Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and usually erupt in the late teens or early twenties. While some people can have these teeth grow in without any issues, many experience pain and discomfort due to lack of space in the mouth or improper alignment. In such cases, it is often recommended to have the best wisdom teeth removal. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of having your wisdom teeth removed in Melbourne.
Key Takeaways:
- Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to develop and can cause pain and discomfort if there isn’t enough space in the mouth.
- There are several reasons why a dentist or oral surgeon may recommend the removal of wisdom teeth, including crowding, impaction, infection, and cysts/tumors.
- The procedure for removing wisdom teeth typically involves a local anesthetic and making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
- Benefits of wisdom teeth removal include pain relief, improved oral health, reduced risk of complications, and improved overall health.
- Recovery after wisdom teeth removal involves taking pain medication as prescribed, applying ice packs, eating soft foods, avoiding smoking/straws, and attending follow-up appointments.
- The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Melbourne can vary, but on average ranges from $225 to $1000 per tooth.
- It’s important to follow a dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions after the procedure to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
- Not removing wisdom teeth can lead to a range of complications, including infection, inflammation, gum disease, decay, and damage to surrounding teeth and nerves.
- If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to wisdom teeth, it is important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action.
- With proper care and follow-up, most people can recover fully from the procedure and enjoy improved oral health and overall well-being.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to emerge at the back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth – two on the upper jaw and two on the lower jaw. However, some people may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth typically grow in between the ages of 17 and 25, which is why they are often called “third molars.”
Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are several reasons why a dentist or oral surgeon may recommend the removal of wisdom teeth:
- Crowding: When there is not enough space in the mouth, the wisdom teeth may cause crowding, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and shifting of other teeth.
- Impacted teeth: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, which means they don’t fully emerge from the gum line. This can lead to infection, swelling, and pain.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth that have partially erupted can create a flap of gum tissue that can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to infection and gum disease.
- Cysts and tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors that can damage the surrounding teeth, jawbone, and nerves.
Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Removal
The procedure for removing wisdom teeth typically involves a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. If multiple teeth are being removed, general anesthesia may be used. The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and then remove it. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into pieces to be removed more easily. The incision is then closed with stitches, and gauze is placed over the area to help control bleeding.
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Pain Relief
Removing wisdom teeth can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the jaw, gums, and teeth caused by the pressure of the growing tooth. This can greatly improve a person’s quality of life and make it easier to eat, speak, and perform daily activities without pain.
Improved Oral Health
Removing wisdom teeth can also help improve oral health by reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and infection. Wisdom teeth that are not fully erupted can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to decay and gum disease. Additionally, wisdom teeth that are impacted can cause damage to neighboring teeth and gums.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Removing wisdom teeth can help reduce the risk of complications such as cysts, tumors, and infections. These complications can cause significant damage to surrounding teeth, jawbone, and nerves, leading to more serious health problems down the line.
Improved Overall Health
The health of our mouth and teeth is closely linked to our overall health. Removing wisdom teeth can improve overall health by reducing the risk of infection and inflammation in the mouth, which can have a positive impact on the body as a whole. Additionally, removing wisdom teeth can also help improve sleep quality, as pain and discomfort in the mouth can disrupt sleep.
Recovery after Wisdom Teeth Removal
After the procedure, it is important to follow the dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include:
- Taking pain medication as prescribed
- Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for several days
- Avoiding smoking or using straws, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing
- Brushing and flossing gently to avoid irritating the affected area
- Attending follow-up appointments with the dentist or surgeon to monitor healing and remove stitches if necessary
Most people experience some degree of pain, swelling, and bleeding for the first few days after the procedure. However, these symptoms typically subside within a week or two, and most people can return to normal activities within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go back to work or school the day after the procedure?
It is recommended to take a few days off work or school to allow for proper healing and to avoid complications. Your dentist or surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when it is safe to resume normal activities.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Melbourne?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on several factors, including the number of teeth being removed, the type of anesthesia used, and the location of the dentist or surgeon. On average, the cost of wisdom teeth removal in Melbourne ranges from $225 to $1000 per tooth.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
It is recommended to eat soft, cool, and easy-to-swallow foods for the first few days after the procedure. Some examples include soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and scrambled eggs.
How long does the recovery process take?
The recovery process can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Most people experience some degree of pain, swelling, and bleeding for the first few days, but these symptoms typically subside within a week or two. Full healing can take several weeks.
What are the risks of not removing wisdom teeth?
Not removing wisdom teeth can lead to a range of complications, including infection, inflammation, gum disease, decay, and damage to surrounding teeth and nerves. In some cases, wisdom teeth can also develop cysts or tumors, which can cause serious damage to the jawbone and surrounding tissues.
Conclusion
Removing wisdom teeth can have many benefits, including pain relief, improved oral health, reduced risk of complications, and improved overall health. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to wisdom teeth, it is important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action. With proper care and follow-up, most people can recover fully from the procedure and enjoy improved oral health and overall well-being.