Wisdom Tooth Extraction | Dr Vishal Tapadia

What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom teeth are the four teeth (two on the top row and two on the bottom row) which are located at the back corners of the mouth. The extraction of any one these teeth is referred to as Wisdom Tooth Extraction and involves surgery, usually performed by a qualified and experienced dentist or an oral surgeon.

Wisdom teeth are the final and the third set of permanent teeth which usually erupts (emerges from the gums) between the ages of 17 and 25. Due to its somewhat late blooming, sometimes a wisdom tooth may not find enough room to grow in the mouth, cause overcrowding or erupt in the wrong position. In this case, the tooth is referred to as an impacted wisdom tooth and may cause pain, infection or other dental issues. Due to these reasons, some dentists actually recommend extraction even though an impacted wisdom tooth may not currently cause discomfort in order to avoid potential future problems.

When is a Wisdom Tooth said to be Impacted?

A wisdom tooth is said to be impacted if it exists in any of the following conditions:

• It leans toward the neighbouring tooth (second molar)
• It grows angularly and toward the back of the mouth
• It is perpendicular to the neighbouring tooth (second molar) and appears to be lying down within the jawbone
• It stays trapped within the jawbone and grows straight up or inversely

What are the Problems Caused by an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth can cause a range of dental problems, such as:

• Pain
• Food and debris can be trapped behind the tooth which allows bacteria to grow and creates cavities
• Infection or gum disease
• Partially erupted wisdom tooth can cause tooth decay
• Surrounding tooth or bone can be damaged
• Cysts (fluid-filled sacs) can form
• Teeth straightening can become complicated
• Difficulty in cleaning and flossing

Wisdom Tooth Extraction at Tapadiya’s Dental Casa

Dr Tapadiya, after a thorough evaluation provides a treatment plan for the extraction process including the type of anaesthesia. Depending upon the nature or complexity of the surgery, either local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia will be recommended so that the patient does not feel any pain during the extraction and is comfortable.

How is a Wisdom Tooth Extracted?

At Tapadiya’s Dental Casa, wisdom tooth extraction procedures have been established with the comfort and convenience of the patient as the most important priority. The process takes around 45 minutes during which necessary steps are taken to eliminate pain during the surgery such that the entire operation results in a satisfying experience. The following is a brief overview of the extraction process:

• An incision is made in the gum tissue which exposes the tooth and bone
• The bone which blocks the root of the tooth is then removed
• Sometimes the wisdom tooth may have to be cut up into pieces for ease of removal
• The wisdom tooth is then extracted completely
• The site of the surgery is cleaned thoroughly
• The wound is then stitched which promotes healing
• Sometimes medical gauze may be placed to control bleeding and accelerate clotting

After the surgery, Dr Tapadiya will provide a list of instructions for recovery which typically takes around 2 weeks and deals with bleeding, pain management and swelling