advertorial
Wisdom Teeth
What are wisdom teeth? Wisdom Teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties.
So why would I need my wisdom teeth removed? Wisdom teeth can sometimes cause pain, swelling and infection. This tends to occur when the wisdom tooth is impacted.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth? Impacted means the wisdom teeth are partially entrapped within the soft tissue or the jaw bone or against the teeth in front- the second molars. This is usually because there is not enough space for the wisdom teeth. Sometimes an impacted wisdom tooth can lead to decay of the second molar tooth.
Would I need to be asleep (general anaesthetic) when I have a wisdom tooth removed? Wisdom teeth can be removed under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic. The type of anaesthetic depends on several factors and usually it is the patient’s preference- some people would prefer a general anaesthetic when their wisdom teeth are removed whilst others would want a local anaesthetic. Sedation can also be another option used in conjunction with a local anaesthetic.
What can I expect after my wisdom teeth have been removed? There will be a degree of discomfort and your surgeon will prescribe painkillers. In some cases antibiotics are also prescribed. In addition to the discomfort there can be some swelling of the face and jaw stiffness. Sometimes it is necessary to place dissolving stitches in the gum following the surgery. It is also advisable to eat a soft diet for 3 – 4 days following the surgery.
What complications can occur following wisdom tooth removal? The roots of the lower wisdom teeth are close to two nerves. These nerves supply feeling to the tongue and lower lip. Rarely these nerves can be bumped or bruised following wisdom tooth surgery resulting in altered sensation in the lower lip and / or tongue. However this complication is very rare.
Will I need any time off work following this type of surgery?
Most people who have their wisdom teeth removed need 2 – 3 days to recover.
How can I arrange a wisdom tooth consultation? If you are having problems with your wisdom teeth it is best to get your dentist to refer you.
Or you can make an appointment by contacting the helpline at the Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital on: 01892 552932 or email
tun.enq@nuffieldhealth.com
Removal
Darryl Coombes, consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon at the Nuffield Health, Tunbridge Wells Hospital, answers some questions about Wisdom teeth.
NUFFIELD HEALTH TUNBRIDGE WELLS HOSPITAL
Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4UL T: 01892 552 932
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