What Is Impacted Wisdom Tooth

Wisdom teeth are the back teeth in your mouth, also known as the third molar teeth. They usually appear (erupt) during the late teens or early twenties. Some wisdom teeth do not fully emerge and become stuck (or impacted) on adjacent teeth or bones. This usually results in a flap of gum covering your teeth. Others grow too long (over-erupt).

An impacted wisdom tooth is a tooth that has not developed fully in the mouth. It can be difficult to see an impacted wisdom tooth because it’s often hidden behind other teeth or under gums.

Also Read :- How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost?

Because the jaw sometimes lacks space for the new wisdom teeth to come out through the gums, they can get stuck, and their eruption typically causes pain and needs removal.

Risks and Disadvantages of
Untreated Impacted Wisdom Tooth

While you normally have about 32 teeth in your mouth, your jaw may sometimes be too small to hold them all. If there is insufficient space for wisdom teeth to emerge correctly, they may erupt at an angle. Before long, it may begin to press against nearby teeth, producing pain and irritation to the cheek and gums. The wisdom tooth will have erupted and become impacted.
If an impacted wisdom tooth is left untreated, it can lead to further dental problems or a risk of complications:
  • Gum infection
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth decay
  • Tooth damage
  • Jaw cyst
  • Oozing pus (or abscess)
  • Bone damage
  • Erosion cavities
  • Crowding and crooked teeth.
  • Food debris can get stuck in the space between the impacted tooth and the gum tissue, which is prone to infection.
If wisdom teeth are not removed, a cyst might grow around it and replace the tooth. It can cause bone damage as well as harm to other teeth and gums. An impacted wisdom tooth may continue to push against the tooth next to it. It can result in an erosion cavity when the wisdom teeth clash with the other molar. This usually causes severe damage to both teeth. Wisdom teeth can become infected or abscessed. It is common for both teeth to be extracted.

Why Choose
Ashburton Dental Centre for Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Ashburton Dental Centre
The dentist at Ashburton Dental Centre will be able to determine if your wisdom teeth are impacted. Our dental professionals will also explain the risks and disadvantages of untreated, impacted wisdom teeth, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not they should stay in place. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that is safe when performed correctly.
We understand the importance of advanced technology. Thus, our clinic is facilitated with the latest equipment for the safety and effectiveness of our patients. We also offer affordable wisdom teeth removal and payment options as we believe that everyone does not need to exceed their budget to have the dental treatments they need.
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(08) 9490-8777

Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost Perth

The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Perth can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, the number of teeth to be removed, and the individual’s specific dental needs. On average, a straightforward extraction of a single wisdom tooth might range from $200 to $500. However, more complex cases or impacted wisdom teeth could cost between $300 to $800 per tooth. Dental clinics may also consider additional fees for consultation, X-rays, anesthesia, or follow-up appointments, impacting the overall cost. It’s advisable to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon in Perth to get an accurate estimate tailored to your situation.

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(08) 9490-8777

FAQ's About Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Gosnells

The cost of wisdom teeth removal may depend on several factors, such as the location of the dental clinic, oral examination fee, dental x-ray, and the type of removal of wisdom teeth, or how complex the procedure will be. In general, here’s the average cost of wisdom tooth removal in Australia:

  • 1 tooth extraction: $234.95
  • Sectional removal of a tooth (or parts): $305.43
  • Surgical removal of a tooth or tooth fragment not requiring removal of bone or tooth division: $339.06
  • Surgical removal tooth or fragment with bone removal: $389.34
  • Surgical removal of a tooth or tooth fragment requiring both removals of bone and tooth division: $452.06

If your dentist determines that your wisdom teeth must be removed to prevent serious oral health concerns, you may be a candidate for a wisdom tooth removal. Even if you are not experiencing any discomfort, your wisdom teeth may be impacted or stuck, which means they cannot break through the jaw.

Here are some of the signs that you are a suitable candidate for wisdom teeth removal:

  • Sinus problems. When your wisdom teeth cause problems, you may experience sinus pressure, congestion, and significant discomfort. When you experience sinus problems due to your wisdom teeth, your dentist will usually advise you to have them extracted.
  • Jaw problems. Cysts can also grow around your wisdom teeth as they grow in. If left untreated, this can lead to jaw hollowing and nerve damage. This suggests it’s time to have these teeth extracted.
  • Damaged teeth. When your wisdom teeth erupt, they may push against your other teeth. This could lead to biting issues or oral pain. They can cause damage to surrounding teeth if they emerge at the wrong angle. Impacted teeth can significantly increase the chances of tooth decay in neighbouring teeth. If your wisdom teeth are causing damage to your other teeth, you should have them extracted.
  • You have cavities. If the gums around your wisdom teeth swell, pockets may develop between the teeth. Bacteria can grow easily in these pockets, increasing the risk of cavities.
  • Gum irritation. If you’re experiencing gum irritation, it is another indication that you should get your wisdom teeth removed. The tissue surrounding your wisdom teeth may swell, making it difficult to clean your teeth.
  • Infection and discomfort. Wisdom teeth can become infected and cause severe pain. If you’re experiencing a lot of pain from your wisdom teeth, such as pain in the jaw and surrounding area, it’s time to get these teeth removed.
  • Bad breath or bad taste. An upper wisdom tooth can irritate your sinuses as they emerge, resulting in blockages, sinus infections, and unpleasant breath due to nasal discharge in your throat.

