Category: Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between ages 17 and 25. While some people never experience problems, many face complications when these teeth become impacted or infected. An infected wisdom tooth isn’t just a dental nuisance—it can have far-reaching consequences for both your health and finances.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Infection

Wisdom teeth become problematic when there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate them. This often leads to partial eruption or impaction, creating pockets where food particles and bacteria accumulate. Once bacteria colonize these difficult-to-clean areas, infection becomes almost inevitable.

Signs of an infected wisdom tooth include:

• Persistent pain in the back of the mouth
• Swelling and redness around the affected area
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever in severe cases

Their location at the back of the mouth makes wisdom teeth challenging to clean properly, even with diligent brushing and flossing. The partially erupted state many wisdom teeth remain in creates a perfect environment for bacterial growth, leading to infections known as pericoronitis.

Health Implications Beyond the Mouth

The consequences of ignoring an infected wisdom tooth extend far beyond localized discomfort. When left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, potentially leading to serious health complications.

Systemic Health Risks

Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and affect other bodily systems. Potential complications include:

• Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can spread to facial tissues
• Ludwig’s angina: A serious infection of the floor of the mouth that can obstruct airways
• Bacteraemia: Bacteria in the bloodstream that may affect heart valves
• Abscess formation: Collection of pus that can damage surrounding tissues and bone

For individuals with certain medical conditions like diabetes, compromised immune systems, heart conditions, or pregnancy, an infected wisdom tooth poses even greater risks.

The Financial Impact of Delaying Treatment

Many people postpone wisdom teeth surgery due to concerns about removal costs. However, this delay often leads to significantly higher expenses in the long run.

Preventive vs. Emergency Care Costs

Elective wisdom teeth removal, performed before complications arise, is typically more straightforward and less costly than emergency treatment for an infected tooth. When infection develops, additional procedures may become necessary:

• Antibiotics to control infection before surgery
• More complex extraction procedures
• Possible hospitalization for severe infections
• Additional follow-up appointments

Beyond direct dental expenses, infected wisdom teeth can lead to other financial burdens:

• Lost productivity and time away from work
• Transportation costs for multiple dental visits
• Medications for pain management and infection control

A family dentist will often recommend preventive removal precisely because the long-term health and financial benefits typically outweigh the initial investment.

The Wisdom Teeth Surgery Experience

Understanding what wisdom teeth surgery entails can help alleviate anxiety about the procedure. Most extractions follow a similar process:

1. Consultation and imaging to evaluate position of wisdom teeth
2. Anaesthesia options depending on complexity
3. Extraction procedure, often taking 45-90 minutes for all four wisdom teeth
4. Recovery period of typically 3-7 days

Advances in surgical techniques and anaesthesia have made wisdom teeth removal more comfortable than ever before. Many patients report that the procedure was much less intimidating than anticipated.

When to See a Family Dentist About Wisdom Teeth

Regular dental check-ups allow your family dentist to monitor wisdom teeth development before problems arise. However, certain symptoms should prompt an immediate dental visit:

• Pain or swelling in the back of the mouth
• Difficulty opening the jaw or swallowing
• Persistent headaches originating near the jaw
• Changes in bite alignment
• Signs of infection, including fever or facial swelling

Early intervention can prevent the cascade of health and financial complications associated with infected wisdom teeth.

Long-Term Benefits of Timely Wisdom Teeth Removal

Proactive management of wisdom teeth offers several advantages:

• Prevention of misalignment of other teeth
• Reduced risk of cyst or tumour formation around impacted teeth
• Elimination of hard-to-clean areas that harbor bacteria
• Prevention of damage to adjacent healthy teeth

Many patients report improved quality of life after resolving wisdom teeth issues that had been causing chronic discomfort or recurring infections.

Bottom Line

At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we understand both the health implications and financial considerations of wisdom teeth management. Our experienced family dentists provide comprehensive evaluations using the latest diagnostic technology to determine the most appropriate course of action for each patient.

