Oral surgery: tooth extractions and wisdom teeth
Oral surgery covers procedures such as removing teeth, including wisdom teeth. Saving a natural tooth is usually the first choice, but sometimes removing a tooth is the healthiest option.
Common problems and symptoms
You may benefit from a check-up if you notice any of these:
- A tooth that is broken beyond repair
- Pain, swelling or repeated infection around a wisdom tooth
- A wisdom tooth that is stuck under the gum or growing at an angle
- Food getting trapped behind the last molar
- A very loose tooth
- Crowding where a tooth needs to be removed as part of a plan
Treatments, step by step
Every mouth is different. This is a general outline of what treatment can involve.
Assessment and X-ray
The dentist checks the tooth and takes an X-ray to see the roots and nearby structures.
Discussing options
You are told whether the tooth can be saved, and if not, what removal involves and how to prepare.
Numbing
The area is fully numbed so you feel pressure but not sharp pain.
Removing the tooth
The tooth is gently loosened and removed. A wisdom tooth may need a small cut in the gum or be removed in parts.
Healing
Gauze is placed to control bleeding, and you are given written aftercare instructions.
Ask us whether this treatment is right for you.
Aftercare tips
- Bite on the gauze as advised to help a clot form.
- For the first day, avoid rinsing hard, spitting, smoking, using straws and hot drinks.
- Eat soft, cool food and chew on the other side.
- From the next day, rinse gently with warm salt water if advised, and keep brushing the other teeth.
When to see a dentist urgently
- Bleeding that does not slow after firm pressure with gauze
- Swelling that keeps increasing after the first two to three days
- Fever, pus or a bad taste with increasing pain
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing (seek emergency care immediately)
Common questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that are healthy and not causing problems may be left alone. The dentist will advise based on your X-ray and symptoms.
How long does healing take?
The first few days are usually the most tender. Your dentist will tell you what to expect for your case.
What is dry socket?
A painful condition that can happen if the blood clot is lost from the socket. Following the aftercare advice helps prevent it. Contact the dentist if pain gets worse after a few days.
Have a question about an extraction or wisdom tooth?
Message Dr S. Barath Kumar on WhatsApp or call the clinic. Ask us whether this treatment is right for you.
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Please see a dentist for advice about your own teeth.
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