If your wisdom teeth are impacted in your gums or crowding your teeth, they need to be extracted as soon as possible.
Our dentists in Fremantle can even remove wisdom teeth before they have fully erupted, so you or your children don’t have to worry about them causing problems in the future.
Who needs wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems, but if you don’t have enough space in your mouth for extra teeth or your wisdom teeth are trapped in your gums, they can become impacted and cause serious problems for your oral health.
These wisdom teeth are the last to develop and usually erupt after the age of 18. At On Point Dental we can extract wisdom teeth at any age, even while they are still developing and are easier to remove.
What are the benefits of wisdom teeth removal?
Early wisdom teeth removal is a preventative measure that can help you or your child avoid possible oral health issues later in life.
We also recommend wisdom teeth removal if these teeth are:
- Trapped in your gum (impacted)
- At risk of causing infection
- Crowding your other teeth
- Causing food to become trapped
- Making it difficult to brush and floss.
How are wisdom teeth removed?
We will take x-rays of your mouth during your consultation for wisdom teeth removal to determine the best course of treatment.
Wisdom teeth that are fully emerged can sometimes be removed with general extraction, loosening and pulling the tooth without the need for surgery. Local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort.
However, if your wisdom teeth are stuck in the gums or have not yet emerged, we will need to open the gum to access the jaw and remove the tooth in pieces. This is a more complex dental procedure that may be performed under IV sedation or general anaesthesia.
Post wisdom teeth removal surgery
After your wisdom teeth have been removed, there are a few aftercare instructions to be mindful of.
- After surgery, gently bite into a gauze pad to soak up blood. If the area continues to bleed after 24 hours, contact your dentist immediately.
- Avoid biting the insides of your mouth, tongue or lips.
- Avoid consuming hot food or drinks.
- In 20-minute intervals, apply an ice pack to your cheek to avoid swelling.
- Enjoy soft foods like soup, smoothies, jelly and yogurt for the first few days, before introducing harder foods back into your diet.
- Do not vigorously rinse out your mouth within the first 24 hours, as this can dislodge the blood clots. After this time, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Avoid drinking through a straw for 72 hours after surgery, as it can dislodge the blood clot.
- Avoid smoking until your mouth has completely healed.
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. Be careful not to brush over the blood clot for the first 72 hours.
Wisdom Teeth Removal – FAQs
Do you have to remove wisdom teeth?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it’s a common procedure when these third molars cause issues.
The purpose of wisdom teeth, located at the back of the mouth, was historically related to chewing raw plant-based foods. However, due to changes in diet and evolution, many people now experience complications when these teeth emerge.
Wisdom teeth often don’t have sufficient space, leading to impaction, crowding, or misalignment. When wisdom teeth cause pain, swelling, or infection or pose a risk to adjacent teeth, removal becomes necessary.
Consulting with a Fremantle general dental clinic, like On Point Dental, is crucial for personalised assessment, as they can determine whether your wisdom teeth require removal based on your individual dental health and any existing complications.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect issues with your wisdom teeth, book an appointment today to ensure timely and appropriate care.
What happens to your face shape before and after wisdom teeth removal?
The impact of wisdom teeth removal on face shape is generally subtle. Before the removal, especially if the wisdom teeth are impacted or cause crowding, some individuals may experience facial swelling or discomfort.
It’s important to note that the primary focus of removing wisdom teeth is to address oral health concerns rather than significantly altering facial features. After wisdom teeth removal, any initial facial swelling or discomfort typically subsides within a few days to a week.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
Wisdom teeth removal is generally not painful during the procedure due to the administration of local anesthesia, ensuring you’re comfortable and pain-free. However, it’s common to experience some discomfort and swelling during the initial stages of wisdom teeth removal and recovery. The level of pain can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the extraction and individual pain tolerance.
Patients with HBF dental insurance can often benefit from coverage for wisdom teeth removal, easing the financial aspect of the procedure. The recovery period involves following post-operative care instructions provided by the general dental services team. This typically includes prescribed pain medication, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and adhering to a soft-food diet during the initial days.
At On Point Dental in Fremantle, our experienced team prioritises patient comfort and provides comprehensive general dental services, including wisdom teeth removal. Book an appointment today!
How much does it cost to remove wisdom teeth?
While the primary consideration for removing wisdom teeth is oral health, it’s normal to be concerned about the cost of wisdom teeth removal. The cost can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the extraction and whether sedation is required.
Many general dental services, including wisdom teeth removal, are covered by dental insurance providers such as HBF or Bupa. No insurance coverage? No worries. Our wisdom teeth removal cost is very reasonable – call us today at 9430 4181 to get a quote.
