What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in our mouths. These teeth usually come out during our late teens or early twenties; for some, they can become a source of discomfort and pain. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of wisdom teeth, their purpose, and what you should do if you experience any issues with them.
Purpose of Wisdom Teeth
The primary purpose of wisdom teeth is to help us chew and grind food. Our ancestors needed these teeth to eat raw and tough foods. However, as our diets have evolved over time, our jaws have become smaller, and we no longer need these teeth. In some cases, wisdom teeth can grow in without any problems and function just like any other teeth in our mouths. However, for many people, there is no space for these teeth to come through, and these teeth can cause various issues.
Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth grow in correctly, they can be a valuable asset to our dental health. However, for many people, these do not grow in the right spot. Either they remain partially or fully impacted, or they come to an unfavourable angle, making it practically impossible to maintain hygiene around. Making them more susceptible to decay and gum problems around them. These teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and other problems. One of the most common issues associated with wisdom teeth is overcrowding. When there is not enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to grow in, they can push against other teeth and cause alignment issues. This can lead to pain and difficulty chewing. Additionally, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they grow at an angle and do not fully emerge from the gums. This can cause infection and damage to surrounding teeth and gums.
Challenges Associated with Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Wisdom teeth surgeries can be challenging due to their location at the back of the mouth and the angle at which they grow.
The lower wisdom teeth are in close proximity to an important nerve called the Inferior Dental Nerve which provides sensation to the whole lower jaw, and on the other hand the upper wisdom teeth are in close proximity to the sinuses. You dentist will take a full mouth Xray (OPG Xray) to rule out the risk of injuring any important surrounding structures before the surgery is . This can make it difficult to access the teeth and increase the risk of complications such as nerve damage or infection. Additionally, some people may experience anxiety or fear about the procedure, which can make it more challenging to perform. However, with the right sedation options and proper aftercare, these challenges can be minimized and a pain-free procedure can be achieved.
What to Do if You Have Issues with Wisdom Teeth
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, it is essential to see a dentist. They can take x-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, your dentist may suggest removing your wisdom teeth to prevent further problems. However, not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Your dentist will evaluate your situation and help you make an informed decision.
Pain-Free Wisdom Teeth Extraction
If you’ve ever had your wisdom teeth extracted, you know how painful it can be. But it doesn’t have to be that way anymore! With the latest advancements in dental technology and anaesthesia, wisdom teeth extraction can be pain-free. Moreover, our dentists take utmost care and very gentle that your surgery is pain-free and comfortable for you.
We have successfully been able to do 100s of pain-free wisdom teeth extraction. Please check our google reviews from our satisfied patients who have had these
procedures.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
After the Wisdom teeth extraction, it’s essential to take care of your mouth to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some tips to follow:
- Bite down on the gauze for about 30-45 minutes after the procedure to help stop any bleeding.
- Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling.
- Take any prescribed pain medication as directed to manage any discomfort.
- Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days after the procedure.
- Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site, and rinse your mouth with salt water from the next day to keep it clean.
- Do not spit or rinse your mouth on the day of the procedure.
The nurse will provide a full written copy of post-operative home care instructions to follow on the day, and you can contact us anytime if you have any questions. As part of our surgeries, we cover any follow-up appointments at no cost to you if needed.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people undergo. However, the cost of wisdom teeth surgery can vary depending on several factors. This may include, Number of teeth extracted, the position of the tooth, the Angle and anatomical shape of the tooth, and the difficulty of surgery.
On average, at our Dental practice, Upper wisdom teeth extraction costs between $390-$490 each, and Lower wisdom teeth extractions costs between $390-$690 each.
In rare cases, we need to perform more time-consuming and challenging surgeries to remove wisdom teeth, and these may cost around $790 or more.
All the costs will be discussed and approved with you before the surgery appointment is scheduled or performed.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth are a natural part of our dental anatomy, but they can cause problems for some people. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, it is essential to see a dentist. With proper evaluation and treatment, you can maintain optimal dental health and prevent further complications.
Wisdom teeth extraction doesn’t have to be a painful experience. With the right numbing and proper aftercare, you can ensure a pain-free procedure and a smooth recovery. Talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about your options and follow their instructions for aftercare to ensure the best possible outcome. Remember, a pain-free extraction means a happier, healthier you!
Why choose Sunnynook Dentist for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At Sunnynook Dentist, our team of experienced and compassionate dentists and dental specialists in North Shore, Auckland are committed to providing you with care that is both thorough and personal.
We focus on educating you regarding your dental options
Our team of dentists and specialists will take the time to make sure you fully understand all your treatment options, as well as their associated costs, benefits and risks.
Hear from our patients
We think it’s important to let you know what people with similar needs or concerns have said about their experience with Sunnynook Dentist, so we invite you to read through our reviews page.