We always try to keep a natural tooth first. Extraction is recommended when a tooth is too decayed or broken to repair, loose from advanced gum disease, needs to make room for braces, or is a wisdom tooth pushing on its neighbour and causing repeated pain and swelling.
Tell your dentist beforehand
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart valve problems
- Regular medication, especially blood thinners or bone medication
- Any drug allergies, and if you are pregnant
- Eat beforehand: you will be biting on gauze for a while afterwards
When should a wisdom tooth come out?
A wisdom tooth is impacted when bone or the tooth in front stops it erupting fully. Food gets trapped, the gum over it gets inflamed, and it can cause decay in the neighbouring molar. Your X-ray shows whether and when removal makes sense. Some wisdom teeth that come in straight and can be cleaned are fine to keep.
Aftercare
- Bite firmly on the gauze for as long as advised; don’t spit or rinse on day one
- A cold compress on the cheek early on reduces swelling
- Soft, lukewarm food; avoid drinking through a straw
- No smoking or alcohol while it heals
- Finish any medication and return for suture removal if you had stitches
- Contact us straight away if bleeding won’t stop, swelling increases after day three, or you get a fever
Common questions
How long does wisdom tooth surgery take?
It depends on the tooth’s position and depth; the dentist will explain after reviewing your X-ray. Deep teeth or those close to the nerve are handled by our oral surgery dentist.
Should I replace an extracted tooth?
For chewing teeth and front teeth, usually yes, with an implant, bridge or denture, so the neighbouring teeth don’t drift into the gap.
