Minor Oral Surgery

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars to come through usually around the late teenage years. Occasionally there isn’t enough space behind the second molars leaving the wisdom teeth to become ‘impacted’ either partly or fully. 

Where the wisdom tooth has partially erupted through the gum but doesn’t have enough space to come through completely,  there can be pain due to entrapment of bacteria and food under the flap of gum. This may also lead to swelling of the gum and an unpleasant taste or smell. 

Food and bacterial impaction in the area may lead to decay of the wisdom tooth and the second molar adjacent to it which in severe cases may require root canal treatment. 

Occasionally fully impacted wisdom teeth can also cause discomfort. We closely monitor these teeth for treatment if necessary. 

Before any tooth removal, a clinical and radiographic evaluation is carried out to identify the potential risks. 

Our patients’ comfort is our highest priority. At the consultation appointment, we will discuss the likely complications of surgery and suitability of having treatment with Local Anesthetic or IV sedation based on the degree of complexity of the procedure. 

The recovery time for a wisdom tooth extraction is usually a few days and occasionally some dissolvable stitches may be placed at the site of surgery to aid the recovery. If you are having trouble with your wisdom teeth, please make an appointment to see us at the clinic.