Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Everything You Need To Know

By Author: Dr Lai Juen Bin is an MOH-accredited Oral and Maxi
Total Articles: 1
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Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Everything You Need to Know

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, others might face complications that require extraction. If you're facing discomfort or dental issues due to your wisdom teeth, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about wisdom tooth extraction in Singapore, including the process, what to expect, and aftercare tips.
Why Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?
For many people, wisdom teeth do not erupt properly due to a lack of space in the jaw. This can lead to several dental problems such as:
Impaction: When wisdom teeth fail to erupt completely, they may become trapped under the gum or jawbone. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even infection.
Crowding: As wisdom teeth try to push through, they may crowd or damage neighbouring teeth, leading to alignment issues.
Decay or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth that are difficult to clean can lead to cavities or infections, ...
... increasing the risk of gum disease.
In these cases, wisdom tooth extraction is often recommended to alleviate pain and prevent further dental complications. If you are experiencing any discomfort, a visit to a dentist is crucial for a thorough examination.
The Process of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure that can be performed by a general dentist or an oral surgeon. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, it can be done under local anaesthesia or sedation.
Here is a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during the procedure:
Examination and X-Rays
Before the extraction, your dentist will assess your wisdom teeth using X-rays. This will help determine the positioning of the teeth and any complications such as impaction.
Anaesthesia
Depending on your situation, local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth, or sedation may be used if multiple teeth are being removed.
Extraction
The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum to expose the tooth and surrounding bone. The tooth may be removed in pieces to make the process easier, especially if it is impacted.
Closing the Site
Once the tooth is removed, the gum is stitched up (if necessary). Gauze will be placed over the extraction site to stop bleeding and help form a clot.
The entire procedure is generally quick, lasting 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the extraction. For a smooth and professional experience, you can opt for wisdom tooth extraction Singapore services at Wellness Dental Studio, where experienced dentists ensure minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
After a wisdom tooth extraction, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and prevent complications like infections or dry sockets. Here's how to manage your recovery:
1. Managing Pain and Swelling
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising. Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medication to manage the pain. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce swelling during the first 24 hours.
2. Diet and Eating Habits
Stick to soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods, as they may irritate the extraction site. It's also important to avoid using a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful condition called a dry socket.
3. Oral Hygiene
While it’s important to maintain oral hygiene, be gentle when cleaning around the extraction site. Avoid brushing or rinsing your mouth vigorously on the day of the extraction. After 24 hours, you can gently rinse with saltwater to keep the area clean and promote healing.
4. Rest
Give your body time to heal by resting for the first few days after the extraction. Avoid strenuous activities, as increased heart rate can cause the extraction site to bleed.
For further guidance on post-extraction care, consult your dentist at Wellness Dental Studio for expert advice.
Common Complications
While wisdom tooth extraction is generally safe, there are potential complications to be aware of:
Dry Socket: If the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, you may experience severe pain and delayed healing. Dry sockets occur in about 2-5% of patients and can be managed by your dentist.
Infection: Signs of infection include fever, increasing pain, swelling, or pus discharge from the extraction site. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate dental care.
Nerve Injury: In rare cases, wisdom tooth extraction can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin. This is usually temporary but can occasionally be permanent.
If you have concerns about potential complications, your dentist at will discuss these risks during your consultation. Their skilled team offers personalised care to ensure a safe and smooth recovery.
Cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Singapore
The cost of wisdom tooth extraction in Singapore varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether it's a simple extraction or a surgical one due to impaction. Additionally, the use of sedation may also affect the overall cost.
On average, the cost for simple wisdom tooth extraction ranges from $250 to $500 per tooth. For surgical extractions involving impacted teeth, the cost can range from $750 to $1,200 per tooth.
At Wellness Dental Studio, the team provides affordable and transparent pricing for wisdom tooth extraction Singapore. They also accept Medisave, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. You can visit their clinic or check their website for detailed pricing information.
When Should You Consider Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
While not everyone requires wisdom tooth extraction, you should consider it if you are experiencing any of the following:
Persistent Pain: Ongoing discomfort in the back of your mouth is a sign that your wisdom teeth may be impacted or infected.
Swollen Gums: Swelling, redness, or pus around the wisdom teeth could indicate infection.
Shifting Teeth: If your wisdom teeth are causing crowding or pushing other teeth out of alignment, extraction might be necessary.
Cysts or Tumours: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts to form around the jawbone, which can damage nearby teeth.
Regular dental check-ups will help determine if extraction is necessary. If you're unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, consult the experts at Wellness Dental Studio. Their skilled team will assess your condition and provide personalised recommendations.
Final Words
Wisdom tooth extraction can prevent future dental problems and alleviate discomfort caused by impacted or misaligned teeth. If you're considering wisdom tooth extraction in Singapore, the highly qualified team at Wellness Dental Studio can provide you with professional care in a comfortable environment. With transparent pricing and a commitment to patient comfort, they are the ideal choice for your dental needs.
For more information or to book a consultation, visit Wellness Dental Studio.