Wisdom Tooth

Wisdom tooth is the third (last) molar on each side of the jaw, but do bear in mind that some people never grow wisdom teeth. For those whom do, the number may vary from one to four – and on very rare occasions, more than four.

Why does it need to be removed? 

Since wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to erupt, there is often not enough space left in the jaw to accommodate them. Thus, the wisdom teeth has a possibility to emerge at an angle, causing it to be partially emerged. Wisdom teeth that grows like this are known as impacted. If the teeth are impacted, swelling and tenderness may occur. Occasionally, wisdom teeth is removed for braces purposes.

What happen during the surgical removal of wisdom tooth?

Before the surgical procedure, you will be given a local anaesthetic injection to numb the area around the tooth. A cut is made in your gum to expose the tooth and bone. The tooth maybe cut into smaller pieces before it is removed. After the tooth is removed, the socket is thoroughly cleaned and stitched up. You are expected to come back a week later for review and get the suture removed. 

 Pain killers and other medication will be prescribed accordingly.The time it takes to remove the tooth may vary, ranging from an hour to two.