Wisdom Teeth Removal
Safe Removal of Wisdom Teeth at Newtown Dental

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. For some people, these teeth grow in without issue. However, for many, wisdom teeth can cause problems because there isn’t enough space in the mouth for them to emerge properly. This often leads to impacted teeth, which can cause pain, infections, and other complications.

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but extraction is often recommended when the teeth cause problems, such as:

• Impaction
  Wisdom teeth can become trapped below the gum line (impacted), which can cause pain, swelling, and infections. Impacted teeth can also damage nearby teeth.
• Crowding
  When there isn’t enough room in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to come in properly, they can push against other teeth, causing crowding or misalignment.
• Tooth Decay
  Wisdom teeth are often difficult to clean because they’re located at the back of the mouth. This can lead to tooth decay or gum disease, necessitating removal.
• Infection
  Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to painful infections that may spread if not treated.
• Cysts or Tumours
  In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts or other growths in the jaw, which can damage surrounding teeth and bone.

If your dentist recommends wisdom teeth removal, it’s important to act promptly to avoid complications.

At Newtown Dental, wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure performed by our experienced team, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

1. Initial Consultation and X-Rays
   During your consultation, we’ll conduct a thorough examination, including digital X-rays, to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether extraction is necessary.
2. Local Anesthesia and Sedation
   We’ll administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. For patients who feel anxious, we offer sedation options like IV sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you stay relaxed throughout the procedure.
3. Tooth Removal
   For fully erupted wisdom teeth, a standard extraction may be sufficient. For impacted teeth, a surgical extraction is often necessary, which involves making a small incision in the gum to access and remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
4. Stitches and Aftercare
   After the extraction, we may use stitches to close the incision. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you manage any discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery.

Recovering from wisdom teeth removal is usually straightforward, but proper aftercare is essential to avoid complications. Here’s how to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Manage Bleeding
  Gently bite down on gauze to control bleeding. Replace the gauze as necessary until the bleeding subsides.
• Pain Relief
  Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort. If necessary, we may prescribe stronger pain relief.
• Cold Compresses
  Apply ice packs to the outside of your jaw to reduce swelling and numb the area, particularly in the first 24 hours after surgery.
• Soft Foods
  Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking
  For at least 48 hours, avoid using straws and smoking, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing.
• Oral Hygiene
  Be gentle when brushing near the extraction site, and rinse your mouth with warm salt water after the first 24 hours to keep the area clean.

We’ll provide you with a full set of aftercare instructions and are available to answer any questions during your recovery.