We prioritize patient comfort throughout the wisdom teeth surgery process, offering various sedation options to ensure a positive experience. Our team thoroughly explains both the procedure and recovery process, empowering patients with the knowledge needed for smooth healing.

Understanding that financial concerns often delay necessary dental care, we offer flexible payment options and work with patients to maximize insurance benefits when applicable.

Whether you’re experiencing wisdom teeth symptoms or seeking a preventive evaluation, the team at Carrum Downs Dental Group is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care that protects both your health and your wallet. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive wisdom teeth consultation with our expert family dentists.

 

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Five Things You Need To Know About Wisdom Teeth

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All About Wisdom Teeth

 

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and emerge in the mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may never have issues with their wisdom teeth and find they align properly with existing teeth, many individuals experience complications that necessitate their removal. For these people, wisdom teeth can cause a host of issues due to lack of space in the jaw, leading to impaction, misalignment, or partial eruption. This article explores the benefits of early wisdom teeth removal and why timing is crucial in this dental procedure.

• Reduced Risk of Complications

Removing wisdom teeth early can significantly reduce the risk of various complications. Impacted wisdom teeth, which are teeth that don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally, can lead to several issues.

Infection is a common concern with partially erupted wisdom teeth, as they can create openings around the teeth that become breeding grounds for bacteria. As wisdom teeth try to erupt, they can push against the second molars, potentially causing damage or increasing the risk of decay in these teeth.

In some cases, the sac surrounding an impacted wisdom tooth can fill with fluid, forming a cyst that can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. Additionally, partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of pericoronitis, a painful inflammatory gum condition.

• Prevention of Overcrowding

Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on existing teeth, potentially leading to overcrowding or misalignment. This is especially problematic for individuals who have undergone orthodontic treatment. Early removal of wisdom teeth can help maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevent the need for further orthodontic work.

• Reduced Wisdom Tooth Pain

Wisdom tooth pain can be excruciating, often occurring when these teeth begin to emerge or become impacted. By removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems, you can avoid this pain altogether. Early removal also means you’re less likely to experience the discomfort associated with infections or other complications of problematic wisdom teeth.

• Better Overall Oral Health

Removing wisdom teeth early contributes to better overall oral health. It eliminates hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can accumulate, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. This can lead to improved oral hygiene and potentially fewer dental problems in the future.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

The wisdom tooth extraction process typically involves several steps. Your dentist will first take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and plan the extraction. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia.

During the extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon will remove the wisdom teeth. This may involve making an incision in the gum tissue and removing bone if the tooth is impacted. After the procedure, you’ll receive instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from wisdom tooth extraction is generally quicker and smoother when the procedure is done at a younger age. However, regardless of age, proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery. This includes managing swelling with ice packs, taking prescribed pain medications, eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities for a few days, and maintaining good oral hygiene while being gentle around the extraction sites.

Conclusion

The benefits of early wisdom teeth removal are clear: easier extraction, reduced risk of complications, prevention of dental crowding, avoidance of wisdom tooth pain, and better overall oral health. While not everyone will need their wisdom teeth removed, early evaluation and, if necessary, extraction can prevent a host of potential problems.

At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we offer wisdom teeth removal services and expert care for this common dental procedure. Our experienced team understands wisdom tooth extraction’s complexities and potential complications. We utilize advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure a smooth, efficient process with minimal discomfort. Our dentists thoroughly evaluate each patient’s unique situation, providing personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. We prioritize patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure, offering various sedation options to suit different preferences and anxiety levels. Post-operative care is a crucial part of our service, and we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and support to ensure optimal healing. With our flexible scheduling and payment options, we strive to make wisdom teeth removal as accessible and stress-free as possible for residents of Carrum Downs and surrounding areas.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of molars to erupt in your late teens to early 20s. Located at the very back of your mouth, wisdom teeth often become impacted, partially emerge, or come in crookedly. This can lead to infection and severe pain. Here’s how to find relief from wisdom tooth infection discomfort:

