Wisdom teeth are the last adult molars (back teeth) that come through usually in your late teens or 20s. Most people will have four wisdom teeth, two upper and two lower- one in each corner. It is possible, however, for some people to have fewer wisdom teeth, and in some cases, none at all.
If wisdom teeth get stuck (impacted) against other teeth or gums due to there not being enough space for them to grow normally, this can leave a flap of gum over the tooth which can lead to pain, infection and a higher risk of problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, as it is more difficult to clean.
Wisdom tooth extraction is recommended by dentists when impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, discomfort, and any of the previously mentioned dental issues.
Having a wisdom tooth removed can be an incredibly stressful procedure for some patients, and we aim to ease those worries as much as we can. If you feel anxious about the procedure, our caring dentists are more than happy to listen to your concerns, and answer any questions you may have. For patients who require more anxiety busting techniques than just a calm environment, we have happy gas (nitrous oxide) available for in-chair procedures.
Happy gas is a safe and reliable way to overcome the fear of having wisdom teeth removed, and is a fraction of the cost of general anaesthetic. It’s a good idea to eat lightly prior to your procedure, and to avoid a big meal for three hours afterwards.
Post-operative care following a tooth removal in Townsville is essential for healing and preventing complications. Your dentist will be able to provide you with a set of post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding certain foods and not smoking.
If your wisdom teeth are coming through and are causing you pain or you notice feelings of discomfort in the back of your mouth, book an appointment to see our dentists in Townsville. We will be able to evaluate your situation, and let you know if wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
Wisdom teeth may need to be removed if they are impacted (stuck beneath the gum line), causing crowding or shifting of other teeth, causing pain or infection, or prone to decay due to their difficult-to-reach location.
