Surgical removal of wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are third molar teeth and are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Adults have four wisdom teeth, two in the upper and two in the lower jaws.

Why should I get my wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth may become impacted, causing infection, tooth decay, damage to adjacent teeth and gums. Sometimes you may need your wisdom teeth removed because they have cysts and tumours associated with them. Orthodontists sometimes ask you to get them removed to help straighten teeth.

Why do I have impacted wisdom teeth?

Sometimes there is not enough space in your mouth for wisdom teeth to come through, and consequently they become impacted.

What does surgical removal of wisdom teeth involve?

The removal of wisdom teeth is similar to extraction of other teeth in the mouth. Depending on the location and degree of impaction, they may need to be surgically removed. This involves a small cut in the gums and bones to remove the tooth.

Where will I have my wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth can be removed under local or general anaesthetic (whilst asleep). This all depends on the patient’s choice and also the degree of impaction and number of teeth that need to be removed. If it is carried out under general anaesthetic, the surgery will be performed at one of the private hospitals in Canberra. If the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic it will be performed at the Canberra OMFC.

How long is the recovery after surgical removal of wisdom teeth?

You will be provided with a detailed outline of post operative instructions during your consultation.

Every patient is different, but we recommend about 7 days to recover from the procedure. Our team will ensure you are given a medical certificate and appropriate pain relief.

Please see the post-operative instruction form for further information.

What happens on the day of surgery?

If you have a general anaesthetic, we recommend that you mouthwash with Savacol the morning of the procedure and fast (nothing to eat or drink) for 6 hours prior to the scheduled procedure. You will need an adult to pick you up from the hospital and care for you for 24 hours after the procedure.

If it is done under a local anaesthetic in the clinic, we recommend that you eat something prior to the procedure.