# When Can You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are those pesky, overgrown teeth that sit just behind your front teeth. They can cause pain and difficulty when they come in contact with other teeth and gums. In some cases, they can even require surgery to remove them. Like most people, you probably have wisdom teeth waiting to be extracted. And the good news is that removal is a relatively straightforward procedure. However, a few things should be kept in mind before the extraction process. Here are some tips to help ensure it goes smoothly and you walk away with your wisdom teeth intact.

## What is wisdom teeth removal?
When wisdom teeth are removed, the surgeon removes all of the teeth in a circular or oval pattern around the nerve. This is called a total dental extraction. This is because when these teeth were first grown, they likely moved in ways that didn't align them properly with their sockets.
There are three types of Wisdom Teeth Removal:
1) Simple extractions: These are done when all the teeth in a single row or column are problematic and can be taken out partially. The surgeon will make an opening in the gum tissue and pull out each tooth one by one.
2) Partial extractions: This is when some but not all teeth in a row or column need to be removed. The surgeon opens the gum tissue and draws several teeth on either side. They then close the hole by removing the teeth and filling it with natural healing material like collagen or gumsplasia gel. This technique allows for more accuracy since only those teeth that need to be removed will get pulled out.
3) Total extractions: All teeth in a row or column must be removed entirely due to structural problems with their roots. In this case, the surgeon makes an opening large enough to take out all teeth without going through any gum tissue first.
## When should wisdom teeth be removed?
If you are experiencing pain, difficulty chewing or swallowing, or your wisdom teeth are causing an obstruction, it is time to remove them. Wisdom teeth removal can be done using various techniques, depending on the individual's needs and preferences. The decision to remove wisdom teeth should be made in consultation with a dentist, as each person's situation is unique.
There are three main types of tooth extraction: manual, laser, and ultrasonic. Manual extraction is the most common and involves either a manual scalpel or a needle being used to remove the tooth. Laser extraction uses focused light to break down the tooth and remove it without damaging surrounding tissues. Ultrasonic extraction uses sound waves to break down the tooth and remove it without damaging surrounding tissues. All three methods have advantages and disadvantages; therefore, a decision must be made based on the individual's specific needs and preferences.
Wisdom teeth removal typically takes around two hours but can take longer, depending on the technique used. After surgery, patients will need to rest for several hours as they will likely experience some mild pain and swelling following surgery.
## The risks of wisdom tooth removal
If you are considering wisdom tooth removal, understand the risks. Wisdom teeth are nonexistent in adults and generally don't cause any problems. However, if they become impacted or severe, they can lead to pain, difficulty chewing, and even infection. If you decide to have them removed, your dentist will first try to remove the tooth using a numbing agent and local anesthesia. If that doesn't work, surgery may be necessary. There is a small risk of complications such as nerve damage or even loss of the tooth. Before deciding on having your wisdom teeth removed, talk to your dentist about your situation and what the risks are likely to be.
## After wisdom teeth removal: the post-operative process
After the wisdom teeth removal, there are a few things that you should do to help speed up your recovery.
Here are some tips on how to prepare for surgery and after surgery:
1. Rest: You should take it easy after surgery and let your body heal. This means avoiding vigorous exercise, chewing hard foods, or drinking liquids for at least four hours post-op.
2. Eat healthy foods: A well-rounded diet will help ensure your body has the nutrients it needs to recover quickly. Make sure to include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and lean protein sources like fish or poultry. Avoid sugary snacks, alcohol, processed foods, and caffeine.
3. Get plenty of rest: After surgery, you may need plenty to avoid feeling too sore or uncomfortable. Make sure to schedule regular visits with your dentist so they can check on your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Avoid painkillers: Painkilling medications can be addictive and interfere with healing. If you experience significant pain after surgery, talk to your doctor about alternative treatments like ibuprofen or ice baths.
## Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the timing of wisdom tooth removal will vary depending on your circumstances. However, some general guidelines that can help you decide when it's time to have your wisdom teeth removed include: if there is significant bone loss around the tooth (a sign that the tooth is deteriorating), if there are severe infections or abscesses from the tooth, or if you experience extreme discomfort from chewing or swallowing. If any of these conditions persist for more than six months, it may be time to seek dental care and consider having your wisdom teeth removed.
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255 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300
0249294143
