Impacted Wisdom Teeth

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Safe and pain-free removal of impacted wisdom teeth to prevent issues.

About the treatment

An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when a wisdom tooth does not have enough space to fully emerge or grows in at an improper angle. This can cause pain, swelling, infection, and misalignment of nearby teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, typically between the ages of 17 and 25, and impaction is a common issue due to limited jaw space.
While some impacted wisdom teeth cause no immediate symptoms, many require removal to prevent complications such as infections, cysts, and damage to neighbouring teeth.

Causes of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth become impacted when they fail to erupt properly due to lack of space or improper positioning.

Insufficient Jaw Space – The jaw may be too small to accommodate additional molars.
Abnormal Growth Direction – Wisdom teeth may grow sideways, at an angle, or fail to break through the gums.
Genetics – If parents experienced wisdom tooth impaction, there is a higher likelihood of developing the same condition.
Late Eruption – Wisdom teeth often try to emerge when other teeth are already fully developed, causing crowding and misalignment.

Types of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

The tooth is partially covered by gums.
Can lead to infection and gum inflammation (pericoronitis).

The tooth is partially trapped in the jawbone.
May cause pain, swelling, and difficulty cleaning the area.

The wisdom tooth is fully embedded in the jawbone and cannot erupt.
Requires surgical extraction if it causes pain or infection.

Signs & Symptoms of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth

While some impacted wisdom teeth remain symptom-free, others cause significant discomfort and oral health issues.

Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth.
Swollen, red, or bleeding gums near the wisdom teeth.
Jaw stiffness or swelling in severe cases.
Bad breath and unpleasant taste due to trapped food and bacteria.
Difficulty opening the mouth fully.
Headaches or earaches from jaw pressure.
Crowding or shifting of other teeth due to pressure from the impacted tooth.

Complications of Untreated Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause serious dental problems, including:

Infections (Pericoronitis) – Bacteria trapped around the tooth can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty chewing.
Cysts or Tumours – Fluid-filled sacs may develop around impacted teeth, damaging the jawbone and nerves.
Tooth Decay & Gum Disease – Partially erupted wisdom teeth are hard to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum infections.
Crowding & Misalignment – Impacted wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment.

Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If an impacted wisdom tooth is not causing pain or problems, regular monitoring with X-rays and dental exams is recommended.
Some wisdom teeth remain impacted without complications, eliminating the need for extraction.

Local or general anaesthesia is used for a comfortable procedure.
The tooth is surgically removed to prevent future complications.
Post-extraction healing typically takes 7-10 days.

Antibiotics and pain relievers can help manage swelling and infection.
Saltwater rinses and good oral hygiene help keep the area clean.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Aftercare

Proper aftercare ensures smooth healing and reduces complications.

Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and using straws to prevent dry socket.
Eat soft foods (soups, yoghurt, mashed potatoes) for the first few days.
Rinse gently with salt water to keep the area clean.
Take prescribed medications as directed for pain and infection prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

No, wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, healthy, and not causing issues do not need removal.

At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is most commonly done between ages 17-25, before complications develop.

Is wisdom tooth removal painful?

No, the procedure is done under local or general anaesthesia, ensuring a painless experience. Some discomfort is normal during recovery.

How long can a dead tooth stay in the mouth?

Most patients recover within 7-10 days, with swelling subsiding after 2-3 days.

How long does recovery take after wisdom tooth extraction?

It may lead to infection, pain, gum disease, tooth decay, and misalignment of other teeth.

Can I work or go to school after wisdom tooth removal?

It’s best to take at least 1-2 days off, as swelling and discomfort may persist.

Can wisdom teeth cause headaches or ear pain?

A dental exam and X-ray can confirm whether your wisdom teeth are impacted.

What foods can I eat after wisdom tooth removal?

Stick to soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and yoghurt. Avoid hard, spicy, or crunchy foods for the first few days.

What is dry socket, and how can I prevent it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot dislodges, exposing the bone and causing severe pain. To prevent it, avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or vigorous rinsing after surgery.

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Interested in a whiter smile? Contact us to discuss your options.

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Impacted Wisdom Teeth

About the treatment

Causes of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Types of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

Signs & Symptoms of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Complications of Untreated Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom Tooth Removal Aftercare

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Get in Touch

You are in good hands

Book Online

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