Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne
All your questions answered about wisdom teeth extraction
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Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal
All your questions answered about wisdom teeth extraction
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, usually start coming in between the ages of 17 and 22. They are found at the very back of your mouth, with two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. While some people experience no issues as these teeth grow, many find that they don’t have enough room to come through properly. This can cause problems like crowding, sore gums, and decay in neighbouring teeth.
Since wisdom teeth sit so far back, they’re trickier to keep clean. Plaque and food particles can easily get trapped around them, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Regular check-ups are important during this stage to keep an eye on their growth and catch any problems early.
Dr Felix Sim
Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne
Common symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth
When wisdom teeth are causing issues, you may experience:
- Pain or swelling: At the back of your mouth, around the gums or jaw due to infection.
- Bad breath: This can result from trapped food particles and infection.
- Difficulty opening your mouth: secondary to gum swelling and infection.
- Headaches or earaches: These can be caused by referred pain from the tooth.
- Sensitivity to cold: This may indicate you have a cavity in your tooth.
If you’re feeling any of these symptoms, don’t wait until it gets worse—reach out! Catching wisdom teeth problems early makes a big difference. Our team at Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists is ready to help you feel better fast. Book a consultation today.
Potential complications of untreated wisdom teeth
When wisdom teeth are left untreated, they can cause quite a few problems:
- Impaction: The teeth can be trapped within the jawbone or gums, causing pain, infection, and damage to other teeth.
- Cyst formation: Impacted wisdom teeth can develop cysts, which may damage the surrounding bone and teeth.
- Tooth decay: Due to difficulty cleaning the area, the surface between the wisdom tooth and the adjacent second molar is prone to decay.
- Gum disease: As they are hard to clean, impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are more likely to harbour bacteria, leading to bone loss and compromise of the adjacent second molar tooth.
Short-term solutions: Antibiotics and other measures
You might be wondering, “Are there any short-term solutions before jumping to wisdom teeth removal surgery?” Yes, there are. If you’re dealing with sudden pain or swelling, temporary measures can help manage the symptoms:
- Pain relievers and mouthwashes: Over-the-counter painkillers and antiseptic rinses can help ease discomfort and keep things clean.
- Antibiotics: In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help reduce swelling and fight off bacteria.
However, it’s important to remember that these medications only offer short-term relief. If symptoms persist, it’s likely that surgical removal will be needed to prevent further complications.
Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne for Wisdom Teeth
Why early wisdom teeth extraction is best
Elective removal of impacted wisdom teeth, even before irreversible damage arise, is often recommended by dental professionals.
Elective removal means of these impacted wisdom teeth between ages 17 and 24 is a much better tolerated with faster recovery and fewer risks compared to removing them later in life.
Dr Jarren Wang
Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne
- Fewer complications: Removing wisdom teeth at a younger age (before the roots are fully formed) generally leads to a faster recovery and reduces the risk of complications like nerve damage or infection.
- Prevention of crowding: Wisdom teeth are often recommended for removal by orthodontist following orthodontic treatment.
- Avoiding damage to adjacent teeth: Early removal reduces the risk of wisdom teeth pressing against neighbouring molars, which can weaken their roots and cause cavities.
Risks of wisdom teeth surgery
Like any surgical procedure, wisdom teeth removal carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is common but typically stops within a few hours.
- Infection: Though rare, infections can occur, particularly if the site isn’t kept clean.
- Dry socket: This painful condition occurs when the blood clot that forms after extraction becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves beneath.
- Nerve damage: There’s a slight risk of nerve injury, especially for lower wisdom teeth. This can cause temporary numbness, tingling or uncomfortable sensation in the lips, tongue, or chin.
Despite these risks, complications are relatively uncommon when surgery is performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
How much does it cost to remove wisdom teeth?
There are a few things that can impact the cost of removing your wisdom teeth. On this page, you’ll find detailed information about the cost of wisdom teeth removal.
Recovery Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne
What to expect after surgery
Post-surgery recovery generally takes a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the extraction. Here’s what to expect and how to manage your recovery:
- Swelling and discomfort: Swelling is common after wisdom teeth removal, peaking within 2-3 days. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce this.
- Pain management: We will likely prescribe pain relievers. Taking these as directed and keeping your head elevated can help manage discomfort.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Porridge, yoghurt, and soup are good options. Avoid spicy or crunchy foods that can irritate the extraction site.
- Oral hygiene: Gentle rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours helps keep the area clean. Avoid brushing the extraction sites directly for a few days.
- Most patients return to normal activities within a week, but it’s crucial to follow post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery. If you experience s
Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne
Why choose Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists?
At Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists in Melbourne, we make your care our top priority. Our skilled team of oral and maxillofacial surgeons has years of experience with everything from routine wisdom teeth removal to complex jaw surgery. We’re all about making your visit as smooth as possible, with clear communication, personalised plans, and a focus on your comfort.
With locations in Werribee, Glen Iris, Springvale, and Box Hill, getting specialist care close to home is easy.
Local dentists and GPs regularly refer patients to us because of our reputation for high-quality results. We’re not just about great outcomes—we’re about making you feel at ease from start to finish. Book your consultation today.
Recovery Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne
What to expect after surgery
Where do you consult?
You can visit us at one of our four Melbourne locations: Werribee, Glen Iris, Springvale, and Box Hill. Just call us to book an appointment or use our web form.
Will wisdom teeth removal hurt?
You might feel some discomfort during the healing process, but painkillers can help manage it. Swelling is also common, but using ice packs can reduce it. Our oral surgeons ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.
How long does wisdom teeth removal take?
It varies depending on the complexity of your case. Some extractions can be done in as little as 15-30 minutes, while more complex cases might take longer. Your surgeon will give you a clearer idea of the expected timeframe during your initial consultation.
Do I need a referral for wisdom teeth removal surgery?
No, you do not need a referral to see our specialist surgeons. However, without a referral, you will not be able to claim any Medicare benefits for your consultation.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
The cost varies based on the complexity of the extraction and whether you choose local or general anaesthesia. We’ll provide a clear cost estimate during your initial consultation.
On this page, you’ll find detailed information about the cost of wisdom teeth removal.
What’s the difference between having a dentist remove my wisdom teeth and a maxillofacial surgeon?
Many dentists are highly skilled at performing straightforward wisdom teeth extractions. However, for more complex cases—like impacted teeth or when multiple teeth need to be removed at once—they may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Our specialist surgeons have extensive experience with these more involved procedures, which means they can often perform the extraction efficiently and with additional options for comfort, such as general anaesthesia or sedation, in a private hospital setting.
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons work closely with your dentist to make sure you receive care that’s best suited to your specific needs.
How long will I be off work/school after wisdom teeth surgery?
Most patients need 2-3 days off, but this depends on how you feel and the complexity of the procedure. We recommend planning for up to a week, just to be safe.
Do I need someone to drive me home after wisdom teeth removal?
Yes, if you’re having sedation or general anaesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It’s best to have a support person on hand for the first day.
When can I start brushing my teeth again after wisdom teeth removal?
You can start brushing your teeth gently the day after surgery, but be careful around the extraction sites.