WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION & SURGERY
Reduce risk for future problems, infection and tooth decay
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure Information
Wisdom teeth are large molars which usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 24. They are located at the back of your mouth, on each side of the upper and lower jaw.
In the majority of cases, wisdom teeth will appear without causing you any problems. However, if there is not enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow, they can become ‘impacted’ and will need to be removed.
How do I know if I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?
Sometimes all four wisdom teeth erupt normally and don’t cause any problems at all. But in many cases, wisdom teeth grow in at an angle or stay fully or partially trapped (impacted) in the jawbone or under the gum tissue. This can cause a range of problems. Your dentist may recommend wisdom teeth extraction if you:
How long is the whole process of removing my wisdom tooth?
Usually, wisdom teeth extraction takes about one hour or less. Complex cases may take longer.
After surgery
If an incision has been made, dissolving stitches are used to seal the gum. The stitches will usually take 7 to 10 days to dissolve.
You will then be given extra gauze to place on the site of the extraction, putting slight pressure on it by biting your jaws together for up to 1 hour. This is to allow blood clots to form in the empty tooth socket. It is a part of the healing process.
You should avoid doing the following after 24 hours of removing your wisdom tooth:
- Eating hot and spicy food
- Drinking hot liquids such as tea or soup
- Drinking from a straw
- Rinsing and gargling your mouth
- Drinking alcohol and smoking
- Strenuous physical activity
Instead, you are highly encouraged to take soft food, cold drinks, and even have ice cream!
When can I go back to work or school?
Most people can go back to work or school in two to three days after wisdom teeth extraction.