Wisdom teeth are the third molars, the last teeth at the back of the mouth. They usually come through between the late teens and mid-twenties. Some come through fully and cause no problems. Others do not have enough room and become stuck in the jaw (impacted), come through at an angle, or only partly come through.
Common problems
A partly erupted wisdom tooth leaves a flap of gum that is hard to keep clean, and the gum around it can become infected and swollen (pericoronitis). Food and plaque trapped in the area can lead to decay in the wisdom tooth or in the tooth in front of it. An impacted tooth can cause pain or pressure at the back of the mouth. Less commonly, a cyst can form around an impacted tooth.
Does every wisdom tooth need to come out?
No. Wisdom teeth that have come through fully, are healthy and can be kept clean are often left in place and checked at regular visits. Removal is usually considered when a wisdom tooth is causing repeated infection, decay, damage to the neighbouring tooth or other problems, or is likely to.
How wisdom teeth are assessed
A panoramic X-ray (OPG) shows all the teeth and jaws in one image, including the position and angle of each wisdom tooth. The roots of lower wisdom teeth can lie close to the nerve that supplies feeling to the lip and chin. When this appears likely, a 3D Cone Beam CT scan shows the relationship between the roots and the nerve more clearly.
Wisdom teeth at White Pearl Dental Care
Wisdom teeth are assessed at the practice in Blacktown with an OPG, and a Cone Beam CT scan where needed, both taken in the clinic. Straightforward wisdom teeth are removed at the practice under local anaesthetic. Higher-risk cases, such as deeply impacted teeth or teeth very close to the nerve, are referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Risks
Like any surgical procedure, wisdom tooth removal carries risks. These include swelling, bleeding, infection, dry socket (when the blood clot is lost from the socket) and, uncommonly, numbness of the lip, chin or tongue, which is usually temporary.
Health funds
Many health fund extras policies contribute to extractions, including wisdom teeth. All major health funds are accepted, with HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Book a consultation
1st Floor, 5 Patrick Street, Blacktown, next to Westpoint. Call (02) 8814 9888 or book online.