Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 21. When the jaw lacks sufficient space to accommodate these teeth, they may become “impacted,” meaning they are unable to erupt into a functional position.
The first step in managing wisdom teeth is a clinical assessment supported by an Orthopantomograph (OPG). This 3D-style X-ray allows our dental team to identify the direction and degree of impaction.
Mesial (Angular): The tooth is angled forward toward the front of the mouth. This is the most common form of impaction.
Distal: The tooth is angled toward the back of the throat.
Vertical: The tooth is oriented correctly but is blocked by the adjacent tooth or bone.
Horizontal: The tooth is angled “sideways” at 90 degrees, growing into the roots of the second molar.
Soft Tissue Impaction: The tooth has emerged from the jawbone but remains covered by the gingiva (gum).
Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth has partially emerged from the bone but is still trapped beneath the gum line.
Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth is entirely encased within the jawbone.
Not all wisdom teeth require extraction. However, surgical removal may be recommended if the impaction leads to:
Pericoronitis: Recurring infection of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth.
Caries (Decay): Difficulty cleaning the area can lead to decay in the wisdom tooth or the adjacent molar.
Cyst Formation: In rare cases, fluid-filled sacs can develop around the tooth, impacting the jawbone.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure. Depending on the complexity of the impaction and the proximity to the mandibular nerve, we may perform the procedure in-house or refer you to a Specialist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
To support patient comfort, we offer several sedation options in our purpose-built clinical facility:
Inhalation Sedation (Nitrous Oxide): To assist in relaxation during the procedure.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation: Administered by a qualified professional to induce a deeply relaxed state.
General Anaesthesia (GA): Performed in our surgical suite with a visiting Specialist Anaesthetist for complex or multi-tooth extractions.
The fee for extraction depends on the complexity of the impaction (soft tissue vs. bony). Following a clinical consultation, we provide a detailed treatment plan including estimated costs and available payment options.
Clinical Assessment: A consultation and OPG X-ray are mandatory to determine the necessity of extraction.
Surgical Risks: Wisdom tooth removal is a surgical procedure. Inherent risks include infection, post-operative swelling and bruising, “dry socket” (alveolar osteitis), and potential temporary or permanent nerve sensitivity (altered sensation in the lip, chin, or tongue).
Anaesthesia Risks: All forms of sedation and general anaesthesia carry independent medical risks which will be discussed during your consultation.
Results: Healing times and individual recovery experiences vary significantly.
Mandatory Warning: All dental procedures carry risks. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries additional risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Related Categories
