Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to come through at the back of your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people they cause no trouble at all. For others, they can lead to pain, swelling and infection.
Thinking about wisdom teeth removal Ormeau patients can have done close to home? Our dentists at Ormeau City Dental Centre assess and remove wisdom teeth. This guide explains when removal is needed, what happens on the day and how to look after yourself afterwards. Live closer to Pimpama or Coomera? Our group also has clinics in both suburbs, so see our locations page to find the one nearest you.
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems
Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to come through properly. When a tooth is stuck under the gum or grows in at an angle, it is called impacted. Impacted or partly erupted wisdom teeth can cause:
- Repeated gum infections around the tooth, often with pain and swelling
- Decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth next to it, because the area is hard to clean
- Damage to the cheek or gums from a tooth growing at an angle
- Cysts or other jaw problems, in less common cases
Healthdirect notes that removing a problem wisdom tooth is usually a safe and effective way to stop these symptoms coming back.
Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Not everyone does. If your wisdom teeth have room, come through straight and are easy to clean, your dentist may simply keep an eye on them at your regular check-ups. We usually recommend removal when a wisdom tooth is causing pain or infection, damaging nearby teeth, or is likely to cause problems later.
If you have pain or swelling at the back of your mouth, book a check-up so we can take an X-ray and talk you through your options.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Ormeau: What Happens on the Day
1. Assessment and X-Rays
We examine your mouth and take digital X-rays to see the position of the tooth and its roots. This tells us whether it can be removed simply or needs a surgical approach.
2. Anaesthetic and Comfort
Most wisdom teeth are removed under local anaesthetic, so the area is numb but you are awake. For patients who feel anxious, we also offer conscious IV sedation. Very complex cases may be referred for treatment under general anaesthetic.
3. Removing the Tooth
A straightforward wisdom tooth is removed much like any other extraction. If it is impacted, the dentist may make a small cut in the gum and divide the tooth into sections so it can be removed gently.
4. Going Home
Most people go home the same day. The first one to two days are usually the most uncomfortable, and many people are back to normal activities within about a week.
Aftercare: Looking After Yourself at Home
- Rest for the first day and avoid strenuous exercise.
- Use a cold pack on your cheek to help with swelling.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid very hot drinks until the numbness wears off.
- Don’t smoke, as smoking raises the risk of a painful complication called dry socket.
- Follow the rinsing instructions we give you, and keep the rest of your mouth clean.
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket breaks down, exposing the bone. It usually causes severe, throbbing pain one to three days after the extraction. If your pain gets worse rather than better, call us so we can help.
Wisdom Tooth Removal FAQs
Does wisdom tooth removal hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness and swelling for a few days afterwards is normal. We also offer conscious IV sedation for anxious patients.
How long does it take to recover?
The first one to two days are usually the hardest. Most people return to normal activities within about a week.
What is dry socket?
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the socket breaks down, exposing the bone. It causes severe pain one to three days after an extraction. Avoiding smoking and following aftercare instructions lowers the risk.
Do all wisdom teeth need to come out?
No. If they have room, come through straight and are easy to clean, your dentist may just monitor them at regular check-ups.
Where is your clinic?
We are in Interciti Plaza, 31 Zupp Drive, Ormeau, with free onsite parking. If you live nearer Pimpama or Coomera, our group also has clinics in both suburbs.
Book a Wisdom Teeth Assessment
If your wisdom teeth are causing trouble, call (07) 5611 8688 or contact us to book an assessment. For sudden severe pain or swelling, see our emergency dentist guide.
