Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth. They usually begin to emerge during the late teens or early twenties, although the timing varies from person to person. Some people never develop them, while others have wisdom teeth that remain beneath the gums.
Wisdom teeth do not always cause problems or need to be removed. However, they can become painful, infected or difficult to clean if there is not enough room for them to emerge properly.
Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your wisdom teeth and recommend further assessment if there are signs of a problem.
Do All Adults Need Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
No. Healthy wisdom teeth, correctly positioned and easy to clean, can remain in place. A dentist may simply monitor them during routine check-ups.
Removal may be recommended if a wisdom tooth is causing or is likely to cause a specific problem. This can include repeated gum infections, tooth decay, damage to a nearby tooth, a cyst or ongoing pain.
Your dentist may take an X-ray to check the position of the tooth, its roots and the surrounding structures before discussing whether treatment is needed.
When to Look for Signs of Wisdom Tooth Problems
Wisdom teeth commonly begin to emerge in the late teens or early twenties, but they can emerge or cause problems at other ages. There is no single age at which everyone needs a separate wisdom tooth consultation.
Your dentist can monitor developing or unerupted wisdom teeth as part of your regular dental care. You should arrange an appointment sooner if you notice pain, swelling or other changes near the back of your mouth.
Signs That Wisdom Teeth May Be Problematic
Wisdom teeth can emerge gradually, and symptoms may come and go. Signs that may require a dental assessment include:
- pain, tenderness or swelling at the back of the mouth
- red, swollen or bleeding gums around a wisdom tooth
- repeated gum infections around a partly erupted tooth
- food regularly becoming trapped around the tooth
- an unpleasant taste or bad breath that does not improve with normal oral hygiene
- difficulty opening the mouth or discomfort when chewing.
Your dentist can identify the cause of these symptoms and determine whether monitoring, treatment or removal is appropriate.
Know What to Expect
An assessment does not automatically mean that your wisdom teeth will be removed. Your dentist will examine your mouth, ask about your symptoms and may take an X-ray. They can then explain whether the teeth can be monitored or whether treatment is recommended.
First Consultation
During the consultation, your dentist will assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. An X-ray is often used to show how the teeth are developing and whether they are close to nearby teeth, bone or nerves. More detailed imaging may be recommended in some cases.
If removal is appropriate, your dentist will explain the procedure, the type of anaesthetic or sedation that may be used, the possible risks and what to expect during recovery. More complex cases may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Preparing for Wisdom Tooth Removal
The way a wisdom tooth is removed depends on its position and how difficult it is to access. Some wisdom teeth can be removed with a straightforward extraction under local anaesthetic. Others may require a surgical procedure, particularly if they are impacted or remain beneath the gum.
Fasting is not required for every wisdom tooth removal. It may be necessary if you are having intravenous sedation or a general anaesthetic. Follow the specific eating and drinking instructions provided by your dentist. Do not fast unless you have been told to do so.
Tell your dentist about any health conditions, allergies, medicines or supplements you take. You should also arrange transport and support if you will be receiving sedation or a general anaesthetic. Avoid smoking or vaping after the procedure, as this can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the number and position of the teeth removed, the complexity of the procedure and the type of anaesthetic used. Many people return to normal activities the following day after a straightforward removal. You may need one to three days away from work or study after a more complex procedure, although tenderness, swelling or jaw stiffness can last for up to two weeks.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. These may include:
- eating soft foods
- taking recommended pain relief
- cleaning your mouth carefully without disturbing the blood clot over the socket.
Your dentist may recommend applying a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for short periods during the first day to help manage swelling.
Contact your dentist if bleeding does not stop or if pain and swelling are severe, worsening or accompanied by fever, a persistent bad taste or feeling unwell.
Book Your Sutherland Shire Wisdom Tooth Consultation Today
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed, but they should be assessed if they are causing pain, swelling, repeated infections or other dental problems.
At Shire Doctors & Dentists, our dental team can examine your wisdom teeth, arrange appropriate imaging and discuss whether monitoring or removal is suitable. If treatment is recommended, the team can explain the procedure and help you prepare for your appointment and recovery.
Contact Shire Doctors & Dentists in Caringbah to book a dental consultation or ask about wisdom tooth assessment and removal.