Wisdom Tooth Removal & Dental Extractions

Tooth extractions may be recommended in a variety of situations, including:

• Severe decay or damage: When a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling, crown, or root canal. We will run all of the appropriate tests and discuss with you all options.
• Infections: If an infection cannot be resolved with a root canal or other treatment.
• Periodontal disease: Advanced gum disease that has weakened the supporting structures of the tooth.
• Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth that are stuck below the gum line or growing at an angle, potentially causing pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.
• Overcrowding: To create space for orthodontic treatment or improve alignment.

• Prevent damage to nearby teeth - they are very hard to clean and often cause decay between them and the tooth infront.
• Avoid infections caused by trapped food or bacteria.
• Reduce the risk of cysts or tumors forming around impacted teeth.
• Relieve pain and discomfort from overcrowding or impaction.

1. Your medical history: It is important to inform us of medications and supplements you are taking so we can plan for their effects. Even seemingly insignificant things such as St John's Wort or ginkgo supplements can make a difference to how your body reacts. Call us beforehand if you are on Warfarin or blood thinners, or require antibiotic prophylaxis (strong dose of antibiotics before dental treatment due to heart condition, transplant or increased risk of infective endocarditis) so we can get you ready before your appointment.
2. Think about your long term dental plan: If the tooth is savable, would you want to save it? If the tooth is extracted, would you want to replace your tooth with an implant in the future? This is important as an implant needs good bone, so the extraction process is different and geared towards preserving bone.
3. Have a good meal: Eat 1 hour before your appointment and then give your teeth a good brush. Having higher blood sugar levels helps your body cope during stress.
4. Have some pain relief and soft foods ready: It's best not to need to go shopping straight after. An ice pack straight afterwards can reduce swelling the next day.

Post-extraction care is essential to promote healing and prevent complications. We’ll provide detailed instructions with you in person as well as give you the information in writing, including:

• Managing discomfort with prescribed or over-the-counter medications.
• Tips for proper oral hygiene during recovery.
• What to eat and what to avoid in the days following your procedure. Make sure you have some soft but nutritious foods ready to go.
• Spare sterile gauze for you to take home with you.

For surgical wisdom teeth extractions, swelling and some discomfort is to be expected, so we do recommend you take a few days off of work afterwards to allow yourself adequate time to rest. We can provide a medical certificate for your workplace if required.