Wisdom Teeth Removal

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Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. This occurs typically in the late teenage years or the early twenties. It is common to have between one to four wisdom teeth.

Often there is insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt fully and they are referred to as being ‘impacted’.

What are the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth can often cause problems including:

  • Pain and discomfort - Due to insufficient space for the teeth to erupt fully into the mouth

  • Decay - Food may become trapped between the impacted wisdom teeth and neighbouring teeth leading to decay

  • Infection - Plaque and debris caught underneath the gum overlying the partially erupted wisdom tooth results in inflammation within the surrounding soft tissues

  • Cyst formation - A sac of fluid forms around the wisdom tooth, enlarges and potentially displaces the tooth leading to bone destruction and damage to other teeth

  • Resorption of neighbouring teeth - The wisdom tooth pushes against neighbouring teeth resulting in serious damage to both teeth

How do you treat impacted wisdom teeth?

Your Dentist may refer you to Dr Chellappah to surgically remove your impacted wisdom teeth.

At your initial consultation, Dr Chellappah will take a thorough history, perform a comprehensive examination and review any x-rays of your mouth which your Dentist may have organised. He will advise if any further investigations are required.

Dr Chellappah will explain to you the options to remove your impacted wisdom teeth and discuss the procedure and any associated risks in depth. He will also advise you of what to expect in the post-operative period.

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What does Wisdom tooth extraction involve?

Dr Chellappah will make an incision to open the gums to remove the wisdom tooth. A small portion of bone may need to be removed to that Dr Chellappah can get to the tooth. The tooth may have to be divided into segments so it can be removed easily and safely. The incision in your gums may need to be closed with stitches. Dissolvable stitches are used and these dissolve within 1-2 weeks.

Where will I have my wisdom tooth surgery?

Depending on the severity of the impaction and your personal circumstances, you may have the option of having your wisdom teeth removed on the day of your initial consultation. This will be performed under local anaesthesia with injections to numb the teeth, gums and adjacent structures so you do not feel any discomfort.

More often though, it is necessary to have impacted wisdom teeth removed in hospital under general anaesthetic. You will be asleep for the duration of the procedure. You will be admitted on the day of your procedure and usually will be discharged the same day following the procedure if you are well.