Tooth Extraction (Wisdom Tooth)

What is wisdom tooth extraction?

The third molar, better known as the wisdom tooth, sits right at the back of the mouth and usually comes through between the ages of 17 and 25. When the jaw has no room for it, the tooth stays buried or pushes through at the wrong angle, sometimes sideways, sometimes under the gum. If it cannot be brought into the right position, extraction comes onto the table.

Not every wisdom tooth has to go. The ones that sit properly and cause no trouble are left alone. Extraction is for when the position or the state of the tooth starts causing problems.

When does it need to come out?

The most common reason is a buried tooth pressing on its neighbor. Beyond that, there is recurring gum inflammation and pain, decay that cannot be controlled because the surface is out of reach, cysts or follicular growths, and sometimes the need to make room before orthodontic treatment.

How is the extraction done?

Imaging comes first. An x-ray shows exactly where the tooth is and whether the instruments can reach it. The procedure runs under local anesthesia, so you feel no pain while it happens. The method depends on the position of the tooth.

A tooth that has erupted comes out the standard way. A buried one needs an incision in the gum, after which the tooth is divided into pieces and removed, and stitches are sometimes needed. This kind of extraction usually takes 20 to 40 minutes.

Recovery

The bleeding stopping and a clot forming over the socket is the first step in healing. That clot needs to stay put for at least 24 hours. After the extraction we suggest the following:

• Do not poke the area with your tongue or fingers
• Skip spitting and rinsing on the first day
• Stick to cold or lukewarm food and drink
• Do not smoke
• Take painkillers and antibiotics as prescribed
• Some swelling and discomfort in the first few days is normal; a cold compress helps

Possible risks

In experienced hands, serious complications are not expected. Still, it is worth mentioning that extractions close to the lower jaw nerve can leave a temporary numbness. There is also a small chance of dry socket, and following the aftercare advice lowers that risk.

When extraction is not suitable

If there is inflammation in the area, that gets treated first and the extraction waits. A serious health condition needs to be assessed by a specialist. During pregnancy, extraction is put off unless it is truly necessary.

At Positive Dental Studio we look carefully at your mouth and your x-ray before a wisdom tooth extraction; once we can see how the tooth relates to the surrounding tissue, we plan the approach that suits you and send you off with care advice for your own case.