When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can cause discomfort, swelling and other oral health concerns. While not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed, some may become impacted, difficult to clean or contribute to problems affecting neighbouring teeth and gums.
At Dentists of Ivanhoe, we provide comprehensive assessments and personalised wisdom teeth removal treatment based on your individual needs. Whether you’re experiencing pain, have been referred for an assessment, or your wisdom teeth have been identified during a routine examination, we’ll discuss your treatment options and help you understand what to expect throughout the process.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are usually the last adult teeth to develop, often emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have enough space for their wisdom teeth to erupt normally, others may experience problems if there isn’t sufficient room in the jaw.
Wisdom teeth that remain trapped beneath the gums (impacted), only partially erupt, or grow at an angle may increase the risk of pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease and damage to neighbouring teeth. Regular dental examinations and X-rays can help determine whether your wisdom teeth are developing normally or whether wisdom teeth removal may be recommended.
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars located at the back of your mouth. Most people develop four wisdom teeth, although some may have fewer or none at all.
Unlike other adult teeth, wisdom teeth often emerge after the jaw has finished developing. If there isn’t enough space available, they may remain impacted, partially erupt through the gums or grow in a direction that places pressure on surrounding teeth.
Not every wisdom tooth requires removal. Your dentist will recommend treatments based on factors such as their position, your symptoms, your oral health and the likelihood of future complications.
While not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed, there are situations where wisdom teeth removal in Ivanhoe may be recommended to help protect your oral health.
Removal may be considered when:
A wisdom tooth is impacted beneath the gums
There is repeated infection around a partially erupted tooth
Tooth decay affects the wisdom tooth or neighbouring tooth
Gum disease develops around the wisdom tooth
The tooth is causing pain or swelling
There is damage to adjacent teeth
A cyst or other pathology is identified during examination
Orthodontic or restorative treatment requires additional space
Following a clinical examination and dental imaging, your dentist will discuss whether treatment is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Disclaimer
This information is a general guide and isn’t a substitute for personalised dental advice. Your dentist will assess your wisdom teeth and discuss the most suitable treatment for you. Treatment and costs can vary depending on your individual needs.
Signs and symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth
An infected or impacted wisdom tooth can cause a range of symptoms, although the severity varies from person to person.
Common signs include:
Pain at the back of the mouth
Swollen, tender or bleeding gums
Jaw pain or stiffness
Swelling of the cheek
Difficulty opening your mouth
Pain while chewing
Persistent bad breath
An unpleasant taste in the mouth
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever or feeling unwell in some cases
These symptoms may also be associated with other dental conditions. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain or swelling, it’s important to arrange a dental assessment to identify the underlying cause.
What happens during the wisdom teeth removal procedure?
Every wisdom teeth removal procedure in Ivanhoe is tailored to the position of your wisdom teeth, your symptoms and your individual treatment needs. Before proceeding, your dentist will explain each stage of the procedure so you know what to expect.
Consultation and examination
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Your appointment begins with a comprehensive examination, including digital X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging where appropriate. This allows your dentist to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and discuss your treatment options.
Anaesthetic
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Wisdom teeth extraction is commonly performed using local anaesthetic to numb the treatment area. Depending on the complexity of the procedure and your circumstances, sedation options may also be discussed where appropriate.
Tooth removal
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If the tooth has fully erupted, it may be removed using a standard extraction technique. For impacted wisdom teeth, a small opening may be made in the gum and, if necessary, the tooth may be divided into smaller sections before being carefully removed.
Closing the area
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Where required, dissolvable stitches may be placed, and gauze is used to help control bleeding.
Aftercare Following Wisdom Teeth Surgery or Extraction in Ivanhoe
Looking after the extraction site can help support normal healing following wisdom teeth surgery.
Managing discomfort
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Some swelling, bruising and tenderness are common during the first few days. Applying a cold pack and taking medication as recommended by your dentist may help manage discomfort.
Eating after surgery
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Soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed vegetables, soup, smoothies and scrambled eggs are generally recommended during the initial recovery period. You can gradually return to your normal diet as healing progresses.
Caring for the extraction site
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Continue maintaining good oral hygiene while avoiding direct brushing over the extraction site until advised. Your dentist will explain when you can begin gentle saltwater rinses and provide instructions specific to your treatment.
Healing timeline
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Many patients return to their usual daily activities within several days, although complete healing of the extraction site takes longer. Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing.
If you experience increasing pain, prolonged bleeding, significant swelling or signs of infection, contact your dentist promptly.
Most people experience gradual improvement over the first week after surgery.
Your recovery may depend on:
The position of the wisdom tooth
Whether the tooth was impacted
The complexity of the extraction
Your general health
How closely aftercare instructions are followed
Your dentist will explain what you can expect throughout your recovery and arrange a review appointment if required.
What are the potential risks of wisdom teeth removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a commonly performed dental procedure, but like any surgical treatment, it carries potential risks that should be considered before proceeding.
Possible risks include bleeding, swelling, bruising, temporary discomfort, infection and delayed healing. In some cases, patients may experience dry socket, where the blood clot protecting the extraction site becomes dislodged before healing is complete. Depending on the position of the tooth, there may also be a small risk of temporary or, less commonly, permanent changes in sensation affecting the lip, chin or tongue due to the proximity of nearby nerves.
During your consultation, your dentist will assess your individual circumstances, discuss the potential risks and benefits of treatment, and answer any questions before you decide whether wisdom teeth removal is appropriate for you.
How much does wisdom teeth removal in Ivanhoe cost?
The cost of wisdom teeth extraction varies depending on the position of the tooth, whether it is impacted, the complexity of the procedure and whether sedation is required.
Following your examination and imaging, you'll receive a personalised treatment plan outlining the recommended treatment and associated fees before any procedure is undertaken.
Your care at Dentists of Ivanhoe
Wisdom teeth don't always need to be removed, which is why every treatment begins with a thorough assessment rather than a decision to extract. We'll examine your teeth, review your imaging, discuss your symptoms and explain whether removal is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
At Dentists of Ivanhoe, we take the time to understand your concerns, explain your treatment options and provide personalised care from your initial consultation through to your recovery. Using modern diagnostic imaging and a patient-centred approach, we aim to make your experience as comfortable and informed as possible.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions to get to know us better.
No. Wisdom teeth are only removed when they are causing problems or are likely to affect your oral health in the future. Many wisdom teeth remain healthy and do not require treatment.
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the treatment area during the procedure, so you should not feel pain while the tooth is being removed. Some discomfort during recovery is expected and can usually be managed with appropriate aftercare.
The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth being removed and their position. Your dentist will provide a more accurate estimate during your consultation.
Soft foods are generally recommended during the first few days after surgery. Your dentist will advise when you can gradually return to your usual diet.
Many people return to work or study within a few days, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the nature of their daily activities. Your dentist can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances.
If you experience increasing pain, persistent bleeding, worsening swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever or any other concerns following your wisdom teeth extraction, contact your dentist promptly for advice.
DOI
ACHIEVE A HEALTHY AND STRAIGHTER SMILE
To arrange a consultation with our dentists in Ivanhoe, or for any enquiries, please call our clinic today.
With over 25 years of experience in dealing with emergency dental situations, we have the experience and technology to get you back to your schedule, sooner. We service Ivanhoe and the surrounding suburbs, which includes but are not limited to Ivanhoe East, Northcote, and Preston.
To book an emergency dentist, please contact us now on (03) 9499 9033 or visit us at our clinic in Ivanhoe from Monday – Saturday.
Haven’t saved for an emergency dentist appointment? We also offer payment plans for your convenience.
