What You Should Expect Before, During, and Your After Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Learn more about dental care by reading our dental blog posts below.

Book An Appointment Or Call : 08 9532 0247

Do you experience jaw discomfort, persistent sore throats, episodes of bad breath, and bleeding gums inside your mouth? Your wisdom teeth are probably the culprits. Problematic wisdom teeth development is widespread, leading many individuals to opt for removal. While some people don’t have any wisdom teeth problems, others may suffer from pain, discomfort, and infection, potentially resulting in more severe complications.

This friendly and informative guide is designed to put readers’ minds at ease by providing a comprehensive understanding of the entire wisdom teeth extraction process. This write-up helps answer common questions on wisdom teeth by learning what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, along with the cost of wisdom tooth removal. Individuals will be better prepared and more confident when the time comes for their wisdom teeth dental journey.

Summary of the Content

  • Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between ages 17 and 25.

  • A wisdom tooth extraction procedure may be necessary due to common reasons such as impaction, crowding, or potential infection.

  • Consultation with an experienced dentist would help to determine if removal of wisdom teeth is required.

  • Pre-procedure preparation includes following instructions on fasting, over-the-counter counter pain medication, and transportation.

  • Types of anaesthesia and sedation options vary based on patient comfort and the complexity of extraction.

  • The procedure involves an incision, removing the tooth, and suturing the area closed.

  • Post-procedure care focuses on recovery, medication management, and oral hygiene.

  • Benefits of wisdom tooth extraction include preventing dental problems, alleviating severe pain, and improving oral health.

  • Possible risks and complications can be minimised by choosing an experienced dental professional and following post-procedure instructions.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

To fully comprehend wisdom tooth extraction surgery, it is essential to understand what wisdom teeth are and their role in our dental health. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop in an individual’s mouth. They typically emerge in the mouth during adulthood between the ages of 17 and 25. However, some people may never develop them at all. Despite being a natural part of our dental anatomy, wisdom teeth are often removed due to complications that arise from their growth due to the inadequate space for wisdom teeth.

In most cases, there is little room at the back of the jaw for wisdom teeth to emerge, or an upper wisdom tooth might emerge sideways from the gum. This can lead to infections or gum tissue damage. For these reasons, specialists in wisdom teeth frequently recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent potential dental problems and maintain optimal oral health.

Many individuals encounter issues with wisdom teeth, leading to various problems inside the mouth. It is essential to have a wisdom tooth assessment performed by a professional dentist and understand the cost of this dental treatment. Common problems or symptoms of wisdom teeth that need to be extracted include:

  • Jaw pain, damage to nearby teeth, and teeth crowding.

  • Tooth decay due to impacted wisdom teeth accumulating saliva, bacteria, and food particles, potentially causing a painful infection.

  • Gum infection from partially erupted teeth, resulting in pain, swelling, bad breath, and difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully.

  • Wisdom teeth pain and erosion of other teeth as wisdom teeth exert pressure while developing.

  • Orthodontic treatments affected by the wisdom tooth can compromise teeth straightening treatments by shifting teeth out of alignment.

  • Prosthetic issues with wisdom teeth needing removal when a patient requires dentures to prevent irritation and subsequent denture adjustments.

  • Cyst formation around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially leading to bone destruction, jaw enlargement, tooth decay, and even fractured jaws if left untreated.

The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the procedure and the type of anesthesia used. A straightforward extraction of all four teeth using local anesthesia in wisdom tooth extraction costs up to $2,300 in Australia. Additionally, removing wisdom teeth under general anesthesia tends to be more expensive, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth.

Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

For your upcoming wisdom teeth removal, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the essential steps leading up to the procedure. Firstly, consultation with a dentist is necessary to assess the condition of the wisdom teeth and determine whether extraction is the best course of action. This is also the best time to ask about the cost of wisdom teeth removal. This appointment may involve X-rays and discussing the patient’s medical history to ensure a safe and successful procedure.

Pre-procedure instructions are another vital aspect of preparation. Patients may be asked to fast for a specific period before the wisdom teeth surgery, usually 8 to 12 hours, depending on the anaesthesia to be used. Also, patients should discuss any medications they take with their dentist, as some maintenance drugs may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued. Arranging transportation to and from the procedure is also essential, as the effects of anaesthesia may render the patient unable to drive safely.

Lastly, patients should be aware of what to bring on the day of the procedure. This may include a list of current medications, a form of identification, and insurance information. Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is also recommended to ensure the patient’s ease during the process.

The Day of the Procedure: What to Expect

Experiencing anxiety during wisdom tooth removal is common. Taking certain measures can help reduce this apprehension and make you feel more at ease during the procedure. Upon arrival at the dental clinic, patients will check in and complete any necessary paperwork. The dental team will then prepare the patient for the procedure, which may involve changing into a gown and monitoring vital signs.

A critical aspect of the process is the selection of anaesthesia and sedation options. Depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient’s comfort level, local anaesthesia, or intravenous (IV) sedation anaesthesia may be administered. In some cases, general anaesthesia might be required. The dental professional will discuss these options with the patient to determine the most suitable choice.

During the procedure, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth if it is impacted. They will then carefully remove the tooth, which may involve dividing it into smaller pieces for easier extraction. Once the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned, and the incision is sutured closed. Extracting all four wisdom teeth may take an hour and a half to complete. However, this can vary depending on the tooth’s position and whether it’s a simple extraction or a more complicated one. By understanding the steps involved on the day of the procedure, individuals can approach their wisdom teeth removal process with greater confidence and assurance.