Signs of Infection

Symptoms that your wisdom tooth may be infected include:

• Pain or soreness around the jaw, ear, or side of the throat
• Red, inflamed, tender gums near the impacted tooth
• Swelling around the tooth, jaw, or cheek region
• Difficulty fully opening the mouth
• Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth
• Headache, neck, and shoulder pain due to mouth and jaw soreness
• Fever, nausea, or fatigue from the infection

These symptoms result from trapped bacteria multiplying in the tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth. Infection occurs because wisdom teeth try to force their way through hardened gums that can’t stretch to accommodate them. The partial eruption also leaves gaps where bacteria enter around the tooth.

Treating Minor Infection at Home

For mild wisdom tooth infection, these remedies provide temporary pain relief until seeing a dentist:

• Saltwater rinses – Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon salt in warm water and swish gently around the painful area. Salt helps reduce inflammation and draw out fluid.
• Over-the-counter pain medication – Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen ease swelling. Acetaminophen relieves general discomfort. Use as directed.
• Cold compresses – Applying an ice pack or cold compress against the outer cheek near the infected area reduces inflammation.
• Soft, lukewarm foods – Stick to a soft diet like broths, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Avoid very hot or cold foods against tender gums.

See a dentist promptly if symptoms persist or worsen. An x-ray is needed to determine treatment.

Seeing the Dentist for Infection

If home remedies do not resolve your wisdom tooth infection, it is important to promptly seek professional dental care. The dentist has the proper training, tools, and expertise to accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and provide effective treatment. At your appointment, the dentist will start by thoroughly examining your mouth, teeth, and gums. They will look for any swelling, redness, bleeding, tenderness, or pus around the impacted wisdom tooth. The dentist will gently probe the affected area and may press on your jaw joint and neck muscles to pinpoint the source of any pain. Let them know if you feel any discomfort during the exam.

Additionally, they will take a detailed medical history, asking you about any pre-existing conditions, medications you are taking, or allergies they should know about. This helps the dentist best plan your care and treatment approach. X-rays are typically taken as well to get an internal view of your impacted wisdom teeth and assess the level of infection. From the x-rays, the dentist can see if the wisdom tooth is partially erupted, completely trapped, or pushing against other molars. They will also check for any signs of fever, enlarged lymph nodes in your neck, or pus discharge from your gums, which all indicate infection may be spreading.

A culture swab of the area may be done to identify the exact bacteria causing infection. Based on these comprehensive diagnostic tests, your dentist will be able to diagnose the wisdom tooth problem and prescribe appropriate treatment. This may include antibiotics if the infection is advancing, surgically draining any abscesses that have formed on the wisdom tooth roots, extracting part or all of the impacted wisdom tooth, or referring you to an oral surgeon if complications arise requiring specialty care. With timely professional intervention, wisdom tooth infections can be resolved and more serious complications prevented.

Recovering from Extraction  

Expect moderate pain, swelling, and bruising after wisdom tooth removal surgery. To manage discomfort:

• Take prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers as directed
• Rinse mouth gently with warm salt water after 24 hours
• Apply cold compresses to reduce facial swelling
• Eat soft foods like soup, eggs, mashed potatoes
• Avoid hard, crunchy foods that could disturb the surgical site
• Rest with the head elevated on pillows to minimize swelling
• Avoid strenuous activity for a few days

Bottom Line

While wisdom tooth infections are quite common, they require professional dental expertise for effective treatment and pain relief. At Carrum Downs Dental Group, our skilled dentists have extensive experience caring for wisdom tooth infections and performing extractions when necessary. We will closely monitor your condition after extraction surgery and are available if any post-operative concerns arise. Don’t hesitate to visit us or give us a call if you have any swelling, worsening pain, bleeding, or other issues following wisdom tooth removal.

