Wisdom teeth are often referred to as the third molars and typically begin to appear in the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may never experience any pain or discomfort from their wisdom teeth, others require surgery to have them removed because they become troublesome in the mouth.
Complications in the mouth due to wisdom teeth are far from unusual. Because the teeth are so late to develop, there is usually not enough space for them in the mouth, and this can lead to wisdom teeth pain. At No Gaps Dental, we have a reputable team of dentists who are all capable of performing a thorough examination to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
Wisdom Teeth Removal – What to Expect
Typically, there will be an initial consultation prior to the actual wisdom teeth removal procedure. Once it has been determined that you need your wisdom teeth removed, it may feel a bit overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can help to ease any pre-surgery anxieties.
First, the dental professional will thoroughly assess your mouth to determine whether or not they can perform the surgery, or as in some more complex situations, if a referral to an oral surgeon will be required. If you have any questions or concerns, we will be more than happy to address all of them at this time.
They will most likely take X-rays, and if you are a new patient at No Gaps Dental, we will discuss prior family medical and dental history. It will be important for the dentist to know things like whether you’re prone to heavy bleeding or if you are taking any medications.
Wisdom Teeth Removal – the Procedure
If the dentist decides that they can perform the surgery, the appointment will be scheduled as soon as possible. On the day of the appointment, you will be administered a local anesthetic, which allows you to remain awake but blocks out the pain. If you decide that you are feeling extra nervous, intravenous sedation will be offered to you as well.
In many cases, wisdom tooth removal is similar to any other tooth removal and is a fairly straightforward procedure. However, sometimes the wisdom teeth can become impacted, and this makes the procedure more complicated. Impacted wisdom teeth refer to situations where the tooth grows in an abnormal way under the gum and typically causes discomfort.
A partially erupted wisdom tooth means it has erupted through the gum as it should, but only partially.
Most cases of impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth require an incision to the gums to remove the tooth. Additionally, it may be necessary to break the tooth up into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove.
After the Procedure – What to Expect
F0r the first few days following your procedure, you will likely be advised to stay home and rest. Pain after your wisdom teeth removal, light bleeding, and moderate swelling are all typical occurrences. You will be given instructions by the dentist who performs the procedure as to post-surgery care. This may include over-the-counter medications for wisdom teeth pain, ice packs, and soft foods. You may also be prescribed a pain reliever and antibiotics.
Pain After Wisdom Teeth Removal – Complications
As with any medical or dental procedure, there are sometimes complications that can arise. Here at No Gaps Dental, our dental team is highly trained in wisdom teeth removal, and we can assure you that we do everything we can to make the procedure go as smoothly as possible for you and ensure you are comfortable.
Should complications arise for you, we will be available to help you navigate through them as quickly as possible. Risks and complications involved with wisdom teeth removal include:
- Infection – signs of infection include persistent pain after wisdom teeth removal, fever, yellow or white discharge in the mouth, and persistent swelling. In most cases, when an infection develops, you will be prescribed an antibiotic. If you suspect there might be an infection in the area, it is important to consult with your dentist immediately.
- Dry Socket – Dry socket is one of the most common complications following wisdom teeth removal. It refers to when the blood fails to coagulate and clot at the removal site, causing an ache and throbbing pain in the jaw and gum line. This can occur 3-5 days following your procedure. You’re more likely to experience dry socket if you don’t follow your post-operative directions or if you smoke cigarettes. This will require that you return to the dental practise so that the dentist can flush out the area and apply a medicated dressing.
- Nerve Damage – Although less common than dry socket, nerve damage is a possible painful complication following wisdom teeth removal. Nerve damage is indicated by pain, tingling, and numbness in the mouth. Nerve damage may take a while to heal, up to a few months, and if the damage is severe enough, it can sometimes be permanent.
Most wisdom tooth extractions, even those that involve complications after the procedure, do not result in long-term complications. Discuss any concerns you might have with your dentist prior to your procedure.
Final Thoughts
Here at No Gaps Dental, we have 15 locations serving patients in the greater Sydney area and beyond. We have more than 35 skilled dental professionals who possess knowledge and skill when it comes to a wide range of dental practises, including wisdom teeth removal.
If you are nervous about the procedure, or just want to speak with someone about the process further, feel free to stop by any of our locations or contact us via phone today at (02) 8007 6727. We look forward to working with you!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.