Wisdom Tooth Removal
Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last teeth to erupt in your mouth. Some individuals don’t have any issues with their wisdom teeth, but others can experience pain and discomfort if the molars didn’t erupt properly from the gum line.
Because they are the last teeth to emerge, the mouth often doesn’t have enough room to accommodate them.
Also, they can be trapped underneath the gum tissues by adjacent teeth or bone. These trapped teeth are called “impacted wisdom teeth”, and they can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness.
Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Not all wisdom teeth require extraction, as some of them can develop properly just like any other teeth in your mouth. However, if these teeth are causing you active problems such as pain, decay, or infection, they require removal. If impacted wisdom teeth are left untreated, a number of harmful dental problems can develop, including the following:
Damage to the adjacent teeth – the adjacent teeth of third molars can be affected by the impaction, causing tooth decay, gum disease, and possible bone loss.
Infection – impacted teeth are not easy to clean; thus bacteria and food can become stuck under the gum tissue. This can then lead to infection, which can cause pain and other serious health issues.
Disease – in serious cases, cysts and tumours can develop in the areas surrounding impacted molars.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure
Your dentist will first conduct a thorough examination of the third molar and surrounding teeth. X-rays will be taken to accurately determine the position and location of the teeth. The dentist will also determine if current problems exist or if there are potential future problems to watch out for.
Once you’re determined to be a good candidate for wisdom tooth surgery, the dentist can proceed to the procedure. A local anaesthetic is give to make the procedure comfortable and painless. For anxious patients, sedation dentistry may also be recommended. Once the area of the impacted tooth is numb, the extraction procedure begins.
Wisdom Tooth Aftercare
Post-operative instructions are crucial for a patient’s safety and recovery. These are given by your dentist right after the procedure to help you recover faster and avoid complications. The following aftercare tips can help reduce pain and assist your recovery:
- Take your prescribed medications
- Avoid strenuous activities and work outs for a few days
- For 24 hours following the surgery, avoid spitting, rinsing, drinking hot drinks, or any activities that may dislodge the blood clots
- Don’t smoke and drink
- Use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated
- Eat soft or liquid for a couple of days
- After 24 hours, gently rinse extraction site with antiseptic mouthwash or warm water with a teaspoon of salt.
The Link Between Smoking and Wisdom Tooth Complications
Smoking is not advisable for patients who have undergone wisdom tooth procedure. This can directly delay your healing process and can result in other complications.
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According to the American Dental Association (ADA), smoking can also affect your sense of taste and smell and delay your recovery after a tooth extraction or other dental procedure.
In addition, the tar from cigarette smoke stains your teeth, causes bad breath and can discolour your tongue. The only way to remove these stains is with a professional cleaning in the dentist’s office.
Wisdom Tooth Removal in Cardiff
At Cardiff Dental, we have the skills and equipment to address serious dental problems such as impacted wisdom teeth.
If you suspect that you have impacted teeth, we highly encourage you to visit us as soon as possible so we can recommend the best course of action for your problem.
Cardiff Dental is equipped with the latest technology in dentistry and comprised of highly skilled dental professionals.
Our Special Offer
At Cardiff Dental, our goal is to make quality dental care affordable. We encourage you to take advantage of our latest offers.
Wisdom Tooth Removal in Cardiff
To find out more, visit our special offers page.
Contact us now on (02) 4954 6888 or make an appointment online TODAY!
Call (02) 4954 6888 or request an appointment today.