At On Point Dental in Fremantle, we provide comprehensive general dental services, including wisdom teeth removal. If you have concerns about the cost or the procedure, scheduling a consultation with our experienced dental team can provide personalised information and options tailored to your specific needs.
What to eat after wisdom teeth removed?
After removing wisdom teeth, it’s crucial to follow a soft-food diet during the initial stages of the recovery period to avoid irritation or discomfort at the extraction sites. Opt for easy-to-chew, nutritious foods that are gentle on the healing areas.
Here’s a list of soft foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal:
- Blended Soups: Choose smooth and lukewarm soups like pumpkin or tomato soup.
- Yoghurt: Soft, plain yoghurt or yoghurt-based smoothies are excellent sources of nutrients.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes without any chunky additions.
- Pudding or Custard: These desserts are gentle on the healing areas.
- Oatmeal: Cooked and soft oatmeal offers a warm and soothing meal.
Remember to avoid hot or spicy foods, seeds, crunchy snacks, and anything that requires extensive chewing.
Maintaining proper nutrition and hydration is essential for a smooth recovery process in the aftermath of wisdom teeth removal.
If you have specific dietary concerns or need further guidance on the list of soft foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal, consult with our Fremantle dentists at On Point Dental for personalised advice and support.
How long does wisdom teeth removal take?
The duration of a wisdom teeth removal procedure can vary depending on factors such as the number of teeth being extracted, their position, and the complexity of the extraction.
On average, a single wisdom tooth extraction may take about 20 to 30 minutes. However, if multiple teeth are being removed or if the extraction is more intricate, the procedure may take longer. Patients with HBF dental insurance can often have wisdom teeth removed covered under their plan, which can alleviate the financial aspect of the procedure.
After the wisdom teeth removal, the recovery period is crucial. While the extraction itself is relatively quick, patients should plan for a few days of rest during the wisdom teeth removal aftermath to allow for proper healing. Following post-operative care instructions, including prescribed pain medication, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and adhering to a soft-food diet, can contribute to a smoother recovery.
If you have questions about the duration of the wisdom teeth removal procedure or the recovery process, our team at On Point Dental in Fremantle is happy to answer them!
How long to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period from wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person but typically spans about a week. Immediately after removing wisdom teeth, it’s common to experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding, which gradually subside within the first few days.
Adhering to post-wisdom teeth removal care is crucial for a smoother recovery. This includes following prescribed pain medication, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and maintaining a soft-food diet during the initial days to avoid irritation to the extraction sites. Good oral hygiene practices, such as gentle brushing and rinsing with a saltwater solution, also contribute to a faster and healthier recovery from the aftermath of wisdom teeth removal.
Call us today for personalised guidance on wisdom teeth removal recovery and post-wisdom teeth removal care! Our experienced dental professionals are here to provide support, answer any questions you may have, and ensure a comfortable and efficient recovery process.
How to reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal?
Reducing swelling after wisdom teeth removal is essential for a comfortable recovery. If you notice signs of infection or persistent swelling, it’s crucial to contact your dentist promptly.
For general post-wisdom teeth removal care, consider the following steps:
- Apply Cold Compress: Use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth on the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time. This helps minimise swelling and numb the area.
- Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated, especially while sleeping, to minimise blood flow to the head and reduce swelling.
- Take Prescribed Medication: Follow your dentist’s prescription for pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications as directed to manage pain and swelling effectively.
- Gentle Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with a saltwater solution. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, especially in the first 24 hours.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but avoid using straws during the initial recovery period, as the sucking motion can disrupt the healing process and lead to increased swelling.
For persistent or worsening symptoms, including infected gums after wisdom tooth removal, book an appointment today – our friendly and gentle team will be more than happy to help.
Why are experts now saying not to remove your wisdom teeth?
The decision on whether to remove wisdom teeth depends on individual factors, and some experts are now considering a more conservative approach, particularly if the wisdom teeth are not causing issues.
While removing wisdom teeth is a common procedure, it’s not always necessary. Factors such as the position of the wisdom teeth, their impact on adjacent teeth, and the risk of future problems influence the decision. Some argue that if the wisdom teeth are not causing pain, infection, or other complications, leaving them in place might be a viable option.
It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks, considering factors like the cost of wisdom teeth removal and individual oral health. Regular check-ups at our Fremantle general dental clinic will allow our friendly dental team to assess the condition of your wisdom teeth and provide personalised advice based on your oral health needs.
If you have concerns or questions about wisdom teeth removal, our dental professionals can help guide you through the decision-making process, taking into account factors such as cost, potential risks, and overall oral health.
