Wisdom Tooth Extraction

WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION

Food is easily trapped between a partially impacted wisdom tooth and the overlying gums. The position of the wisdom tooth makes it challenging to keep it clean as well. These factors make it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria to form, and causing cavities or painful gum diseases to develop.

On the other hand, if the wisdom tooth is growing at an angle towards the second permanent molar, empty pockets may form between the two teeth. Food is easily trapped between them, which cannot be removed by brushing or flossing.

The resulting bacteria that form in these pockets not only causes cavities and decay on the wisdom tooth, but also on the adjacent molar as well. When that happens, additional procedures, such as root canal treatment, may be done to restore them, which is costlier. In severe cases, you may even lose your permanent second molars.

The wisdom tooth can also develop in a sac within the jawbone, which may fill with fluid to form a cyst that damages the jawbone, surrounding teeth, and nerves. Rarely, a non-cancerous tumour develops, which may require the removal of tissue and bone.

Such conditions develop over time and without warning. When signs and symptoms do show up, it causes distress, anxiety, more costly dental treatments and unnecessary schedule disruptions.
Initial Consultation

During the initial visit with your dentist, he will do a comprehensive dental examination and take some x-ray of your mouth to check the wisdom teeth’s alignment and condition. Surgery may be recommended by the dentist, depending on the wisdom teeth’s condition.