Wisdom Tooth Extraction

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WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION IN LEEDS

Wisdom tooth extraction can prevent potential oral health issues and lead to a healthier, pain-free smile. If you are experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth or suspect they may need removal, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation at our Leeds practice.

WHAT ARE WISDOM TEETH?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically appear between the ages of 17-25. They are located at the back of the mouth, one on each side of the upper and lower jaws. Our ancestors needed these extra teeth to grind down tough food like roots and meats. However, with advancements in diet and oral hygiene, our jaws have become smaller, leaving inadequate space for the proper eruption of wisdom teeth.

WHY MIGHT I NEED MY WISDOM TEETH REMOVED?

For some patients, wisdom teeth erupt without causing any issues. For many others, they can lead to various dental problems due to factors like lack of space in the jaw or misalignment.

IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH:

When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to fully emerge, they can become trapped beneath the gum line. This is known as impaction and can cause swelling, pain and even infections.

CROWDING:

Wisdom teeth can put pressure on existing teeth, causing them to shift and become misaligned, leading to potential orthodontic problems.

INFECTIONS AND GUM DISEASE:

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets around them, making it challenging to clean properly. This can result in the accumulation of bacteria, leading to gum disease and infections.

CYSTS:

In rare cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially causing damage to the surrounding bone and other teeth.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION IN LEEDS?

Before the extraction procedure, one of our clinicians in Leeds will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. If extraction is deemed necessary, the process will generally involve the following steps:

ANAESTHESIA:

Local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the wisdom tooth, ensuring you experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. In some cases or if multiple teeth are being extracted, your clinician may recommend general anaesthesia or sedation.

INCISION AND TOOTH REMOVAL:

If the tooth is impacted, your clinician will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. They may need to divide the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. Non-impacted teeth can be extracted more easily without the need for an incision.

CLEANING AND STITCHING:

After the tooth is removed, the area will be thoroughly cleaned. If necessary, stitches will be used to close the incision.

GAUZE:

A gauze will be placed over the wound to control bleeding.

RECOVERY FROM WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL

Following wisdom tooth removal, our clinicians in Leeds will provide you with post-operative instructions to aid a smooth recovery.

Some discomfort and swelling are normal after the procedure. We may suggest over-the-counter pain medication or recommend ice packs to help alleviate the swelling. Keeping your mouth clean is vital during recovery. Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the extraction area for the first few days. You should also stick to a soft diet for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the wound. Opt for smoothies, soups and yoghurt. Our clinicians would also recommend refraining from smoking, as this can disrupt the healing process.

WHEN WOULD I NEED AN EMERGENCY WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION?

While the majority of wisdom tooth extractions are routine and planned, certain situations may require immediate attention. If you are experiencing pain, unexplained bleeding, swelling or other signs of an infection, please contact our Leeds practice as soon as possible by calling 0113 868 4324. If your symptoms are severe or you are having difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.