wisdom teeth removal.
What Are Your Options?
In straightforward wisdom teeth extractions, the procedure is very similar to having any other tooth removed, in that you will be given a local anaesthetic. If you are anxious or having a complex or lengthy procedure, you may have sedation or general anaesthetic. You will discuss these options in more detail with your dental practitioner.
What Is The Cost Of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Every patient’s procedure cost for wisdom teeth extractions may be slightly different, based on the patient’s needs and complexity. Your cost estimate will also depend on whether you are having a single tooth, or all four extracted at once.
What Can You Expect During The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure?
If you are having your procedure done under local anaesthetic, your dentist will first numb the area. He or she may need to cut through the gum if your wisdom teeth are only partially erupted. The complexity of the procedure also influences how long it will take. Sometimes wisdom teeth that are difficult to access may need to be broken up into smaller pieces.
Once the tooth is removed you will be given a piece of gauze to bite down on to manage the bleeding. It is important to allow the blood clot to form over your wound, so make sure you follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.
The sooner you have your wisdom teeth removal, the better you can manage your chances of complications. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 4210 9078.
