Third Molar Extraction Services at Wantirna Dentists
Often called our “third molars”, wisdom teeth earned their name by appearing during young adulthood. While our predecessors relied on these extra grinders for tough foods, modern jaws frequently lack space, leading to potential complications. At Wantirna Dentists, we help you navigate these late-emerging teeth with expert care tailored to your needs.
Why do wisdom teeth cause issues nowadays?
Evolved diets and smaller jaw structures mean these final molars often become trapped (impacted) or grow sideways. This can spark:
- Gum infections from trapped food
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Cysts or rare jawbone changes
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
What symptoms suggest problematic wisdom teeth?
Watch for:
- Swollen gums or jaw tenderness
- Bad breath that won’t budge
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
- Headaches or facial swelling
- Fever (indicating infection)
How does Wantirna Dentists assess my situation?
We start with 3D scans to map your teeth’s position and roots. Depending on your scan results and symptoms, we might recommend:
- Monitoring with regular check-ups
- Immediate removal if risks are high
- Antibiotics to clear infections first
Tip: Early assessment (teens to mid-20s) often allows simpler treatment.
What happens during removal?
For straightforward cases:
- Numb the area with local anaesthetic
- Gently access the tooth through a small gum opening
- Remove in sections if needed
- Use dissolvable stitches if required
For complex cases or anxious patients, we offer sedation or hospital referrals.
How long is recovery?
Most patients need 2-7 days off work. Post-op care includes:
- Icing cheeks (try frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel!)
- Eating soft foods like mash or scrambled eggs
- Avoiding straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing
- Using prescribed pain relief as needed
Swelling peaks around day 3—don’t panic!
Are there risks?
Temporary numbness (lips/tongue) or jaw stiffness are possible but rare. We minimise risks through detailed scans and gentle techniques.
Can I smoke/vape after surgery?
Avoid all smoking/vaping for 72+ hours, they dramatically increase infection risks and slow healing.
Looking for expert dentists in Wantirna?
From regular dental maintenance to urgent treatments, our expert team is here to provide personalised, high-quality care in a welcoming environment. Contact us today to arrange your appointment and enjoy dental visits designed around your comfort and health.
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