The only alternative to wisdom teeth removal is keeping them. While some people can maintain their wisdom teeth, most others do not have that option because delaying removal can lead to significant complications.

If you start to experience mild pain, the dentist may recommend simple pain relievers, such as paracetamol, which can assist in managing mild pain caused by wisdom teeth.

When the area around the wisdom tooth is infected, antibiotics, antiseptic mouthrinse or rinsing with warm salt water can help alleviate discomfort and inflammation.

The dentist will observe your impacted wisdom tooth for further symptoms. If the pain persists and you notice the area continues to inflame, it is recommended to consult a dentist.

Wisdom teeth extraction is usually a simple and painless procedure in the hands of an experienced dentist. Before any surgery begins, our dentists will ensure that you have enough anesthesia to avoid any discomfort. You should feel only a little pressure when the tooth is gently rocked back and forth, but you should never feel pain.

Our Gosnells dentists have experience in dental extractions, including wisdom teeth removal. We aim to provide a comfortable experience at Ashburton Dental Centre. Typically, this procedure may take 45 minutes or less.

If your dentist decides that wisdom teeth must be removed, they may provide a local or general anaesthetic. While you’re in the dental chair, your dentist may be able to extract the wisdom tooth with the help of a local anaesthetic.

However, if the case is complex because of the position or shape of the roots, your dentist may recommend you to an oral surgeon specialist. Surgeons undertake these procedures in the hospital while you are unconscious and under general anaesthesia.

A wisdom tooth removal procedure involves cutting the gum to expose the tooth, removing bone around the tooth, and dividing the tooth using a drill.

The extraction site is then cleaned, and any remaining debris is removed. If necessary, the wound is stitched before gauze is placed over it to control bleeding and promote the formation of a blood clot.

Medicare does not cover all dental services, so wisdom tooth extraction is not covered routinely in Australia. This means there will be an out-of-pocket expense. Having a high level of extra coverage is necessary to cover wisdom tooth removal. Sometimes, additional insurance benefits cover wisdom teeth removal if it is required due to an impacted tooth. Additional coverage policies usually cover dental treatments like fillings, but not more invasive procedures like wisdom tooth extractions.

The basic ways to manage pain and swelling are to apply ice and take pain medication. Discuss with your dentist how often you should apply an ice pack to your face. Do not apply ice straight to your face, as this might cause an ice burn. They will also advise you on whether you should take prescribed or over-the-counter medications.

You may also be advised to take antibiotics during recovery time. This is to avoid infection when your mouth is susceptible to bacteria. Make sure to finish the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your dentist.

Recovery from wisdom teeth will depend on your case. Most patients fully recover from wisdom teeth surgery within three to four days. But, if your teeth are impacted or erupt at an awkward angle, the healing process may take a whole week.

The day after surgery, you can resume normal daily activities, but avoid any strenuous activity that could dislodge your stitches or the blood clot over your wound.

  • Change diet

It is best to prevent adding pressure or suction to the wound for the first 24 hours after removal. If you need to rinse your mouth, try to be gentle. Stick to a soft diet, such as soup or mashed potatoes; – opt for soft foods that require less chewing. Your dentist or surgeon will advise you on when you can begin resuming foods from your regular diet; typically, people wait four days before attempting to return to hard or chewy foods.

  • Prevent the risk of dry socket

An adult tooth extraction leaves an empty socket, where normally a blood clot forms. This blood clot acts as a protective blanket, covering any exposed bone or nerve ends. Not having it or having it dislodged can cause pain and allow food debris into the socket. Keep an eye out for pain in the days after your extraction. See your dentist or surgeon if you have pain in your teeth, jaws, face, or neck. Dry sockets can arise for a variety of reasons.

A dry socket can occur if you use alcohol, smoke, or some contraceptives while recovering. It’s critical to properly follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s recommendations to avoid problems like dry socket.

  • Keep your mouth and teeth clean.

After the surgery, you may be able to resume brushing your teeth carefully. Make sure you’re extra careful around the empty tooth socket and ask your dentist for tips on how to keep your teeth clean.

You can resume your normal activities after the procedure. Some swelling, pain, and bleeding is common. If the pain or bleeding is severe and unpleasant, contact your dentist immediately. Some of the things you should avoid after removal include:

  • Strenuous exercise
  • Smoking
  • Spitting out
  • Drinking from a straw
  • Eating hard, crunchy, and sticky foods

Keeping yourself hydrated and eating healthy food is essential for the healing process, even if you may not have a great appetite following the surgery. In the first few days of recovery, ask your doctor for specific recommendations on what you can consume. Consider foods that require little chewing and will not harm your blood clot or stitches.

Soft foods:

  • Cottage cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Apple sauce
  • Pudding
  • Blended soup
  • Mashed potatoes or fruits
  • Smoothies
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Avocado, banana

When eating, avoid the following:

  • Food that is extremely hot and can burn the site of the surgery
  • It would be best if you avoided nuts and seeds that may get stuck in the socket where your wisdom teeth used to be.
  • Slurping from a spoon or using a straw can cause your blood clot or stitches to dislodge.

Book An Appointment With Our Gosnells Dental Team Today

We're located in the Ashburton Village Shopping Centre next to the Ashburton Primary School. If you have questions about getting the dental care you need, call or book online today!

(08) 9490-8777 Or   Book Online