What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molar teeth at the most distal (rear) part of the mouth. Most adults have 4 wisdom teeth, one on each of the 4 quadrants of the mouth. Generally, wisdom teeth erupt between the ages 16 – 25.
How do I know if they need to be removed?
Contrary to what most people think, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed.
At Simply Teeth, we only recommend the removal of wisdom teeth for the following reasons.
- Wisdom teeth not growing in the right direction. If there is insufficient space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to erupt, they can end up growing out horizontally causing impaction. This can lead to discomfort.
- Patient is unable to maintain cleanliness around the wisdom teeth. Due to the far back location and varying position, this can make cleaning around wisdom teeth an impossible task.
- Decay and gum disease around the wisdom tooth. If the area around the wisdom teeth is not kept clean, the gums and the tooth can become infected, leading to discomfort. In serious cases, facial swelling can occur and cause breathing difficulties.
- Wisdom tooth causing patients pain. If the wisdom tooth is causing the patient any form of discomfort.
What does the procedure involve? Are there risks? What is the healing time?
Prior to removing your wisdom teeth, a consult with one of our friendly dentists at Simply Teeth West Perth is arranged. At this appointment, an all round Xray (OPG) may be taken to assess the position of the wisdom teeth as well as key structures such as the Inferior Alveolar Nerve and floor of the sinus.
Our dentists at Simply Teeth West Perth will then discuss the risks and benefits, costs and options available for the procedure to help you make an informed decision.
Risks of removing wisdom teeth include:
- Dry socket (where a blood clot fails to form)
- Nerve injury (could be temporary or even permanent)
- Sinus perforation (a communication is formed between the floor of your nose and mouth)
- Infection of the area
At Simply Teeth, we will ensure that removal of wisdom teeth will be done as painlessly as possible.
In addition, you may elect to include other forms of sedation in addition to local anaesthesia
Alternatively, you can elect to have it done under General Anaesthesia.
Not sure if you need your wisdom teeth removed?
Book a consult with us today so we can answer any queries you have.