For many of us, having our wisdom teeth removed is a rite of passage. These third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood.
While some of us are lucky enough to have enough space in our mouths to accommodate these new arrivals, many face the prospect of wisdom teeth removal surgery.
In the United Kingdom, this procedure is common, and millions of people undergo it every year.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of the surgical removal of wisdom teeth, discussing everything from why it's necessary to what to expect during and after the procedure.
Why Wisdom Tooth Removal Is Necessary
Lack of Space:
One of the primary reasons for having our wisdom teeth removed is the lack of space in the mouth.
Our jaws are often too small to accommodate these extra teeth comfortably, leading to various dental issues.
As a result, overcrowding can occur, potentially causing misalignment of existing teeth.
Impaction:
Wisdom teeth are notorious for becoming impacted, meaning they don't fully emerge from the gumline.
This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can even damage nearby teeth and bone.
Oral Hygiene Challenges:
The location of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth makes them difficult to clean properly
This can result in an increased risk of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems.
The Surgical Procedure
Wisdom tooth removal is typically performed by oral surgeons or dentists with specialised training.
The procedure can be done under local anaesthesia with or without sedation, or in some cases, under general anesthesia, depending on the complexity and patient's preference.
Before the surgery, you'll have a thorough consultation with your oral surgeon. They will assess the condition of your wisdom teeth through X-rays and discuss the options available for anaesthesia.
On the day of the surgery, the chosen anaesthesia will be administered. Local anaesthesia numbs the specific area, while sedation or general anaesthesia will make you more relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.
During surgery, your surgeon or dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue if necessary, and then the wisdom tooth will be extracted.
In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After the tooth is extracted, the incision is stitched up.
The stitches are often dissolvable and will disappear on their own in a few days.
A gauze pad is usually placed over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote clot formation.
Promoting Healing Through PRGF
Platelets Rich in Growth Factor (PRGF) is a relatively recent breakthrough in dentistry and the technology helps to repair the gum tissue around the bone by using your body’s own resources.
Growth factors are proteins which we all have and are naturally found in platelets, and by activating your platelets, we can stimulate and accelerate the tissue healing and regeneration process, effectively reducing healing time post treatment.
And, because it’s coming from your own body, it will never be rejected.
We use PRGF for a number of treatments here at Bridge Street Dental Practice including:
post on extraction
implant placement
bone graft
tissue graft
sinus lifts
…and much more.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery from wisdom tooth removal varies from person to person, but there are some common experiences and guidelines to keep in mind:
Pain and Swelling:
You can expect some pain and swelling after the surgery. You will be prescribed pain medication, and applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling.
Diet:
For the first few days, you'll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet to avoid putting too much pressure on the surgical sites. Soup, yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are good options.
Oral Hygiene:
It's important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide instructions on how to clean your mouth and when to start brushing your teeth again.
Rest and Recovery:
Plan to take it easy for a few days after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, and get plenty of rest to aid in the healing process.
Follow-Up Appointments:
You'll likely have a follow-up appointment to ensure that you are healing properly and to remove any remaining stitches.
The Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal in the UK
The cost of wisdom teeth removal in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the type of anaesthesia used, and your location.
In general, the cost can range from £250 to £450 per tooth for a simple extraction. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or require more extensive surgery, the cost may be higher.
In Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure in the UK.
While it may seem daunting, it's essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing potential complications.
If you're facing the prospect of having your wisdom teeth surgically removed, then rest assured that you're not alone, and we are well-equipped to guide you through the process with care and expertise.
Just remember to follow your after-care instructions for a smooth and speedy recovery, and soon enough, you'll be free from the discomfort of those troublesome wisdom teeth.
If you think you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed then our specialist team, led by Maria Cobo, will be happy to discuss the procedure with you and put your mind at rest.
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