Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as adult third molars, are the final set of teeth that usually emerge in the late teenage to early adult years.
A majority of individuals face problems with their wisdom teeth, with over 80% of people finding it challenging to maintain these teeth.
When do we need to remove wisdom teeth?
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing problems, they are unlikely to improve on their own. Fortunately, a skilled dentist can easily and comfortably remove your wisdom teeth with minimal discomfort.
There are various reasons as to why a wisdom tooth may need to be removed
- Wisdom teeth may emerge at an angle, affecting the correct alignment of your bite and smile.
- Wisdom teeth can become impacted and not emerge straight – only partially coming through the gum line.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of issues including a distorted bite, decay, and even abscesses.
When do we need to remove wisdom teeth?
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing problems, they are unlikely to improve on their own. Fortunately, a skilled dentist can easily and comfortably remove your wisdom teeth with minimal discomfort.
There are various reasons as to why a wisdom tooth may need to be removed
- Wisdom teeth may emerge at an angle, affecting the correct alignment of your bite and smile.
- Wisdom teeth can become impacted and not emerge straight – only partially coming through the gum line.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of issues including a distorted bite, decay, and even abscesses.
Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The complexity of the wisdom teeth removal procedure varies based on their growth pattern. Local anaesthesia and/or Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is typically used during the procedure, and if an IV sedative is necessary, it is administered by a specialized anaesthetist. General anaesthesia is reserved for extremely complicated cases and is performed in a hospital setting. You should not experience pain during the procedure, although discomfort might occur after the sedative wears off, which can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication.
The need for time off after the procedure depends on the number of teeth being removed and the complexity of your situation. It is advisable to discuss this with your dentist before scheduling the procedure.
Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The complexity of the wisdom teeth removal procedure varies based on their growth pattern. Local anaesthesia and/or Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is typically used during the procedure, and if an IV sedative is necessary, it is administered by a specialized anaesthetist. General anaesthesia is reserved for extremely complicated cases and is performed in a hospital setting. You should not experience pain during the procedure, although discomfort might occur after the sedative wears off, which can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication.
The need for time off after the procedure depends on the number of teeth being removed and the complexity of your situation. It is advisable to discuss this with your dentist before scheduling the procedure.
Recovery after Wisdom Teeth Extraction
After the surgery swelling is expected, the extent of which depends on the number of extractions and their complexity. Typically, swelling peaks around 48 hours post-surgery and takes about a week to completely subside. Some patients may also notice minor facial bruising. Using ice packs after the surgery helps reduce both swelling and bruising. It is common for individuals to experience discomfort during the week following the surgery, which can be alleviated with prescribed pain medication.
Recovery after Wisdom Teeth Extraction
After the surgery swelling is expected, the extent of which depends on the number of extractions and their complexity. Typically, swelling peaks around 48 hours post-surgery and takes about a week to completely subside. Some patients may also notice minor facial bruising. Using ice packs after the surgery helps reduce both swelling and bruising. It is common for individuals to experience discomfort during the week following the surgery, which can be alleviated with prescribed pain medication.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Now
Ready to say goodbye to your wisdom teeth? Book a consultation with our experienced dentists in Auckland to discuss your treatment options and alleviate any concerns.