Wisdom Teeth Extractions in Richmond
Wisdom tooth removal is sometimes seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. For some of us, we simply lack the space for our third molars to erupt properly. As a result, they can become impacted, painful or develop infections (compromising the health of their neighbours).
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Your wisdom teeth are the third set of adult molars to erupt. They typically start erupting during the mid to late teens or early twenties. For most adults, wisdom teeth are completely developed as they get close to 30 years of age.
Wisdom tooth extractions are prescribed on a case-by-case basis. During your exam, we’ll order an X-ray that shows us the areas around your third molars and surrounding jaw structures. Based on the exam and what’s visible on the images, removing your third molars may be recommended, especially if you’re in pain or experiencing facial swelling.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not necessarily. However, impacted or partially-erupted wisdom teeth typically do need to be taken out. When a wisdom tooth is pressing into its neighbour, wedged into the bone or only partially erupted, it’s common to experience issues like
- Pain
- Swelling in your gums or face
- Decay
- Cysts or tumours
- Periodontal disease
- Crowded teeth (due to pressure)
But your wisdom tooth isn’t the only one at risk. Its neighbour is too. If your wisdom tooth is difficult to clean or wedged between another tooth and the bone, it’s not the only one predisposed to problems; the rest of your mouth is as well.
If you’re someone who wore braces in the past, be sure to look out for crowding or shifting in your bite. Their angle and pressure could push against the other teeth, leading to tooth movement across your entire smile. Be sure to wear your retainer regularly and let us know if you’re experiencing any symptoms of pressure.
Ensuring Your Comfort
When you arrange to have your wisdom teeth removed with Shanthini Rao (Dentist), there are no additional hospital or anaesthetist fees. We provide a gentle experience with an effective local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the duration of the procedure. Helping you feel relaxed and at ease is important to us. Dr Rao’s extensive experience and gentle techniques provide you with a positive experience.
Plus, we’re able to provide better flexibility when it comes to removing problematic wisdom teeth; there’s not a need to pay more to have all four extracted at the same time. You can choose to only remove the one causing any issues. It’s up to you.
Recovery After Oral Surgery
Most of our wisdom tooth extraction patients will want to take a day or two off from work or school to recover. Plan to have soft foods on hand for the first several days. We’ll provide you with a set of aftercare instructions to follow.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Consultations
Find out if wisdom tooth extractions Richmond are in you or your teen’s future. Contact us today to reserve a one-on-one evaluation with our family dentist.
Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
