Wisdom Tooth Extraction
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Wisdom Tooth Extraction Explained
Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure that is done to remove the third molar tooth. Not every patient has wisdom teeth. In some cases, you might not ever need to extract your wisdom teeth even if you do have them.
What is a wisdom tooth?
A wisdom tooth is the common name for a third molar, typically the last tooth to develop and emerge in the human mouth. These teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and wisdom, hence their name.
Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. However, it is not uncommon for some individuals to have fewer than four, or in rare cases, more than four wisdom teeth.
When wisdom teeth do emerge, they can sometimes cause problems. They may come in at an angle, push against other teeth, or get stuck (impacted) below the gum line. This can lead to pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.
Not everyone experiences issues with their wisdom teeth. Some wisdom teeth come in normally and cause no problems. However, due to the potential for complications, many dentists recommend monitoring wisdom teeth closely and sometimes suggest removal, even if they’re not currently causing issues.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
An impacted wisdom tooth is a third molar at the back of the mouth that does not have enough space to emerge or develop normally. This condition is quite common, often occurring when the jaw is not large enough to accommodate this last set of teeth.
Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at various angles, sometimes even horizontally. They might partially emerge, creating a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection (a condition called pericoronitis). In other cases, they may remain completely hidden beneath the gum and bone.
There are different types of wisdom teeth impaction:
Mesial impaction:
The tooth is angled towards the front of the mouth.
Vertical impaction:
The tooth is positioned correctly but does not fully erupt.
Distal impaction:
The tooth is angled towards the back of the mouth.
Horizontal impaction:
The tooth is angled sideways, often pushing against the adjacent molar.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause various problems, including pain, infection, damage to other teeth, and even cysts or tumors. They can also lead to overcrowding, potentially undoing the effects of orthodontic treatments.
Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause symptoms or problems. However, many dentists could recommend removing them preventively to avoid potential future complications. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the development and position of wisdom teeth, allowing for timely intervention if needed.
Quote:
“A wisdom tooth can be a ticking time bomb. If you have started experiencing discomfort or pain from your wisdom teeth, it might be time to remove them.”
Book an appointment for wisdom tooth extraction.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Benefits
The benefits of heading for a wisdom tooth extraction are:
- Better and easier oral hygiene behind the second molars
- Eliminates discomfort and tooth pain in the wisdom tooth area
- Eliminates potential or risk of oral health problems in the wisdom tooth area
- Eliminates headaches or migraines caused by wisdom teeth infections
- Prevents orofacial pain caused by wisdom teeth infections
- Enables certain orthodontic treatment plans to be executed more smoothly
Here are some of the key advantages of going for a wisdom tooth extraction:
Better oral hygiene
Extracting wisdom teeth can help improve oral hygiene. When wisdom teeth are impacted or only partially emerged, they create hard-to-reach areas in the mouth that are difficult to clean properly.
These spaces often trap food particles and bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and potentially causing decay not only in the wisdom teeth but also in adjacent teeth. By removing problematic wisdom teeth, you eliminate these difficult-to-clean areas. This makes brushing and flossing more effective, allowing for better overall oral hygiene practices. Improved oral hygiene, in turn, can lead to fresher breath, healthier gums, and a reduced risk of cavities and gum disease.
Reduces discomfort and tooth pain
Wisdom tooth extraction can help relieve pain and discomfort.
When wisdom teeth emerge, they can cause considerable pain, especially if they’re impacted or growing at an angle. This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense discomfort that radiates through the jaw and even into the head. Additionally, as wisdom teeth push against other teeth, they can cause general dental discomfort and even headaches.
Removing problematic wisdom teeth helps address the source of this pain. While there may be some temporary discomfort immediately following the extraction, many patients notice improvement as healing progresses. This makes it easier to carry out daily activities without ongoing dental discomfort, enhancing quality of life.
Reduces potential or risk of oral health problems
Wisdom tooth extraction can help prevent a variety of potential oral health issues. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors in the jaw, which can cause significant damage if left untreated.
They can also push against other teeth, leading to misalignment and potentially undoing the effects of previous orthodontic work. Partially emerged wisdom teeth often create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infections like pericoronitis. These infections can spread to other parts of the mouth and even become systemic if left untreated.
