Wisdom Teeth EXTRACTION

Wisdom teeth are rear molars that erupt last, usually around the late teens or early 20s. There are normally two wisdom teeth in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw.

Wisdom teeth can cause various dental problems. Sometimes it will be recommended that problematic and painful wisdom teeth be removed.

Common problems of wisdom teeth

  • Wisdom teeth infection – In some cases, there may not be enough room in the jaw for wisdom teeth. This can make brushing and flossing these teeth very difficult. Food and bacteria will build up between the wisdom tooth and its neighbouring molar, therefore decay and gum infections are more likely.

    The symptoms of an infection caused by a wisdom tooth may include: reddened, inflamed gums alongside the wisdom tooth, swelling, pain, fever, pus coming from the gums, sore lymph glands under the jaw, and difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth.

    Infections caused by wisdom teeth can be treated, but the infection will keep coming back unless the teeth are removed. People with pre-existing health problems and compromised immunity can suffer serious complications from these infections.

  • Cheek biting and chewing problems – Crowded wisdom teeth may grate against the cheek, causing ulcers on the cheek and chewing problems.

  • Impaction – Impaction is where the wisdom tooth erupts at an angle and pushes into the next tooth or the gum. A wisdom tooth that grows on an angle can’t contribute to chewing, making it useless as well as potentially painful.

Morgan Street Dental Centre Dental Emergency - Woman with Dental Tootache Problem waggadentistemergencydental
Morgan Street Dental Centre Wisdom Teeth Extraction - Dental X-ray with Extracted Teeth wisdomtooth

Wisdom tooth extraction, where required, is best performed sooner rather than later.

Using x-rays, our clinicians can determine which wisdom teeth need to be removed. Sometimes, a person may need all of the wisdom teeth extracted. The operation may be performed in the chair using local anaesthetic or in an operating theatre under general anaesthetic, depending on the complexity of the problem.

If you are experiencing any issues associated with your wisdom teeth, speak with our team to arrange a consultation.

Disclaimer: Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary. Photos in our online gallery are of actual patients of our practice who have provided consent to display their pictures online. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.