Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Howick
Wisdom teeth (third molars) may cause pain and infection if there is inadequate space for them to grow properly. When this happens, they often become impacted inside the bone or under neighbouring healthy teeth. To eliminate your pain and risk of recurring complications, wisdom tooth removal is usually recommended.
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Sedation During Your Oral Surgery
Dr Pulkit Kinra takes added measures to ensure your safety and relaxation during every procedure, especially wisdom tooth extractions. In most cases, he performs the surgery under intravenous (IV) or oral sedation for added comfort. Since you’ll be drowsy for a few hours, it’s important to have someone accompany you to and from the appointment.
Recovering After Wisdom Tooth Removal
We recommend stocking up on soft, cool foods, such as yogurt, smoothies and ice cream. For the first few days, do your best to eat a soft diet and remain hydrated. Dr Pulkit will also provide you with special care instructions to improve your recovery and reduce the risk of swelling or bleeding after your extractions.
To ease your recovery time, we will also prescribe medications to help manage inflammation and post-operative discomfort. Always be sure to take your medicine as directed. You can contact us at any time if you are experiencing significant discomfort or signs of an infection (such as a dry socket).
Frequently Asked Questions
Having a maximum of 32 teeth, wisdom teeth are the last set to come through at the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, but sometimes even later. Due to smaller jaw sizes, most people lack enough space for all 32 teeth. As a result, the wisdom teeth may not have enough room to properly come through if all other teeth are present and healthy.
What is an impacted Wisdom Tooth?
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there isn’t enough room for it to fully emerge, causing it to become stuck against the tooth in front of it. The angle and position of the impacted tooth can vary, indicating the difficulty of its removal.
How can I alleviate discomfort from Wisdom Teeth?
To reduce gum soreness and inflammation in hard-to-reach areas, rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater or antiseptic mouthwash can be helpful. Over-the-counter painkillers like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can also provide temporary relief.
Are Wisdom Teeth challenging to extract?
The ease or difficulty of extracting each wisdom tooth depends on its position and root shape. After reviewing X-ray results, your dentist will inform you about the anticipated level of complexity. Generally, upper wisdom teeth are easier to remove than lower ones, which are more prone to impaction. In rare cases, the removal of a lower tooth may lead to temporary or permanent numbness of the lip or tongue. Your dentist will inform you if this is a possibility.
What should I expect after Wisdom Tooth extraction?
Post-extraction discomfort varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. Swelling and mild discomfort may persist for a few days, and following your dentist’s instructions regarding mouthwashes and home care will aid in healing. Painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can help manage any pain. It is advisable to rest and avoid vigorous activities for 24 hours post-extraction to prevent complications like bleeding. Stitches may be used to promote gum healing.
Do Wisdom Teeth always cause problems?
No, if there is sufficient space, wisdom teeth can emerge into proper positions without causing more issues than any other tooth. While slight discomfort during eruption may occur, it is usually temporary and subsides once the tooth is fully in position.
If a wisdom tooth partially emerges through the gum while remaining partially covered, the gum may become sore and swollen. Inadequate cleaning due to food particles and bacteria collecting under the gum edge can be challenging. Your dentist will advise whether this is a temporary issue that can be managed with mouthwashes, special cleaning techniques, and possibly antibiotics, or if extraction is the better course of action.
What if self-care methods don’t provide relief?
If pain persists or you experience difficulty opening your mouth or recurring infections around the crown of the tooth, medication or extraction may be necessary. Consult with us for appropriate treatment options.
What are the main reasons for removing Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth may need removal under various circumstances, including repeated infections, decay in the wisdom tooth or adjacent teeth, gum disease caused by the wisdom tooth, cysts or tumors developing around the wisdom tooth, or when the wisdom tooth obstructs surgical procedures.
Will Wisdom Teeth extraction affect my face or mouth appearance?
While there may be some temporary swelling for a few days following wisdom teeth removal, once the area is fully healed, there will be no noticeable changes to your face or appearance.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
Why might my impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed?
How will I feel after wisdom tooth removal?
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge 3D intraoral scanning tools, allowing us to capture a full view of your oral and skeletal anatomy. Dr Pulkit will evaluate your scan to determine whether third molar removal is recommended.
Reserve a one-on-one appointment at A+ Dentists today for more information.
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