Are you among the fortunate few who never had to experience the agony and unease caused by wisdom teeth? Or are you presently recuperating from their extraction, questioning the purpose of their existence? Either way, brace yourself as we delve into the captivating realm of wisdom teeth, investigating the reasons behind their presence in some individuals and their absence in others. From their evolutionary origins to contemporary dental procedures, this blog post will furnish you with all the knowledge you require about these perplexing molars. So sit comfortably, keep your mouth closed, and join me in unravelling the enigma that is wisdom teeth!

What is the Purpose of Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth typically emerge during an individual’s late teens or early twenties. They derive their name from the notion that people are considered wiser at this age than during their childhood years. While some people experience no complications with their wisdom teeth and have a seamless eruption, others may encounter discomfort, crowding, and other issues. Impacted wisdom teeth refer to those that lack sufficient space to emerge or grow correctly, leading to a host of problems.

There are conflicting views on the necessity of removing wisdom teeth, especially when they are not causing any complications. Some proponents recommend their removal, while others maintain that it is unnecessary unless issues arise. Wisdom teeth that are impacted or grow abnormally can trigger pain, infections, and other concerns, making their removal advisable. However, if your wisdom teeth are healthy and causing no discomfort, you may not require extraction.

Why Do Some People Have Them and Others Don’t?

1. Evolution
   Our ancestors had larger jaws than we do, so they needed more molars to grind their food. Over time, our jaws have gotten smaller, but our teeth have stayed the same size. That’s why wisdom teeth sometimes get stuck (impacted) when they try to come in.
2. Genetics
   Some people are simply born without wisdom teeth. This is usually because their genes dictate that their jaw is too small to fit them in.
3. Diet
   Our diet significantly impacts the size of our jaws. The consumption of highly processed foods can cause our jaws to shrink, leading to reduced space for wisdom teeth. Conversely, a diet that is abundant in nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables, can foster optimal growth of our jaws, enabling sufficient room for all 32 teeth.
4. Health
   Wisdom teeth can be problematic for some people’s overall health, so their dentist may recommend removing them even if they’re not impacted. This is usually done to prevent crowding of

Potential Health Risks of Retained Wisdom Teeth

While wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems, they can lead to a number of potential health risks if they are not removed. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause infection, pain, and swelling. They can also damage adjacent teeth and structures in the mouth. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can even cause cysts or tumours to form. If left untreated, these conditions can result in serious health problems. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist regularly and have any potential problems with your wisdom teeth checked out.

Prevention and Treatment Options

There are various measures one can take to prevent the onset of wisdom teeth or mitigate associated complications. Firstly, adopt good oral hygiene habits. These include regular brushing and flossing and scheduling routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Secondly, consume a healthy diet. Such a diet incorporates fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to maintain optimal dental health. Thirdly, avoid tobacco products as they heighten the risk of gum disease, which can trigger wisdom tooth problems. If an individual already has wisdom teeth, several treatment options are available. If the wisdom teeth aren’t causing any discomfort, leaving them unattended may be recommended by the dentist. However, if they are causing pain or other complications, extracting them may be advised. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure typically carried out by an oral surgeon.

Visit Carrum Downs Dental Group for Wisdom Teeth Removal

The reason why some people have wisdom teeth, and others don’t is because of differences in our biology. These differences can be attributed to Evolutionary Theory, which explains that it is natural for us to evolve over time and adapt to changing conditions. This makes some sense from a practical point of view, as wisdom teeth were more suitable many generations ago when diets were not as abundant or varied. Nevertheless, even though these days they are no longer necessary, some people will still have them while others won’t due to their genetic makeup. If your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble, visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic. Our dentist will examine them and recommend the best way forward.

Every dentist’s goal is to offer their patients the highest level of care, from routine dental check-ups to detecting issues and providing education for lifetime oral health. A crucial part of any dentistry program is the use of dental x-rays, which allows dentists to diagnose, prevent and treat oral health problems. Although dental x-rays have been in use for decades, numerous people still worry about the long-term effects x-rays can have on their overall health.

