Underwood (07) 3219 9806 Calamvale (07) 3273 3220

Wisdom Teeth

Is removal necessary?

Discover your options with our comprehensive
examinations and effective treatments

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the final set of molars (back teeth) that typically emerge from your gums during late adolescence or early adulthood. These teeth earned their name because they appear when a person is considered to be more mature and “wiser.”

What can go wrong with wisdom teeth?

A common issue with wisdom teeth is that not everyone has enough jaw space for the wisdom teeth to move into. In this case, the wisdom teeth can only partially emerge from the gums. Additionally, wisdom teeth may not always emerge the right way and have been known to come out in a backwards or horizontal position.

xray

Why consider removing wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary, but it may be recommended for these reasons:

Risk of infections:

Food and plaque can accumulate around partially erupted wisdom teeth, leading to chronic infections of the tooth and gums.

Potential damage:

When wisdom teeth emerge at awkward angles, they can put pressure on adjacent teeth or irritate the soft cheek tissues, potentially causing damage.

Oral hygiene challenges:

Since wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, they can be hard to clean even with regular brushing and flossing. Poor oral hygiene in this area can lead to tooth decay and cavities. These risks can be minimised by extraction, which is good for your oral health in the long run.

What are the misconceptions about wisdom teeth?

The reputation of wisdom teeth extraction has been influenced by stories of difficulty and complications. While it’s true that their root shapes can make extraction complex in certain cases, the majority of extractions are straightforward and uncomplicated. Unfortunately, negative experiences tend to receive more attention, contributing to the misconceptions surrounding wisdom teeth removal.

What is the Healthy Smile Dental approach?

At Healthy Smile Dental, we prioritise your well-being. If we determine that your wisdom teeth require a more complex extraction, we will refer you to an oral surgeon who specialises in these cases. This ensures that you receive the most effective care, tailored to your unique needs.

Frequently asked questions

Can wisdom teeth cause headaches?

Yes, wisdom teeth can cause headaches. Some individuals may experience these due to pressure and inflammation from impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth.

Can wisdom teeth cause ear pain?

Yes, wisdom teeth can cause ear pain. As wisdom teeth are relatively close to the ear, issues with them can create referred pain, which may be felt as discomfort in and around the ear.

Can wisdom teeth change face shape?

Yes, impacted wisdom teeth may contribute to changes in face shape over time. As they exert pressure on surrounding teeth and tissues, this can shift or crowd other teeth and even lead to alterations in jaw structure, which can impact facial appearance.

Will I recover quickly after wisdom teeth removal?

The speed of healing after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person. Generally, healing takes around 1 to 2 weeks. Following post-operative instructions, proper care and a healthy diet can help promote a faster and smoother recovery.

How does wisdom teeth extraction work?

Wisdom teeth removal involves numbing the area, making an incision if necessary, removing the tooth and stitching if needed. Usually, a dentist or oral surgeon performs the procedure.

Will wisdom teeth removal hurt?

During the wisdom teeth removal procedure, you will be under local anaesthesia or, if necessary, other forms of sedation to minimise pain. After the procedure, some discomfort and swelling are normal, but pain can be managed with prescribed pain relievers.

Do my wisdom teeth really need to come out?

In some cases, it’s possible to keep your wisdom teeth if they are healthy, properly aligned and not causing any issues. Our dentists can assess whether keeping or removing them is the best option for your oral health and comfort.

Can wisdom teeth cause sepsis?

Yes. In rare cases, untreated infections associated with impacted or infected wisdom teeth can potentially lead to sepsis, a severe and life-threatening condition. It’s important to address any signs of infection promptly and follow our dentist’s advice for treatment.

Call us for consultation or pain relief

dental check up

If you have pain, discomfort, swelling, or other signs of problems with your wisdom teeth, don’t delay. Book a consultation with us as soon as you can and get the care you need at our branches in Underwood (07) 3219 9806 or Calamvale (07) 3273 3220. Regain your oral comfort and peace of mind.