Wisdom Teeth Removal
Comfortable In-chair Wisdom Teeth Removal
We comprehend that having a wisdom tooth extraction may seem a little frightening. That is why at Alpha Dental, we’ll take the time to sit down and explain treatment and payment options, including the choice of general or local anaesthetic, answer all of your concerns, and ensure that you’re happy with the suggested course of action.
- We provide a tailored solution suited to your needs and budget.
- Our services provide a comfortable, relaxed and pain-free in-chair experience.
- We have a complete range of anaesthesia options — local and general. If you prefer to be asleep while removing your wisdom teeth, we have a fully qualified anaesthetist for your safety and comfort. The surgery would take place in the day-surgery hospital.
- All private health funds accepted, including Medibank, HCF and CBHS.
Our dentist will generally discuss the current state of your wisdom teeth when x-rays are taken in your 6-monthly check-up, scale and clean. However, if you’re experiencing any of the following wisdom teeth symptoms, we recommend contacting Alpha Dental immediately.
- Jaw pain and discomfort
- Swelling of the gums around the tooth
- Bleeding or tenderness around the tooth
- Constant bad breath
- Recurring sore throats
- Foul taste in the mouth when eating
- Cysts forming around the tooth (appear as pockets of liquid)
The wisdom tooth extraction cost is dependent on several factors:
- How many teeth need to be removed?
- How are the teeth extracted — simple or surgical extraction?
- How complex will the procedure be?
- The type of sedation option chosen (local or IV sedation)
The number of wisdom teeth removed will determine how long the procedure will take. The average time required to remove all four wisdom teeth is up to an hour and a half.
After having your wisdom teeth surgery, it’s essential to keep the area clean without disturbing the wound. Create a saltwater rinse by combining and stirring ¼ teaspoon salt with a cup of warm water.
On the first day after your wisdom teeth extraction:
- Take a small gulp of the saltwater solution and gently move your head from side to side to move the solution around your mouth.
- Avoid swishing the solution around your mouth or spitting it out, as this may cause bleeding. After you’ve given it a good rinse, lean over the basin and open your mouth to let the solution out.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can prevent the wound from healing and cause a ‘dry socket’, which can be painful and delay healing.
- Avoid using straws. Suction movement can reopen wounds and hinder the healing process.
- Avoid hard foods. Food debris can get caught in the socket and be hard to remove.
It can take up to 2 weeks to completely recover from a wisdom tooth extraction. Pain and discomfort may last for 3-5 days. However, recovery time can be sped up with proper care and pain medication provided by your dentist.
Healing stages include:
- A blood clot is formed in the first 24 hours.
- Swelling of the mouth and cheeks is reduced after 2-3 days.
- After 7 days, your dentist will remove any remaining stitches.
- From 7-10 days, jaw stiffness and soreness should go away.
- After 2 weeks, all bruising on the face should heal.
- Avoid disturbing the wound in the first 24 hours.
- Take extra care when brushing and avoid brushing near the extraction site.
- Avoid any hot beverages and soups.
- Stay away from foods that require chewing.
- Avoid straws, smoking and alcohol for at least 48 hours.
- Gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
All hard foods should be avoided, and only soft foods like scrambled eggs, blended soups, smoothies, yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and avocados can be consumed.
Wisdom teeth that erupt sideways or do not erupt completely can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may not always cause issues immediately, but over time can result in bacterial infections, overcrowding and damage to neighbouring teeth, as well as affecting your bite and causing intensely painful dental problems that are expensive too.
