What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt through the gums and are also called ‘third molars’. They generally push through the gums when people are in their late teens or early twenties. Most people will have four wisdom teeth, however it is not unusual for people to have less, none at all or even extra ones!
Do my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. However, in a large number of cases removal avoids associated dental complications such as:
- Impacted wisdom teeth causing damage to neighbouring teeth
- Infection from wisdom teeth spreading to surrounding gum tissue and teeth. In some cases neighbouring teeth may be lost, leaving opposing teeth with nothing to bite against!
- Pressure from wisdom teeth has been associated with overcrowding of front teeth
- Cavities and gum infections caused because wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean
An OPG (a full mouth x-ray) is used to assess and diagnose the best course of treatment. If you do need to get wisdom teeth removed, it is best to get this done as early as possible to prevent potential problems.
Wisdom teeth can either be removed in the chair at bc dental or under a general anaesthetic in a day hospital. The level of surgical difficulty, tooth impaction and patient anxiety will be assessed in a consultation to determine which options of removal and anaesthesia will suit you best. If you have any questions or concerns about treatment these can be addressed at your consultation.
Click here to see After care instructions for Extractions
Click here to see After care instructions for Surgical Extractions
read more