Wisdom Teeth

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last (third) set of molars that usually come through (erupt) in your late teens or early twenties. Most people have four—two at the top and two at the bottom.

What does 'impacted' mean?

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that doesn’t have enough room to fully come through. It may grow:

  • At an angle toward another tooth
  • Partially out of the gum
  • Completely trapped under the gum and bone

This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.

Why might wisdom teeth need to be removed?

You may need your wisdom teeth removed if they are:

  • Causing pain or swelling
  • Getting infected (pericoronitis)
  • Damaging nearby teeth or bone
  • Associated with cysts or other pathology
  • Difficult to clean, leading to decay or gum problems

What imaging will i need?

To plan safe removal, I may request special imaging:

OPG - (Orthopantomogram)

This is a wide-view X-ray of your jaws, showing all teeth and their positions.

CBCT (Cone Beam CT Scan)

If the wisdom tooth is close to the inferior dental nerve (which supplies feeling to your lower lip and chin), a CBCT scan gives a 3D view. This helps identify the exact position of the nerve and tooth roots to reduce the risk of nerve injury.

TREATMENT: SURGICAL REMOVAL

The removal of impacted wisdom teeth is a common oral surgery procedure. The type of anaesthesia used depends on:

  • The complexity of the surgery
  • Your personal preference
  • Medical factors such as anxiety or health history

You may have your surgery under:

Local Anaesthetic

You are awake but the area is completely numbed. Suitable for straightforward cases.

Sedation (intravenous or orally)

You are drowsy and relaxed but still conscious. Often used if you're anxious or the procedure is slightly more complex.

General anaesthetic

You are fully asleep. This is used for very complex extractions or if multiple teeth are being removed at once.

Your dentist or surgeon will help you choose the best option for your needs.

What to expect

To plan safe removal, I may request special imaging:

Before Surgery

  • You’ll have a consultation to discuss imaging, procedure, and anaesthetic options
  • You may need to fast if sedation or general anaesthetic is planned
  • You’ll be given pre-operative instructions

During Surgery

  • A small incision may be made in the gum to access the tooth
  • The tooth may be removed in sections to minimise bone removal
  • Stitches may be placed (often dissolvable)

After Surgery

  • You’ll be monitored briefly before going home (same-day discharge)
  • You may need time off work or school (usually 3–7 days)
  • Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are expected

possible risks and complications

While most procedures are straightforward, all surgery carries some risks:

Common Risks

  • Pain, swelling, and bruising
  • Temporary bleeding
  • Jaw stiffness or soreness
  • Infection

Less common risks

  • Dry socket – delayed healing with pain and bad taste
  • Nerve injury – numbness or tingling in the lower lip, chin, or tongue (Often temporary (lasting weeks or months), rarely permanent
  • Sinus involvement – if upper wisdom teeth are close to the sinus cavity
  • Jaw fracture – extremely rare, usually in older patients with weakened bone

post operative care

  • Take any prescribed painkillers or antibiotics as directed
  • Use ice packs to reduce swelling in the first 48 hours
  • Avoid hot drinks, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for 24 hours
  • Eat soft foods and maintain good oral hygiene
  • Follow any specific advice given to you at the clinic

when to contact us

Call your surgical team if you notice:

  • Worsening pain after several days
  • Persistent or heavy bleeding
  • Swelling that doesn’t improve or spreads
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Fever or feeling generally unwell

Questions or concerns

We are here to help. Please speak the me at your consultation, any further advice or clarification.

Download the Patient Information Leaflet

Wisdom Teeth Information Sheet

All the information you neeed. Click to download to your computer or mobile device. 

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