What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a damaged tooth or a tooth damaged beyond repair from the socket in the jaw. This is usually done under local anaesthetic. The goal is to remove the troublesome damaged or infected tooth from the oral cavity once all other efforts to salvage it have been exhausted.
Tooth extraction may be necessary for various reasons, including dental decay, gum disease, overcrowding, or trauma.
Am I suitable to get this treatment?
One of the main factors to consider is the overall health of the patient. Factors such as the condition of the tooth, the presence of any underlying dental problems, the patient’s overall health, and their ability to heal properly post-extraction are taken into consideration.
Additionally, extractions are considered for patients who have exhausted other options. The aim is always to save the tooth, and therefore, the patient should try less invasive measures and other treatments, such as root canal treatment, to avoid extraction. However, if these are not successful, extraction may be most suitable to prevent further dental infections and issues.
Furthermore, individuals with compromised immune systems, uncontrolled medical conditions such as diabetes, or those taking medications that affect blood clotting may not be suitable candidates for tooth extraction due to the increased risk of complications during and after the procedure.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are extra teeth, also known as third molars, which are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. We usually get these from our late teens (around 17 years) onwards until the age of 25. Because of their late arrival, there can be issues associated with these teeth due to the limited space available in the mouth.
This can lead to complications such as:
Impaction
This occurs when the teeth only partially emerge or grow at an angle due to limited space in the mouth. This can cause inflammation, swelling, or cysts in the jaw if not treated.
Crowding and misalignment
This means that the wisdom teeth push against the surrounding teeth and disrupt the alignment that may have previously been seen in the mouth or achieved through orthodontic treatment. This can lead to additional orthodontic work to realign any teeth that may have moved while the wisdom teeth were erupting.
When would you need to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Impaction- If wisdom teeth only partially erupt at an angle or grow horizontally beneath the gum line they may need to be removed. This is due to the risk of pain, swelling and potential infection.
Crowding or misalignment - The eruption of wisdom teeth may lead to crowding or misalignment. This can cause issues with one’s bite, hinder one’s ability to effectively clean their teeth and increase the risk of decay and gum disease.
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Alternative treatments
If the dentist feels the case is complex, you may be referred to an oral surgeon for the extraction.
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Wisdom tooth removal procedure
Basic extractions can be used to remove mild cases of impaction or other minor issues with wisdom teeth. This would follow the same procedure that is used for the extraction of any other tooth in the mouth.
For more complicated cases, dental surgery is commonly used to remove the wisdom teeth that are causing issues. More than one tooth can be taken during these surgeries.
Consultation
Before the teeth are removed, the dentist or oral surgeon will take x-rays or 3D scans of your teeth to assess their position, roots, and nerves. This is then used to make the plan for the extraction. It is at this point that a dentist may decide to refer you to an oral surgeon. Furthermore, a decision will be made to do the procedure under local or general anaesthetic.
Surgical removal
Once the chosen anaesthetic has been administered, the surgeon will make a small incision to access the tooth. The tooth is then sectioned and removed in smaller pieces using the appropriate dental tools.
Closing the site
Once the tooth has been removed, stitches will be used to close the gum and gauze placed to control bleeding. The procedure should take between 20–60 minutes.
Questions about Wisdom Teeth
Frequently Asked Questions
What to eat after wisdom tooth extraction?
After a wisdom tooth extraction, a soft or liquid diet should be followed in the first 24 hours to allow healing.
Suitable foods include smoothies, mashed potatoes, yoghurt, and scrambled eggs.
Gradually reintroduce solid foods as healing progresses, ensuring they do not irritate the surgical site.
Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic, as they may cause pain and delay healing.
Do not eat foods that can get stuck in the surgical site, such as seeds and nuts.
Stay hydrated by drinking water, but avoid using straws as suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket.
How long does a wisdom tooth extraction take?
The procedure usually takes between 20–60 minutes per tooth.
The time may be longer if the tooth is impacted or requires surgical intervention.
What to expect 72 hours after wisdom tooth extraction?
Some bleeding is normal in the first few hours post-surgery. Bite down gently on gauze for about 45 minutes to help a clot form.
Soreness, swelling, and bruising are expected in the following days.
Use ice packs wrapped in cloth to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Anti-inflammatory tablets and over-the-counter pain medication can help manage pain.
If pain, swelling, or bruising persists beyond 72 hours, contact your dentist or surgeon.
How much is a wisdom tooth extraction?
Costs typically range from €150 to €300 per tooth.
Complex extractions, such as impacted teeth requiring surgery, may cost more.
Medication costs are not usually included.
Some healthcare policies may partially or fully cover wisdom tooth extraction.
In many cases, patients pay upfront and claim back costs from their insurance provider.
While the cost may seem high, avoiding extraction can lead to infection, crowding, and pain.
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
The procedure itself is painless because a local anaesthetic is used.
After extraction, pain, swelling, and bleeding are common for a few days.
Manage discomfort with prescribed pain medication, ice packs, and soft foods.
The long-term benefits usually outweigh the short-term discomfort.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the molars do not have enough space to fully emerge.
The tooth may become stuck or wedged against neighbouring teeth.
Symptoms can include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty opening the mouth.
Complications may include infections, cysts in the jaw, or damage to nearby teeth and bone.
Dental treatment should be sought if you suspect an impacted wisdom tooth.
How long does swelling last after wisdom tooth extraction?
Swelling usually peaks within 48 hours after the procedure.
It begins to decrease over the next five days but may last up to 10 days.
Apply ice packs (wrapped in cloth) to the area for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off during the first 24 hours.
Follow post-operative instructions and take prescribed medication to manage swelling and discomfort.
Prolonged or severe swelling should be reported to your dentist or oral surgeon.
Signs of infection, such as redness, pus, or worsening pain, must be addressed immediately.
How long does it take to heal after wisdom tooth extraction?
In the first 24 hours, expect bleeding, pain, and swelling. Follow your dentist’s aftercare advice.
Over the next 48 hours, swelling peaks and then starts to subside. Healing continues during the week.
After 2–3 weeks, a blood clot and new tissue usually cover the extraction site.
Complete healing of bone and soft tissue can take up to 3 months.
How to sleep after wisdom tooth extraction?
Take prescribed pain medication to ease discomfort.
Use an extra pillow to elevate your head slightly, reducing swelling and pain.
Creating a comfortable sleep environment aids recovery.
Contact your dentist if pain or sleep difficulties persist.
What to eat after tooth extraction?
Soft foods: Choose gentle foods that require little chewing, such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, soups, and smoothies.
Nutrient-rich foods: Eat foods high in vitamins and minerals like leafy greens, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to support healing.
Hydrating beverages: Drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary or acidic drinks that can irritate the extraction site.
Avoid hard, chewy, or spicy foods: Stay away from nuts, seeds, crunchy snacks, and spicy foods, as these can delay healing.
How to deal with wisdom tooth pain?
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
Apply a cold compress (wrapped in cloth) to reduce swelling.
Use over-the-counter painkillers and salt water rinses for relief.
If the pain persists, seek dental assistance.
Severe or ongoing pain requires professional evaluation and treatment.
Are tooth extractions safe?
Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure.
They are generally safe when pre-operative and post-operative instructions are followed.