By removing wisdom teeth, especially those that are impacted or problematic, you reduce the risk of these complications. This proactive approach to oral health can save you from more serious dental procedures in the future and contribute to better overall health.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction at Elite Dental
If you are thinking of removing your wisdom teeth at Elite Dental Group, the following patient journey will give you a good overview of what happens during your appointment.
| 1st Visit – Consultation and X-rays | During the initial visit, the dentist will perform X-rays or CBCT scans to check on your wisdom teeth and overall gum/bone condition. The X-rays will tell whether your teeth are close to a nerve or sinus, require a simple extraction or surgical extraction, and the exact position of the wisdom tooth as well as its surrounding structures. In the treatment discussion that ensues, our Dental surgeon will then explain in detail the diagnosis and treatment plan with your unique circumstances in mind. |
| 2nd Visit – Wisdom Tooth Extraction | If you are suitable for wisdom tooth extraction, a second appointment will be arranged for you for either a wisdom tooth simple extraction or a wisdom tooth surgical extraction. |
| Sedation | Before the treatment commences, local anesthesia will be rendered to improve your overall comfort during the procedure. Your tooth will be completely numbed. You will not feel any pain during the wisdom tooth extraction procedure. If you have requested for sedation, you may be placed under IV sedation or General Anaesthesia. |
| Post-Operative Care | When your Wisdom Tooth Extraction procedure has been completed, a follow-up appointment will be made for you. The appointment is a quick 15 to 20 minutes check-in with your dentist to ensure that recovery is on track. During your recovery, it is normal to experience soreness and tenderness around the root canal site for a few days. If you experience extreme pain, please contact your dentist immediately. |
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Treatment Duration
A typical wisdom tooth extraction appointment lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. This is entirely dependent on how complex your wisdom tooth extraction procedure is.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction (GBT) Cost in Singapore
The cost of Wisdom Tooth Extraction at Elite Dental Group starts $500 for simple wisdom tooth extractions and $1,500 for surgical wisdom tooth extractions.
To have a full overview of the costs of treatment, please refer to the following table:
| Consultation (inclusive of X-rays) | $100 |
| CBCT (if necessary) | $300 - $450 |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction ( non-surgery vs surgical) | $500 - $2000 ( depending on complexity) |
Financing Wisdom Tooth Extraction
If you are thinking of heading to Elite Dental Group for your wisdom tooth extraction, there are a few ways you can finance your treatment.
| Medisave and CHAS | We are a CHAS and Medisave-accredited dental clinic. |
| Major Banks | We accept interest-free installment payments from all major banks. |
| Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) | We have existing collaborations with BNPL platforms like Atome, and Grab PayLater to help reduce the upfront expenditure of your dental treatments. |
| Dental , Hospitalization and Corporate Insurance | We are on multiple dental and corporate insurance panels to provide more accessible dental care to you. |
Why should I do Wisdom Tooth Extraction with Elite Dental Group?
We understand that Wisdom teeth extractions trigger anxiety and worry for many of our patients and we are committed to approach every unique case in the most detailed and careful manner, with minimal invasiveness in mind.
All of our surgical planning is based on detailed clinical examinations and sophisticated digital 3d CT scans to ensure safety and accuracy and to minimize risks and complications.
We have a multidisciplinary team of dental surgeons and specialist oral and maxillofacial (OMS) surgeons who can handle the most basic uncomplicated extractions to complex and difficult surgical procedures to remove difficult wisdom teeth.
We also offer a complete suite of sedation services from the most basic local anaesthesia, to in- office IV sedation to full General Anaesthesia in a day surgery centre to ensure our patients comfort.
Elite Dental Group has the necessary technology and expertise to perform safe and sterile wisdom tooth extractions. We have a 3D CBCT X-ray to diagnose and assess whether the wisdom tooth is close to a nerve before proceeding with any extractions.
Who will be doing wisdom tooth extraction treatment for you at Elite Dental Group?
At Elite Dental Group, we pride ourselves on having clinicians who use advanced dental care technology equipment available to provide restorative dentistry for your oral health needs.
Your wisdom tooth extraction will be rendered by Dr Gerald Tan and Dr Benjamin Chan.
To view a full list of our dental clinicians who are able to provide specific dental treatment care for you, please refer to the list below:
| Dentists | Dental implants to replace broken, loosened and dislodged teeth. All-on-4 dental implants for replacement of multiple teeth. Wisdom tooth surgery for removal of wisdom tooth. | Dr Gerald Tan |
|---|---|---|
| | Biomimetic dental fillings for dental caries. | Dr Thira Wong |
| | Wisdom tooth extraction for simple and surgical removal of wisdom teeth. | Dr Benjamin Chan |
| Dental Specialists | Oral Surgeons | Dr Lai Juen Bin |
| Dr Albert Lee |
Dentists
Dr Gerald Tan
- Dental implants to replace broken, loosened and dislodged teeth.
- All-on-4 dental implants for replacement of multiple teeth.
- Wisdom tooth extraction for simple and surgical removal of wisdom teeth.
Dr Thira Wong
- Biomimetic dental fillings for dental caries.
Dr Benjamin Chan
- Wisdom tooth extraction for simple and surgical removal of wisdom teeth.
Dental Specialists & Oral Surgeons
Dr Lai Juen Bin & Dr Albert Lee
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Check out our FAQ section for common inquiries and helpful information to guide you.
Do I need a wisdom tooth extraction?
