Wisdom Teeth Removal in Joondanna

Most wisdom teeth do not become tender until they have caused damage. It is best to have them investigated before they come through, typically as teenagers.

It is best to remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 20, since they do not have enough space to grow. The jaw does not have sufficient room for the natural eruptions of wisdom teeth. They can grow in different directions, even horizontally. Getting treatment early prevents complications later in life.

As you age, your wisdom tooth roots extend further, so it’s a good idea to have them removed while you’re still young. When you get older, your bones become denser. When teeth are extracted later, recovery may be more difficult and take longer. Wisdom tooth extraction when you are young may produce better results.

Wisdom teeth are not always problematic. However, some emerge from the gums at odd angles, pushing into existing teeth or the gums. This is referred to as impaction.

Wisdom teeth that are impacted can be painful and cause infection. In addition, they can be difficult or painful to brush. Bacteria can become trapped, leading to tooth decay and gum infection. When wisdom teeth are crowded in the upper jaw, they can grow sideways and irritate the cheeks, leading to ulcers and difficulty chewing.

As sedation options are available for wisdom tooth extraction, this extraction procedure is relatively painless. To make wisdom tooth removal as stress-free as possible, we offer a range of sedation options. In-chair sedation with local anaesthesia, oral sedation, nitrous oxide, and intravenous sedation are available at Joondanna Family Dental.

Wisdom teeth removal can cause the following complications:

1. Bleeding usually occurs within the first few hours. However, bleeding that persists may indicate that there is no blood clot forming, stitches have come undone, or the hole left by the wisdom tooth did not close. Contact your dentist if the bleeding continues.
2. Once your wisdom teeth are removed, a blood clot forms over the tooth socket. The blood clot acts as a wound protector and aids in the repair of bone and nerve endings. Blood clots must remain in place until the wisdom tooth holes have healed completely. A dislodged clot is painful and will prolong your recovery time from wisdom teeth removal. It will also expose an infection-prone socket where your wisdom tooth once resided. Your dentist should be notified right away if you suspect a dry socket.
3. Extraction of a wisdom tooth may be followed by swelling and discomfort. This is normal. However, they can also be signs that your wisdom tooth holes are infected. Consult your dentist if you experience these symptoms a few days after your extraction. The most obvious signs of an infection after wisdom teeth extraction are a yellow discharge, a bad taste or odour in the mouth, and possibly even a fever.

We at Joondanna Family Dental will walk you through the process of taking care of your mouth after having a wisdom tooth removed. Below are some of the things we will discuss:

• Strictly do NOT smoke or vape for 48 hours after the surgery.
• Strictly do NOT drink alcohol for 48 hours after surgery.
• Take medication as prescribed by your dentist. Always follow aftercare instructions and alert us of possible allergies or reactions.
• You may use warm salt water to gargle – but no earlier than 24 hours post-surgery.
• Do not use a straw while drinking.
• Eat only soft, easy-to-chew foods for the next few days, as your jaw will feel stiff when opening.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity.

Since treatment costs vary from patient to patient, it is best to schedule an appointment with Joondanna Family Dental so we can provide you with an accurate quote after examining your wisdom teeth.