Wisdom Teeth Surgery

Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

Wisdom teeth are the common names for the 3rd molars. These teeth normally begin to erupt into the mouth between the ages of 16 and 21 years. The eruption process is often accompanied by temporary pain which settles once the tooth erupts into its functional position. For some people, wisdom teeth are unable to erupt or function fully, and these people may experience continuing pain, gum disease, or accelerated tooth decay.

Indications for removal

There are a host of indicators that a patient may need their wisdom teeth removed, and a host of reasons that leaving wisdom teeth that have not erupted in a functional pattern may cause concerns for an individual.

Among the indicators that a patient may require their wisdom teeth to be removed, there are:

  • Recurrent infection or pain
  • Decay
  • Periodontal (Gum) disease
  • To protect adjacent molars from future damage
  • Associated pathology
  • Involvement in trauma
  • Food trapping
  • Ulceration

What does the surgery involve?

Due to the issues that a non-functional eruption of wisdom teeth can cause for individuals, the timing of wisdom teeth removal surgery is often one that needs to be carefully planned out. As we’ve discussed, the eruption of the third molars normally occurs anywhere between the ages of 16 and 21 years of age, and a suitable point for the patient or individual in question will be discussed with you when you visit our surgery.

To that end, wisdom teeth removal surgery will usually happen:

  • When you have developed symptoms of pain or bleeding around the tooth
  • When your dentist has diagnosed dental disease such as gum disease or pathology
  • When it becomes clear that the wisdom tooth may cause issues to your oral health and other teeth
  • As part of an orthodontic treatment plan
  • Prior to orthognathic surgery
  • Prior to overseas deployment
  • Prior to a professional career in contact sports

What does the surgery involve?

The removal of wisdom teeth can range from a relatively simple procedure that can be performed under local anaesthetic, through to relatively complex surgery requiring a general anaesthetic. Your specialists will discuss the surgery involved in the removal of your wisdom teeth at the time of your consultation and tailor a plan to suit your needs. At Capital Oral and Facial surgery we can perform your surgery under any method of anaesthetic. This includes local anaesthetic, Nitrous Oxide, Intravenous (IV) sedation, or General anaesthetic

How long do I need off work or school?

Every patient recovers differently from surgery. As a general rule it will take 5-7 days to recover from your procedure and our team will make sure you have the appropriate certificates to verify your condition.

What are the risks of surgery?

When you consult with our surgeons they will discuss the relative risks and benefits of any proposed procedures. Every procedure has risks and these risks are always balanced against your individual needs and treatment requirements.