Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come through, usually in the late teens or early twenties. Not all of them cause trouble, and not all of them need to be removed. The first step is an assessment of what yours are actually doing.
Removal may be advised where a wisdom tooth is impacted, repeatedly infected, decayed, damaging the tooth in front, or associated with a cyst. Where a wisdom tooth is healthy and cleanable, monitoring it may be the reasonable course.
Your dentist will assess the position, the roots and their relationship to nearby structures using X-rays, and will explain what is likely to happen if the tooth is left in place as well as what removal involves.
At Parramatta Dentistry | Cosmetique Dental, new and existing patients can request a wisdom teeth assessment at our Hunter Street practice.
Removing a wisdom tooth is a surgical procedure, so the reason for doing it should be clear. Your dentist will explain the specific problem the removal is intended to solve and how urgent it is.
Some wisdom teeth are straightforward to remove in a dental chair. Others, such as deeply impacted teeth or roots lying close to the nerve or the sinus, are better managed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, sometimes under sedation or general anaesthetic. Where that applies, your dentist will refer you rather than proceed.
Your medical history matters here. Blood-thinning medication, other regular medicines and existing medical conditions can all affect the plan, so bring an up-to-date list to your appointment.
Your dentist will outline the sequence for your particular case. Appointment numbers and timing depend on the position of the teeth, how many are being removed and where the procedure is carried out.
Discuss your symptoms and your dental and medical history. X-rays, and sometimes a 3D scan, are used to assess the position and the roots. There is no obligation to proceed with treatment.
Review whether removal, monitoring or referral is appropriate, how many teeth are involved, and whether local anaesthetic, sedation or a general anaesthetic is recommended for you.
Your team will explain how long to allow, what to eat beforehand, whether you will need someone to drive you home, and how much time off you may need.
The area is numbed. Depending on the position of the tooth, the gum may need to be opened and the tooth removed in sections. Stitches are sometimes placed.
Swelling, discomfort and limited jaw opening are common and usually peak in the first two to three days. You will be given written aftercare instructions and advice on pain relief.
Attend the review recommended for you so healing can be checked and any stitches removed. Contact us earlier if something does not feel right.
Fees depend on how many teeth are removed, how difficult each removal is, whether the tooth is impacted, and the type of anaesthetic or sedation used. Your dentist will provide a personalised plan and explain the proposed charges before you decide.
Where treatment is carried out in hospital or under a general anaesthetic, there are usually separate fees from the surgeon, the anaesthetist and the facility. These will be explained to you as part of the referral.
Health fund rebates vary between policies and levels of cover. Bring your details to the consultation so the out-of-pocket estimate can be discussed with you.
Call (02) 8090 1109 to arrange your assessment.
You will be given specific instructions on managing bleeding, keeping the area clean, what to eat and what to avoid. Following them closely in the first few days matters more than anything else you can do.
Contact us if bleeding does not settle, if pain increases rather than eases after the third day, if you develop a fever, or if you cannot open your mouth or swallow comfortably. These can be signs that the site needs attention.
Removing a wisdom tooth is surgery and carries risks. These include bleeding, infection, dry socket, prolonged swelling, bruising and limited jaw opening. Most settle with time and appropriate care.
Because of where wisdom teeth sit, there is a risk of temporary or, less commonly, permanent altered sensation in the lip, chin or tongue from nerve proximity, and upper wisdom teeth can involve the sinus. Your dentist will explain the risks specific to the position of your teeth before you consent.
Damage to adjacent teeth or fillings, and the need for a further procedure if a root fragment is retained, are also possible. Leaving a problematic wisdom tooth in place carries its own risks, and your dentist will set both sides out so you can make an informed decision.
Request our price guide as a starting point, then speak with us about an itemised quote for your individual care. We will explain what is included and any additional treatment that may be needed.