One of the major concerns that patients have is whether the risk of radiation from x-rays outweighs the benefits. Whereas x-rays do give off minor amounts of radiation, the long-term effects are very minimal. As a matter of fact, dental x-rays emit so little radiation that they are considered safe for children.

At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, we always have our patients’ best interests at heart. We would never put you through anything that would cause harm. Dental x-rays are a key part of dentistry practice because they give a complete picture of your dental health, which in turn gives the information that is needed to treat you.

Here is all you want to know about dental x-rays so that you can feel comfortable making decisions for your oral health.

When are Dental X-rays Required?   

Dental x-rays may only be needed every 2-3 years; however, your dentist can make a recommendation based on your dental health. Factors that determine whether you need a dental x-ray include your age, oral health history, risk factors for various conditions, stage of oral development, and whether or not you are exhibiting symptoms of your oral health problems. Here are some of the uses of dental x-rays:

• Diagnosis of gum and periodontal disease
• Diagnosis of dental caries
• Diagnosis of tooth vitality or detection of infections
• Adjunct to treatment planning
• Decay under existing fillings and restorations

Types of Dental X-rays

There are several types of dental x-rays that are used regularly within an oral care environment. Depending on your personal needs, the dentist will decide which x-ray will be required to assess your dental problems.

• Intra-Oral X-rays

These are the most commonly used forms of x-rays, and they involve instant exposure chair side.

• Orthopantomogram (OPG)

These are panoramic x-rays that allow a wide view of your mouth. It is considered a great tool for diagnosing gum disease and assessing wisdom teeth.

• Computed Tomography (CT)

CT scans are used to plan for endodontics treatment and dental implant placement.

Bottom Line

At Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, we are committed to your safety, which is why we are always looking to employ safe and effective technologies. Also, it is highly advisable to let the dentist know if you are pregnant before taking any dental x-rays so that they can provide the relevant safety precautions, including a lead apron. If the x-ray is not an emergency, we will most likely postpone it until delivery.

Feel free to contact us today to schedule an appointment and enjoy professional dental practices that care for not only your teeth but also your overall personal health.

Wisdom teeth are the third molars on both the upper and lower jaws. They are located at the very back of the mouth, and they are usually the last to emerge. They are called wisdom teeth since they emerge between the ages of 17 and 21.

Some people keep their wisdom teeth while others choose to have them removed. In some cases, removing wisdom teeth becomes a necessity for others due to several reasons. For example, one can have an impacted wisdom tooth that is causing problems to other teeth in the mouth. In such a case, wisdom teeth removal will be necessary.

Here is the procedure for wisdom teeth removal

Oral Exam

The first step will be an oral exam by your dentist. He will review your dental history as well as do a few scans to determine if you are a good candidate for removal. If you are a good candidate, the dentist will then map out the entire process, including your choice for anaesthesia. If you have any questions about wisdom teeth removal, this is the time to ask. Your dentist will provide you with some detailed instructions that will help you adequately prepare for the procedure.

Anaesthesia

During the surgery, your dentist will first apply your preferred anaesthesia. The most popular anaesthesia when it comes to wisdom teeth removal is a combination of local anaesthesia and IV sedation. However, there are other methods available depending on factors such as your medical history, anxiety level as well as personal preference. Your dentist will give you more information about the type of anaesthesia available.

Surgical Procedure

After anaesthesia, the surgical process will commence. The dentist will start by making an incision through the gums so that the wisdom teeth can be exposed. The method of extraction will depend on the position of the tooth. It can either be done as a whole or through small segments.

After the removal of the tooth, you will now be required to rest in the dentist’s office until the anaesthesia wears off. In case the procedure was done using IV sedation, you must have a responsible adult who will take you home. The person must be in a position to monitor you until the sedation wears off.

After Surgery

After surgery, the procedure is very important for a quick and safe recovery. The dentist will provide you with a set of instructions that you are supposed to follow during recovery. In most cases, your dentist will advise you not to eat anything for at least the first 24 hours. After that, you can stick to soft foods throughout the recovery process.

