Wisdom Teeth Surgery – How the Procedure is Performed?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars that emerge during the late teen or early adult years. When wisdom teeth grow in straight, they cause no problems, but it’s common for them to grow crooked or even become impacted below the gumline. 

When wisdom teeth develop at an angle, they can push the rest of your adult teeth out of alignment. Some people don’t have enough room in their mouths to accommodate the extra set of molars, while others experience tooth decay, gum disease and other dental issues such as malocclusion. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but others may have only one, two or three. 

If you experience discomfort or other dental issues caused by these molars, your dentist may recommend that you have wisdom teeth surgery. 

How is Wisdom Teeth Surgery Performed?

Wisdom teeth can require a simple or a complex extraction depending on the number of teeth to be extracted, whether they are above or below the gum line, and their growth angle. 

Simple extractions are performed for teeth that are visible above the gum line. A simple extraction requires a local anaesthetic and is much like having any other tooth pulled. Simple extractions are completed at your regular dentist’s practice.  

A surgical extraction is more complicated because the tooth that needs to be extracted is impacted, meaning it’s still below the gumline.

Once the anaesthesia is in effect, the wisdom teeth removal begins. Your dentist makes an incision in the gum to expose the impacted tooth. Sometimes, your dentist may need to cut the tooth into small sections, so it is easier to remove. Once the procedure is complete, your dentist stitches up your gums. These stitches are normally dissolvable, so you won’t need to return to have them taken out. 

For half an hour to one hour after a complex wisdom teeth removal, you need to keep gauze in place over the surgical site. Doing so helps to prevent a secondary condition called dry socket by encouraging a blood clot to form. After one hour, the gauze should be replaced periodically as needed to absorb any residual bleeding. Minor bleeding up to 24-48 hours after surgery is normal. 

What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

After your operation, there are specific instructions for care and cleaning provided by your dentist that you must follow. In the days following complex wisdom teeth removal surgery, you cannot bend down, jump, or exercise vigorously. Any of these actions may dislodge the blood clot. You should also refrain from smoking, drinking through a straw, and eating hard or chewy foods. 

You can apply ice packs periodically to the side of your face to manage the swelling. Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. For complex wisdom teeth removal, your dentist may prescribe something stronger. 

Sure Smile Dental Can Help 

Our dentists routinely perform wisdom tooth extractions at our practice. Whether you require a simple or complex wisdom tooth extraction, we can prepare you for a comfortable wisdom teeth surgery with the option of sedation dentistry. Call us today on (07) 3185 2387 to schedule an initial appointment today. 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.