Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are usually the last teeth to emerge, typically appearing in your late teens or early twenties.
While some people live happily with them, for many, they can become a source of pain, infection, and crowding. At Sundial Dental, we provide comprehensive assessment and removal services across our Mid North Coast clinics to ensure your smile remains healthy.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
The primary issue with wisdom teeth is a lack of space. By the time they arrive, most adult teeth are already established. This often leads to the tooth becoming “impacted”—trapped beneath the gum or bone because there isn’t enough room for it to erupt properly. An impacted wisdom tooth might grow at an odd angle, pushing against your other molars, or only partially break through the gum, creating a flap of tissue where food and bacteria can get trapped.
Signs You May Need Removal
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, but extraction is often recommended if you experience:
- Pain or swelling at the back of the jaw.
- Red, inflamed gums around the emerging tooth.
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste caused by infection.
- Difficulty opening your jaw or chewing.
- Crowding or damage to the adjacent teeth. Even if you aren’t currently in pain, we may recommend removal as a preventative measure if X-rays show the teeth are likely to cause damage, decay, or cysts in the future.
The Procedure: What to Expect
We understand that the idea of “surgery” can be daunting. Our team is experienced in making the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.
- Assessment: We take a specialised OPG (panoramic) X-ray or 3D scan to see exactly where the roots are sitting relative to your nerves and jawbone.
- Comfort: The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic to ensure you are numb. For anxious patients, we can discuss sedation options.
- Removal: For a simple extraction, the tooth is loosened and removed. For an impacted tooth, a small incision is made in the gum, and the tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Recovery: We provide detailed post-operative instructions to help your socket heal quickly and minimise swelling.
A Focus on Prevention
Many dental professionals recommend assessing wisdom teeth in your late teens or early 20s. At this age, the roots are not yet fully formed, and the surrounding bone is softer, making the procedure often straightforward and the recovery faster than it is for older adults.
