Wisdom Teeth Removal

When To See A Dentist

Make sure to contact our experienced dentists in Acts Dental Perth if:

You are experiencing swollen gums in the area of your wisdom teeth: This could indicate impaction, where the wisdom teeth are unable to fully emerge, a condition known as “impacted wisdom teeth”.

The teeth have come out at the wrong angle: Misaligned wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and disrupt the alignment of your other, nearby teeth.

You cannot clean your wisdom teeth properly: Partially emerged wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to decay, gum disease, and potentially the need for wisdom teeth removal.

You feel infection or inflammation in the gum: This could be a sign of Pericoronitis, a common infection associated with wisdom teeth.

You cannot open your mouth easily due to pain or feel pressure in the back of your mouth: Difficulty in mouth movement or severe pain can indicate serious complications, such as an abscess, and potential complications associated with impacted wisdom teeth.

Deciding on Wisdom Teeth Removal: Do You Need It and Why?

Many people worldwide will have to remove their wisdom teeth because of pain, difficulty opening their mouth, or even preventing future dental problems. If you have an impacted wisdom tooth, our dentists may suggest removing your wisdom teeth even if you do not feel any pain to prevent other possible complications.

Common Issues Where Wisdom Teeth Extractions May Be Necessary

Wrongly positioned wisdom teeth can cause damage and pressure to the adjacent teeth. 

Sometimes, you may not be able to maintain your oral hygiene properly, so some pieces of food may get stuck in your wisdom teeth and cause decay or gum infection.

If your wisdom teeth have not appropriately emerged and are kept underneath the gums (impacted wisdom teeth), they may lead to bacterial infection, cyst development, or swelling gums.

If you use dentures, then you are usually advised to have your wisdom teeth removed.

Risks and Complications of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures and is not usually considered sophisticated or dangerous; however, it may still carry some risks like any surgery.

Pain and Swelling

Most patients will usually experience some pressure and swelling inside or even outside the mouth after their wisdom tooth extraction; this condition usually lasts a couple of days or maybe one or two weeks.

Bad Smell

In addition to the general pain and the pressure after the surgery, some people may even experience an unpleasant smell caused by the dry socket; this complication is more likely to occur if you do not follow your dentist’s instructions step by step.

Nerve Injury

In some rare cases, the nerve nearby your wisdom teeth might be affected by the surgery and can leave you a long-lasting numbness in your mouth, tongue, and lips.

This condition, known as paresthesia, occurs when the nerves that provide sensation to these areas are bruised or damaged during the extraction process. While the numbness is often temporary, lasting a few weeks to months, it can sometimes be permanent, depending on the extent of the nerve damage. Patients experiencing paresthesia may find it difficult to speak, eat, or feel sensations in the affected areas, significantly impacting their quality of life. Follow-up care with a dental specialist is crucial for managing symptoms and monitoring recovery.

Excessive Bleeding

Although bleeding after or even during the removal of your wisdom tooth is pretty natural, sometimes the bleeding may continue for more than 24 hours. If the bleeding does not stop, contact your dentist to seek advice.

Dry Socket

After the extraction of your wisdom tooth, your dentist will put some gauze on the place to allow a blood clot to form. You will be asked to press the gauze, using your jaw to help form blood clots. These blood clots will accelerate the healing process, but if these blood clots go away before your wound heals, you will experience a painful dental condition called “dry socket,” which needs your dentist’s immediate care. During this time, you should avoid smoking as it can cause infection and prolong the healing.

Infection

It’s also worth noting that infection is a possible risk after wisdom tooth extraction, particularly if the person has a weakened immune system or doesn’t follow post-operative care instructions. Signs of infection may include fever, severe pain, and pus or discharge from the extraction site.

Techniques for Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Perth

The methods used to remove wisdom teeth in Perth vary depending on each individual’s situation. Before any oral surgery, you’ll receive comprehensive information about the procedure and be asked to sign a consent form. Local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia might be used to ensure you’re completely comfortable during the procedure. This decision largely depends on the complexity of your extraction and your comfort level.

Local Anaesthetic for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Before any surgical teeth removal, your dentist or oral surgeon will use local anaesthesia to numb the area surrounding your wisdom tooth. Using a local anaesthetic ensures that while you remain conscious, you’ll feel no pain during the extraction, only a slight pressure.

FYI: If the teeth are being removed under a general anaesthetic, the patient will be completely unconscious throughout the procedure.