You d not always need a wisdom tooth extraction. It is not always a necessary procedure to undergo. Most dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal for the following reasons:
- Better oral hygiene
- Reduced risk of potential dental problems associated with impacted wisdom teeth
- Reduced risk of pain or infections from wisdom teeth
- As part of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan
- To treat recurring wisdom teeth infections
In some cases, some patients do not ever undertake a wisdom tooth extraction procedure. However, if you wish to mitigate some of the problems you might face in the future, or if it has started to cause you problems like tooth sensitivity, pain or discomfort, you might require a wisdom tooth extraction.
Am I suitable for wisdom tooth extraction?
You are suitable for wisdom tooth extraction if you are currently experiencing one or a combination of the following symptoms:
- Discomfort in your wisdom tooth area
- Redness or swelling of the gums in the wisdom tooth area
- Bleeding gums in the wisdom tooth area
- Swollen jaw
- Difficulty in opening and closing your mouth
- Tooth sensitivity at your wisdom tooth area from hot and cold foods or drinks “
- Inability to brush or floss your wisdom teeth properly
It is important to note that our dental surgeons will also strive to have a detailed understanding of your dental history, overall systemic health and the state of your immune system, prior to detailed surgical planning.
How painful is wisdom tooth extraction?
A wisdom tooth extraction is not meant to be painful. It should not be painful as you will be given local anesthetic or sedation options during your wisdom tooth extraction procedure. This completely numbs your pain while your dentist is extracting your wisdom tooth.
If one of the reasons stopping you from proceeding with wisdom tooth extraction is pain, there is nothing to fear.
What is the difference between a wisdom tooth extraction and a wisdom tooth surgery?
A wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure that is done to remove your wisdom teeth. This can be done through a simple extraction without the need for surgery and stitches.
Wisdom tooth surgery, on the other hand, is a more involved surgical dental procedure that is done to remove a wisdom tooth that might not be entirely visible or that is impacted.
The wisdom tooth might be buried or concealed under your gum. To remove a partially hidden wisdom tooth requires surgery to reveal the tooth under the gums then sectioning the wisdom tooth into multiple parts before removing it carefully.
Can I leave my wisdom teeth in?
Yes it is entirely possible to leave your wisdom teeth in. Many patients choose to retain their wisdom teeth because it does not cause them any pain or discomfort. Our team of dental surgeons would be able to discuss with you the indications and contraindications of wisdom tooth removal in your unique circumstances.
If you do not feel any lingering discomfort or pain from your wisdom teeth, there is no need to rush to a dental clinic to have your wisdom teeth removed. However, if you would like to err on the side of caution, you can have your wisdom teeth removed after discussing the pros and cons of doing so with one of our dental surgeons.
How long is the wisdom tooth extraction procedure going to last?
Each wisdom tooth extraction procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes depending on whether you are undergoing a simple wisdom tooth extraction or a surgical one.
There are certain wisdom teeth extraction cases that might be slightly more complicated (e.g. close proximity to the mandibular nerve or close to your sinuses) that might require a slightly longer duration.
What are the risks of wisdom tooth extraction?
Wisdom tooth extraction carries some risks, including dry socket, infection, nerve damage, and sinus complications. Dry socket can cause persistent pain, while infection may lead to swelling and fever. Nerve damage, though rare, can result in numbness or altered sensation in the lip, tongue, or chin. Sinus issues may occur with upper wisdom tooth removal.
How long will post-surgical wisdom teeth extraction pain last?
The first 24-72 hours are usually the most uncomfortable, with pain gradually subsiding thereafter. However, individual experiences can vary, and some may feel discomfort for up to two weeks.
Your dentist will typically issue you painkillers to cope with the pain that follows after the local anesthetic or sedation has subsided.
Having said that, with careful surgical planning and with minimally invasive surgical and tooth extraction techniques, many of our patients report no pain at all or very minimal discomfort!
What should I look out for post-wisdom tooth extraction?
After wisdom tooth extraction, you should watch for signs of complications. These complications can include excessive bleeding, severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication, fever, or difficulty swallowing.
You should also be on alert for symptoms of dry socket, such as intense pain 3-4 days after surgery or a foul taste in your mouth. Swelling is normal but should start to decrease after a few days. If you notice any unusual or worsening symptoms, you should contact your dentist for advice.
Can I go about with my daily activities after wisdom tooth extraction?
Yes it is possible to go about your daily activities after wisdom tooth extraction. There will be minimal impact. However, you might want to hold off on strenuous activities such as heading for a workout at the gym or heavy lifting to avoid complications. If your job requires you to do physical activities, you might want to lay off these activities for at least one week.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
Heading to a dental clinic can be a scary and almost overwhelming experience. If you have landed on our website, we would like to extend our warmest welcome to you and your family. There is nothing to fear!
Should you require further information about our costs of treatment, or are looking for recommendations for your needs, we invite you to a complimentary consultation with our dentists at a time of your convenience.
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