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KITCHENER STREET DENTAL
Are your wisdom teeth causing you pain?
Providing you with a suitable, personalised treatment plan.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Toowoomba
Also known as ‘third molars’, wisdom teeth normally make their first appearance in young adults.
They can cause a multitude of problems from the moment they appear, until they are removed.
Wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and pain for a number of different reasons whether they are fully erupted, partially, or impacted. Although not all people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed, it is important to have your wisdom teeth assessed by a dentist to determine whether or not they are in a position that can damage neighbouring teeth, cause infection within the surrounding bone and soft tissues. Wisdom teeth may also need to be removed prior to orthodontic treatment.
What causes wisdom teeth pain?
Essentially, the main problem with wisdom teeth comes from the lack of available space to accommodate. Subsequently this can lead to overcrowding and cramped condition causing pain and infection within the surrounding bone and soft tissues which can cause swelling to the surrounding soft tissue and facial area.
Why wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary
The causes for the associated problems with wisdom teeth arise from the build-up of plaque and subsequently bacterial breeding. Fluid filled cysts can develop in the affected area and jaw and gum disease may ultimately develop if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention for an assessment if you are noticing any of the following symptoms.
Wisdom teeth symptoms:
- Jaw pain at the back of the mouth
- Odd taste in the mouth
- Pain or irritation
- Bad breath
- Headaches
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding or tender gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
Wisdom teeth removal
Through the treatment available at Kitchener Street Dental, our team of dental professionals can help to effectively eliminate your associated wisdom teeth problems, with the extraction of the teeth themselves, leaving you free from pain and infection for the long term.
How to soothe wisdom teeth pain prior to your appointment
If you are finding that the pain you are experiencing from your wisdom teeth is difficult to bear, you may benefit from the following tips to soothing your wisdom tooth pain:
Pain relief medication
A simple resolution would be to take an over-the-counter pain relief medication. Ask the pharmacists advice regarding the most appropriate pain relief and recommended dose. DO NOT place any pain relief medications against the tooth itself. This can damage the hard and soft tissue in the mouth.
Practice a good oral health routine
We recommend that you keep the area as clean as possible to avoid further infection or irritation.
Rinse your mouth with warm salty water. Warm salty mouth rinses can also help to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Emergency Dentist Toowoomba
Are you in a lot of pain? At Kitchener Street Dental, we cater for emergency dental appointments on a daily basis. All you need to do is to contact us and our friendly and highly trained reception staff can assist you with your inquiry and concerns.
For any further information on wisdom teeth extraction and the range of treatment options available to you at Kitchener Street Dental, please do not hesitate to contact us on 07 3184 8462.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to remove my wisdom teeth?
Not necessarily. If your wisdom teeth have grown in a normal position and is not giving you any dental problems or pain, then you won’t have to remove it. Only wisdom teeth that are problematic are extracted as this is usually the only way to alleviate the pain and problems.
Is removing a wisdom tooth safe?
Most wisdom tooth extractions are straightforward and won’t necessarily cause harm to the patient. In some very rare cases, the extraction process can take its toll (even on adult patients) and some complications (with anaesthesia, etc.) can arise but overall the risks are at a minimum.
How are wisdom teeth removed?
If the tooth is healthy, is in its correct position, and isn’t causing harm to the surrounding teeth, your general dentist can simply loosen it and then pull it out. If the tooth is impacted, you will need to undergo a surgery in which the gums are slit open so that the surgeon has access to the jaw and the tooth can be carefully and effectively pulled out. The tooth can also be removed in sections to avoid affecting the surrounding areas and teeth.
Why are wisdom teeth more difficult to remove than other teeth?
Wisdom teeth do not often grow in like your other teeth. If they are impacted, they have a more angled position and will need to be sectioned into pieces when extracted. If the tooth as not yet erupted, your dentist will need to make an incision in the tissue before accessing the tooth.
Similarly, the wisdom teeth’s root anatomy contributes to the process of extracting it. Wisdom teeth typically have multiple roots and they can be shaped in a variety of ways, as well as grow separately or fused together. Teeth with irregularly shaped roots or curvature are a little more complicated to extract, particularly on the lower jaw. This is because of the close proximity to the nerve.
I have impacted wisdom teeth, do I need to remove them?
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a number of dental problems and often requires prompt removal, however there are some patients who go their entire lives without ever experiencing any issues with their impacted teeth. If your impacted wisdom teeth are not causing pain or affecting the growth and stability of the other teeth, then chances are you won’t need to have it extracted.
Does everyone have wisdom teeth?
Actually, no. It is not unheard of for people to have only two or three wisdom teeth developed, sometimes none at all! In fact, 35% of people do not develop wisdom teeth. People who do get their wisdom teeth may need to have them removed to avoid certain dental problems, such as swelling and overcrowding.
How many wisdom teeth need to be removed?
The number of wisdom teeth to be removed varies based on factors like oral anatomy and positioning. While most individuals have four wisdom teeth, the need for removal depends on potential complications such as impaction, pain, infection, crowding, or inadequate space in the mouth. Dental professionals, guided by evaluations and X-rays, determine the necessity for wisdom tooth removal to ensure oral health and prevent future issues. Regular check-ups aid in monitoring wisdom tooth development and receiving personalised recommendations.
How long does it take to completely heal and return to normal activity?
The duration for complete healing and returning to normal activities following wisdom tooth removal varies based on factors like extraction complexity and individual healing rates. Initial recovery involves managing swelling, discomfort, and bleeding during the first few days, with noticeable improvements typically seen within one to two weeks. Complete healing of the extraction site, including gum tissue remodelling and bone regeneration, occurs over several weeks to months. Most individuals can resume work and light activities within a week or two, but strenuous physical activities should be avoided for a few weeks. Adhering to post-operative instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and consulting a dental professional for any concerns contribute to a smoother recovery process.
How long is the procedure likely to last?
The duration of a wisdom tooth extraction procedure can range from around 20 minutes to an hour, depending on factors like the complexity of the extraction, the number of teeth being removed, and individual anatomical considerations. Simple extractions of fully erupted wisdom teeth may take about 20 to 30 minutes, while more complex cases involving impacted or surgically removed teeth can extend from 45 minutes to an hour or more. Your oral surgeon or dentist will provide a more precise estimate based on your specific situation, ensuring you're well-informed before the procedure.
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