Post-Procedure Care

Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions ensures a smooth recovery from wisdom teeth removal. Here are key points to consider:

  • Rest:
    Take time off to rest and recover.

  • Ice application:
    Use ice or a cold compress or ice pack applying firm pressure over the jaw to reduce swelling and discomfort.

  • Wound care:
    Avoid disturbing the wound to prevent irritation, bleeding or having an infected wisdom tooth site.

  • Oral hygiene:
    Gently brush your teeth after wisdom tooth extraction and rinse your mouth, initially using tepid salt water and letting it fall out without swishing or spitting. Avoid brushing, flossing, swishing, or spitting within the first 24 hours post-procedure.

Aftercare instructions typically cover the following:

  • Physical activities:
    Resume normal daily activities the day after wisdom teeth extraction but avoid vigorous or strenuous activity that could dislodge the blood clot.

  • Food and drink:
    Drink plenty of water, avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot foods or beverages, and abstain from drinking through a straw or consuming irritating, spicy or crunchy food for a week after surgery. It is best to adhere to a soft diet consisting of foods that require little to no chewing, such as soups and porridges, for the next few days after surgery.

  • Pain management:
    Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.

  • Bleeding, swelling, and bruising:
    Expect improvement within two or three days. After 24 hours, rinse with warm salt water every two hours to promote healing.

  • Smoking:
    To decrease complications, it is recommended to avoid smoking for 24 hours and chewing tobacco for one week, as these substances can delay healing.

  • Stitches:
    Be aware that stitches may dissolve on their own or require removal by the dentist in a follow-up appointment.

Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure a successful recovery from wisdom teeth extraction.

When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?

Whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary depends on several factors, as not all individuals require extraction. Removal is often recommended when wisdom teeth are impacted, causing pain, crowding, or misalignment of surrounding teeth. Additionally, suppose wisdom teeth are only partially erupted or difficult to clean. In that case, they may become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to gum disease or tooth decay. In such cases, extraction can prevent further oral health issues.

On the other hand, there are cases where wisdom teeth can be left alone. If the teeth fully erupt, are properly aligned, and do not cause discomfort or oral health problems, they may not require removal. Some individuals may even have wisdom teeth that never develop or remain dormant within the jawbone, in which case extraction is typically unnecessary.

It is crucial to consult with a dental professional to assess the condition of the wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is the best course of action based on each individual’s unique circumstances. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor the development and positioning of wisdom teeth, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

Benefits of Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Deciding to remove wisdom teeth can offer several benefits that improve dental health and overall well-being. Firstly, extracting problematic wisdom teeth can prevent future dental problems such as crowding, misalignment, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. This proactive approach helps maintain a healthy smile and reduces the need for later orthodontic intervention or treatments.

Secondly, removing troublesome wisdom teeth can alleviate severe pain and discomfort caused by impaction or infection. Patients who experience ongoing issues with their wisdom teeth can find relief by undergoing the procedure, allowing them to regain normal function and enjoy their daily lives without pain.

Another benefit of wisdom teeth removal is the improvement of oral hygiene and overall health. When wisdom teeth are difficult to clean or partially erupt, they can harbour bacteria and food debris, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. By removing these problematic teeth, patients can maintain better oral hygiene, reducing the risk of wisdom tooth infection and contributing to a healthier mouth.

Lastly, removing wisdom teeth can help avoid complications associated with impacted or partially erupted teeth. These issues can include the formation of cysts, tumours, or bone damage. By addressing these problems early through extraction, patients can protect their oral health and minimise the chances of encountering complications down the line. The benefits of wisdom teeth removal can significantly contribute to a healthier smile and improved quality of life.

Possible Risks and Complications

Potential dental complications and risks of damage are associated with wisdom tooth removal, ranging from simple to complex extractions. Factors to consider include:

  • Swelling, bruising, and bleeding:
    Depending on the extraction’s complexity, more complex extractions often result in more severe symptoms.

  • Longer healing process:
    Waiting to remove wisdom teeth can increase the potential for problems, as the bone surrounding the tooth becomes denser with age.

  • Dry socket:
    A condition affecting less than 5% of people after tooth extraction; it occurs when the blood clot protecting the bone and nerves is dislodged or dissolves, exposing them to external elements.

You may be more likely to experience dry sockets if you:

  • Smoke
  • Have poor oral hygiene
  • Have wisdom teeth pulled
  • Experience severe trauma during tooth extraction
  • Use birth control pills
  • Have a history of dry sockets

Your dentist will provide post-operative care instructions to alleviate any pain or discomfort caused by the procedure, including the formation and preservation of the blood clot, which is crucial for proper healing.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal are common procedures many individuals undergo to address impaction, crowding, or potential infection. Patients must be well-informed about the fees for wisdom tooth removal, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their dental care. Patients can approach their wisdom teeth extraction with confidence and peace of mind by understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

From consultation and pre-procedure preparation to the day of the surgery and post-operative care, being well-informed about each step is essential for a successful outcome. While there are potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, these can be minimised by choosing experts in wisdom teeth and following post-procedure instructions.

Our compassionate team at Byford Smiles is an excellent choice for those considering wisdom teeth removal or concerns about oral health. Our knowledgeable and experienced staff is committed to providing exceptional care and guidance throughout each individual’s dental journey. For those seeking better oral health, schedule a consultation with Byford Smiles today, so that we can help you go towards your dream of a beautiful and more confident smile.

Recent Blogs & News

Our experienced team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable
dental experience every time you visit our practice.

Need Urgent Dental Care?

Give Us A Call Now Or Book Online.