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Wisdom teeth are usually the last teeth to arrive
at the very back of our mouths. They usually arrive between the
ages of 18-25 (this is a guide), not everyone has them.
Wisdom teeth can cause a few problems when they come through as
they are right at the back of the mouth & are difficult to clean.
This means that the gum surrounding the wisdom teeth may get inflamed,
bleed & be rather sore, making it even more difficult to brush
Sometimes wisdom teeth come through at the wrong
angle, or there is not enough space for them. As a result they become
impacted. Lower wisdom teeth are usually more troublesome than uppers.
The dentist will take x-rays to advise you whether the wisdom tooth
is impacted. If the tooth is likely to give you problems in the
future due to its position & difficulty in cleaning, or if the
tooth is impacted the dentist may advise that it is best to take
the tooth out. The dentists will discuss the best solution for you.
The dentist may refer you to the hospital to have your tooth taken
out. If the tooth is removed in the practice your appointment should
usually last about 30 minutes depending on the position of the wisdom
tooth. X-rays will have been taken to assess the teeth.
The dentist will numb the area completely with local anaesthetic.
You may feel pressure, but should not experience
any discomfort.
You may require stitches to close the socket,
which are usually removed after 1 week.
Once your tooth is removed the dentist will give
you advice on after-care, following tooth removal. It is important
that you read & follow these instructions.
Swelling & discomfort may last for a
few days, you should be completely healed in 2-3 weeks.
When they are coming through you can help to look after them by
rinsing with hot salt water every 4-6 hours while the gum is sore.
Paracetamol or Aspirin will ease the pain (take according to manufactures'
instructions). If the pain persists or you find it difficult to
open your mouth then come & see our dentists. The dentist may
clean the infected tooth & give a prescription of antibiotics.
Once the teeth have come through it is important to brush &
floss them thoroughly.
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