It is vital that the surgical area remains clean to prevent infection. Your dentist will also prescribe some medication to control pain throughout the recovery period.

Bottom Line

Wisdom teeth removal is a dental procedure that requires expertise for it to be successful. You can trust Carrum Downs Dental Clinic due to their experienced and well qualified dentist. If you have any issues with your wisdom teeth and you are unsure of whether to extract them or not, visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group, and we will advise you accordingly. 

It goes without saying that most people do not have their wisdom teeth because they have had them extracted. However, the few who have their wisdom teeth can actually get tooth decay in their wisdom teeth just like on any other tooth. Wisdom teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay due to their location at the back of the mouth, which makes it difficult to clean them properly. As a result, it is easy for food particles to build up and create a conducive environment for bacteria that can cause tooth decay over time. Just like any other tooth decay, wisdom teeth need prompt treatment before they get worse and cause other complicated dental problems.

What to do if you have a wisdom tooth cavity

Cavities can occur at any time, and that is why it is recommended that you visit a dentist regularly for a check-up to detect any cavities before they become severe. With early detection, cavities can be stopped on their tracks before they become complicated or cause tooth loss. However, if you find yourself developing a cavity, it is best practice to visit a dentist as soon as possible for them to examine its extent and recommend the most suitable treatment. A decayed wisdom tooth can be the beginning of a host of other problems like gum disease and eventually tooth loss. Therefore, the sooner it is treated, the better for you and your oral health. Carrum Downs Dental Clinic is always open if you want to have regular check-ups in order to keep up with your oral health.

Wisdom tooth cavity treatment

The treatment of any kind of tooth decay will differ from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the cavity and other factors. The same applies to wisdom tooth cavities. The treatment differs on a case by case basis. While most dentists always recommend extraction of wisdom teeth because of the problems that they may pose for your oral health, wisdom teeth can still be treated normally and left intact if they do not pose any danger to your oral health.
Depending on the severity of tooth decay, a dentist would normally recommend dental fillings or a root canal treatment. However, with wisdom teeth, most dentists will recommend an extraction, especially if the wisdom tooth is impacted. The location and position of the tooth may also warrant an extraction after examination by a dentist. On rare occasions, some wisdom teeth are fully erupted and do not pose any potential problems in the mouth. In this case, the dentist may recommend having it filled and restored, just like any other tooth decay. A root canal treatment can also be performed on a wisdom tooth if the cavity extends to the nerves. The process of filling and restoration is pretty much the same as any other cavity on other teeth.

Conclusion

Carrum Downs Dental Clinic is the best place to have your wisdom tooth cavity diagnosed and treated by the best dentists in town. We offer exclusive special wisdom teeth treatment options for our patients to ensure that each patient gets exactly what they need during their visits.

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Know The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure and Complications

A majority of people dread visiting the dentist, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. For some, the fear comes from the sound of dental equipment from the dentist office. Some fear the injections from the dental technician while others just have an irrational fear with everything to do with teeth removal and a dental office. However, for most people, the fear comes since they do not know what to expect during the procedure. This article takes a look at the wisdom teeth removal procedure as well as possible complications.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Wisdom teeth procedure can be carried out by a regular dentist or a dental surgeon. Regardless, these are the steps that will be followed during the treatment.

• X-ray

Once your dentist has recommended wisdom teeth removal for you, the next step is taking an x-ray. This will help determine the shape and position of your teeth and will let your dentist know who will perform the procedure.

• Anaesthesia

Before the process can start, you will receive oral anaesthesia to numb the surrounding area. If you are anxious about the procedure, your dentist will give you sedatives to help you relax. General anaesthesia is rare during wisdom teeth removal, but it is normally administered to extremely anxious patients.

• Tissue Removal

If the tooth has not come through the gum, the dentist will make a small incision to access it. The dentist will use some surgical instruments to push the gum out of the way.

