The Trusted Dentist for Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Ballarat
Wisdom teeth unfortunately do not bring about newfound wisdom when they appear. They get their name from the mature age (17 to 25) at which they usually begin to come through your gums. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are found on the top and bottom of both sides of your jaw at the back of your mouth.
Should you have passed the ‘wisdom tooth’ age and not seen yours yet, don’t panic. Whilst most people develop all four wisdom teeth, some people may only develop a few, or in rare cases, none at all. It’s also important to note that you may not see your wisdom teeth, even if they are there. Sometimes they may linger under the gum line without ever erupting. This is why a dental x-ray is often needed to assess your wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth vary significantly from patient to patient. Some erupt without difficulty and live harmoniously in your mouth with your other teeth. Others may cause serious discomfort and oral health issues down the line, in which case it may be better to remove them.
If you need wisdom teeth removal Ballarat, you’re in safe hands at Dana Street Dental.
Why You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
Not all wisdom teeth need removing, but for many patients, they do. The most common problem we see with these third molars is that they just don’t fit. The majority of people will have their wisdom teeth come through their gums (or attempt to) when their mouth is already fully developed. When there is no space for these late bloomers to come through your gums without issue, they become what we refer to in the dental world as impacted.
Impacted wisdom teeth may only partially erupt or not erupt at all. This can lead to:
- Pain and discomfort as your wisdom teeth try to work their way out
- Higher risk of tooth decay as a result of crevices/gum flaps for bacteria to get trapped in
- Infection, cyst or an abscess around the area of your impacted wisdom tooth/teeth
You don’t need your wisdom teeth to eat, speak or smile. So, it doesn’t make sense to keep them in your mouth at the risk of negatively impacting your oral health and potentially your overall health too. At Dana Street Dental, we suggest that patients have their first wisdom teeth assessment in their mid to late teens.
Our Ballarat dentists are here to help you assess your wisdom teeth for removal. If you do need wisdom teeth extraction, our experienced team can carry out the treatment here in our Ballarat dental rooms, or if need be, under general anaesthesia at hospital.
The Process for Wisdom Tooth Removal
The process for having wisdom teeth removed may differ from one patient to another depending on several factors. These may include the size and position of your wisdom teeth and whether they have wholly erupted, partially erupted or are completely under the gumline.
Generally speaking, after your initial consultation, the process looks like this:
Before Wisdom Tooth Extraction
During Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After Wisdom Tooth Removal
If an incision was needed, your dentist may place a dissolving stitch or two to aid your gum’s healing. You’ll be provided with a piece of gauze to bite down onto which will help stop any bleeding. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions. Though, the general rule of thumb is that you will need to avoid rinsing your mouth or exercise for the initial 24 hours and be extra careful around the extraction site.
A member of our friendly reception team will provide you with a follow up call 24-48 hours after your procedure to see if there are any issues and to ensure everything is going well.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Ballarat
Our experienced team at Dana Street Dental are here to offer you the very best of dental care. Our modern facilities are equipped with the most up to date technologies which help us provide you with the most comfortable dental experience possible.
We take the time to get to know you and listen to your concerns. As well as having extensive wisdom teeth removal experience, our dental team is gentle, kind and compassionate. For nervous patients or complex cases, we also have sedation options available, including twilight dentistry.
A Friendly and Professional Dental Team Headed by Local Dentists
Our Dana Street Dental team aims to make your experience at the dentist an inspiring one, every time. With our gentle manner and years of experience, our Ballarat dental team strive to provide you and your family with the very best of dental care.
