Why is Wisdom Teeth Removal Recommended?
Do wisdom teeth always need to be removed?
Not necessarily! Wisdom teeth do not always need to be extracted. However, if they start causing symptoms like pain, inflammation, swelling, or infection, it is often an indication that they should be removed. We also consider extraction for orthodontic reasons, such as creating space for treatment, or when food gets trapped between the wisdom tooth and its neighbour.
Why is Wisdom Teeth Removal Recommended?
If you are a local in Mount Waverley or live right here in Wheelers Hill, you may be wondering if that slight discomfort in the back of your jaw is something to worry about. Wisdom teeth often emerge in our late teens or early twenties, and while some people have no issues, others experience a range of symptoms that require professional attention.
Our Specialist Oral Dentist, Dr Shady Abdelsalam, explains the various reasons why wisdom teeth removal is sometimes the best course of action.
Common Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Pain and Inflammation
The most common sign that something isn’t right is localised pain or inflammation around the back of the jaw. This can be accompanied by swelling or even a minor infection, which are clear indicators that the wisdom tooth is causing issues.
Orthodontic Considerations
Sometimes, wisdom teeth need to be removed for orthodontic reasons. If you are undergoing a smile transformation with Invisalign, we may need to create a little extra space in your jaw to allow your other teeth to shift into their ideal positions.
Food Trapping and Hygiene Issues
Because wisdom teeth are so far back in the mouth, they can be difficult to clean properly. This can lead to food debris getting stuck between the wisdom tooth and the neighbouring tooth, which may cause periodontal pocketing or even decay over time.
Rare Lesions or Cysts
In very rare cases, lesions or other issues can develop around the wisdom teeth that necessitate their removal to protect your overall oral health.
What to Expect During the Removal Process
A Range of Comfort Options
We understand that the thought of an extraction can be stressful. That is why we offer a variety of comfort levels, from local anaesthetic while you are awake to a more controlled setting under general anaesthesia. This is part of our commitment to sleep dentistry for our community.
A Thorough and Professional Procedure
During the procedure, we numb the area around the tooth to ensure there is no sharp pain. We then make a small flap in the gum to carefully extract the tooth. We focus on being as gentle as possible, and you may only feel a little bit of pressure.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Once the tooth is removed, we typically use dissolvable sutures that do not need to be taken out later. We will provide you with thorough instructions on how to care for the area over the first few weeks to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Ready to Talk About Your Wisdom Teeth?
If you are experiencing any discomfort or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, come and have a chat with us. We are a family-run practice right here in Wheelers Hill, and we are always happy to help our local community find the best solution for their oral health.
Give us a bell on (03) 7302 2228 or book your consultation online today. Let’s get it sorted!
DISCLAIMER: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