• Bone Removal

The chances are that the bone might cover the wisdom teeth. In such an occurrence, the dentist will use a high-speed handpiece to drill through and access the tooth.

• Loosening the Sectioning of the Tooth

Once the wisdom teeth are visible to the dentist, he/she will use some surgical instruments to loosen the tooth. The same procedure applies to any tooth that has already erupted. Also, depending on the position of the tooth, the dentist may choose to cut it into sections to prevent it from breaking before it is extracted.

• Stitches

Once the tooth has been removed, the dentist will now use stitches to close up the area.

Possible Complications during Wisdom Teeth Removal

• Alveolar Osteitis (Dry Socket)

After wisdom teeth removal procedure, a blood clot forms on the site as a normal part of the healing process. However, a condition known as dry socket may develop if the blood clot is dislodged. Dry socket can occur 3 to 5 days after the procedure.

• Paresthesia

A section of patients can also be affected by paresthesia. This is a condition that occurs if a nerve closest to the root gets damaged or bruised. The condition can result in temporary loss of feeling to the tongue, upper or lower jaw. This means that you will be unable to feel touch, pain, or sensitivity to changes in temperature.

Bottom Line

Wisdom teeth removal procedure can scare people and make them avoid visiting the dentist at all. However, that should not be the case since the procedure does not have to be painful. Talk to our dentist at Carrum Downs Dental Group, and we will apply different methods to make the process as painless and comfortable as possible. Also, our dentists are well qualified, and thus, chances of any possible complications are almost zero.

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Most people have experienced oral surgery at some point in their lives. One common oral surgery is getting the wisdom teeth extracted sometime in their teen years or early twenties. After the surgery, it may take several days for the wound to heal, with some factors such as lifestyle and general health affecting this healing period. Typically, oral surgeons or dentists offer the patients with recommendations as to how to handle the recovery period. And one of the most common ways to have a smooth recovery is to avoid smoking.

Smoking can be a quite challenging habit to break. The nicotine and routine can be an intense craving for a person who has been doing it for the better part of their lives. Even a causal smoker may find it difficult to abstain from smoking for a certain period. It is important to avoid smoking for at least a week or two after having your wisdom tooth extracted. This also applies to those who use smoking devices such as vaporizers. Smoking can lead to numerous oral complications and here are more reasons why smoking after a wisdom tooth extraction is a bad idea.

• Smoking Slows Down the Healing Process

After a wisdom tooth has been extracted, an empty socket is left where the tooth once sat. The extraction site needs to heal. However, when you smoke, it could tamper with the speed at which the wound is healing.

• Damage to Blood Clotting

The empty gap left after wisdom tooth extraction requires a process of blood clot formation for proper healing. Blood clotting helps to stop excessive bleeding and initiate the recovery process. After a clot has formed on the wound, it is advisable to take extra cautions to ensure that the clot is not dislodged. Smoking is a hazardous habit that can dislodge the blood clot.

• Increases Risks of having a Dry Socket

Smoking can significantly increase the risks of having a dry socket during the healing period. A dry socket causes excruciating pain, and in addition, you will need some other dental visits to fix it. It is never something that you would want to deal with right after your wisdom tooth extraction. However, if you continue to smoke, then this becomes a possibility.

• Risks of Infections

You may end up dealing with nasty infections if you decide to ignore your dentist orders and carry on smoking after your wisdom tooth extraction. If your wound becomes infected, you may develop a high fever or experience gum inflammation and severe pain that does not go away. Also, you may notice a yellow or white discharge from your infected wound site.

Bottom Line 

The numerous effects of smoking on oral health should be enough motivation to quit the habit. However, wisdom tooth extraction offers a convenient way to start your journey. Avoiding smoking for at least a week after the surgery is crucial for the recovery process and this amount of time can set you into a quitting motion. If you smoke and you are worried about your oral health, do not hesitate to contact our dentists at Carrum Downs Dental Group. Our main aim is to keep your mouth healthy and offer you that much needed support if you want to quit this habit for good.

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