The Extraction Process

The procedure is straightforward if these last teeth have fully emerged through the gums. Your dentist will perform a simple extraction to have your wisdom teeth removed. However, if your tooth is still beneath the gums, your dentist will need to make a small incision in the gums to access the tooth (a surgical extraction). Sometimes, breaking the tooth into smaller pieces before extraction may be necessary to minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue.

General Anaesthesia and Sedation Options For Wisdom Tooth Removal

In more complex extractions or for those who experience dental anxiety, sleep dentistry options are available. IV sedation, oral sedation, or even a general anaesthetic can be used to ensure a comfortable experience during wisdom teeth removal.

For in-chair procedures, local anaesthesia is typically used. However, in more complex cases or when multiple teeth are being extracted at once, you may be referred to a hospital setting where general anaesthesia can be used. If you feel discomfort or pain during the extraction process, it’s important to immediately communicate with your dentist, as you may require additional pain relief.

Once your experienced dentist in South Perth has your wisdom teeth extracted, the area may be stitched up using dissolvable stitches.

How Long Will Wisdom Tooth Removal In Perth Usually Take?

In Perth, the extraction of each wisdom tooth typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. However, more complex cases may require additional time.

Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Perth: Does Dental Insurance Cover It?

The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Perth varies significantly depending on the complexity of the extraction and the type of anaesthesia used and the insurance cover.

A standard procedure with local anaesthesia for extracting all four wisdom teeth including consultation and OPG radiograph is approximately $1,500.

If the extraction requires general anaesthesia or IV sedation, the total costs could range from $2500 to $4,000 depending on the complexity and duration of the procedure.

If your wisdom teeth are causing any health problems for you, or if they are impacted and surgery is needed to remove them, this procedure may count as a medical procedure. In this case, you may be able to rely on Medicare or your health insurance to cover part of the sedation’s cost.

As a preferred provider for all major health funds, our patients benefit from maximizing their insurance coverage for their dental procedures, ensuring not only affordable care but also the expertise of our experienced dentists.

For accurate cost estimates and private health insurance coverage details, we recommend consulting with our team at Acts Dental Perth and your insurance provider.

Choosing the Right Specialist for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Perth

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that your regular dentist can carry out. Typically, you won’t need an oral surgeon to have your tooth extracted; but you may be recommended to see a specialist if your case is too complicated.

Preparation and Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Perth

Before any procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon in Perth will ask for a complete health history or the kinds of medication you may be using. They will give you all the necessary information, including the kind of anaesthetic you need, duration, cost, and possible procedure risks and complications.

You may be recommended not to eat, drink, or exercise the night before your surgery. Heavy exercise will increase blood pressure, which may cause excessive bleeding.

Most people will be able to get back home the same day their wisdom teeth are extracted, but it’s a good idea to take time off work, university, or school to rest to have a faster healing process.

After Wisdom Teeth Removal Perth

After your wisdom teeth removal in Perth, ensure to maintain your oral health by following these guidelines:

• Keep the extraction site clean and rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
• Refrain from vigorous rinsing or spitting for 24 hours post-surgery to facilitate clot formation.
• Avoid consuming hot liquids, including tea or soup, as they can dissolve the blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket.
• Do not use straws, as the suction can disrupt the clot.
• Adhering to these instructions can contribute significantly to a swift and comfortable recovery after wisdom teeth removal.

Wisdom Teeth Removal In Acts Dental Perth

If you’re searching for the best solution to wisdom teeth issues, look no further than Acts Dental Perth. We understand that tooth extraction can be an intimidating experience, but our friendly team is dedicated to making your visit as comfortable as possible.

Our dental clinic offers a variety of options for wisdom teeth extraction depending on your personal needs and comfort levels.

For those who feel anxious about dental procedures, we provide laughing gas and sleep dentistry options, allowing you to sleep peacefully while our experts take care of your dental health. General anaesthesia is also available for complex cases or if that’s your preference.

Furthermore, we are proud to be a HBF preferred provider, HCF preferred provider, NIB preferred provider, Bupa preferred provider, and Medibank preferred provider dentist in Perth. Choosing a preferred provider dentist ensures patients benefit from higher rebates and transparent treatment costs. It translates to lower out-of-pocket expenses and guarantees adherence to top-tier dental care standards set by the health funds. This partnership ensures both affordability and quality in dental services.

Take the first step towards better oral health today. Call us on (08) 9474 5083 at Acts Dental Perth for your consultation today, where our commitment to exceptional care and comfort will make your wisdom tooth extraction a smoother, less stressful experience.

We look forward to being a part of your journey towards optimal dental health!