Management of Wisdom Teeth Hervey Bay
If wisdom teeth are causing trouble, Dr Nick White can assess them and, if necessary, make appropriate arrangements for their removal.
Adults have three sets of molars: the third molars are better known as “wisdom teeth”. These are the last teeth to develop in the jaw and usually the last teeth to come into the mouth. They have a reputation for causing trouble.
Not everyone is born with wisdom teeth. And if they’re present, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be troublesome.
It’s a good idea for our patients to know whether their third molars are present and likely to cause future problems. So our dentist, Dr Nick White, will start monitoring for signs of wisdom teeth from around adolescence.
When wisdom teeth are known to be present, Dr Nick will review them at every checkup appointment.
If you come into White Dental Co. with concerns about your wisdom teeth, Dr Nick will
- ask about your health history, including past and current medical conditions and medications
- ask you to describe your concerns about your wisdom teeth
- examine your teeth and mouth, with a focus on your wisdom teeth.
Since part or all of each wisdom tooth will be under the gums, Dr Nick will recommend a dental x-ray called an orthopantomogram (OPG). This large x-ray shows the entire jaw and is ideal for assessing the number, position, shape, size, and number of roots of wisdom teeth.
You don’t need a referral for this x-ray: we can take it in our rooms on the same day as your appointment.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
There are many reasons to remove third molars. Often there isn’t enough room for the teeth to come through into a functional position.
Wisdom teeth may need to be extracted because they
- become impacted (trapped beneath the gums by bone or nearby teeth)
- emerge into a tilted or misaligned position
- become decayed or cause decay to develop in the adjacent teeth
- cause gum disease in the adjacent teeth
- become inflamed (“pericoronitis”)
- develop an infection or abscess
- develop cysts or tumours
- cause ongoing discomfort or pain
- are difficult to keep clean
- need to be removed as part of an orthodontic treatment plan.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Each person’s situation is unique. Third molars may emerge into the mouth quite well and become functional teeth in the bite.
Even so, the overlying gums may become irritated as the teeth emerge. Dr Nick can provide treatments to alleviate pain or discomfort if this occurs.
Can wisdom teeth be extracted in the dental chair?
Yes, it’s possible to extract wisdom teeth in our rooms under a local anaesthetic with just the tooth anaesthetised. Dr Nick will advise if this is an appropriate option.
Can I go to the hospital instead?
Yes, Dr Nick is credentialed to admit patients to nearby St Stephens Hospital in Hervey Bay. He can therefore offer wisdom tooth removal in the hospital under a general anaesthetic (where the patient is asleep).
Complex cases are referred to a specialist oral surgeon.
Are there risks associated with the removal of wisdom teeth?
Yes, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Dr Nick will explain the risks to each patient well before treatment and make every effort to minimise risks.
We can help you enjoy excellent oral health
If you are concerned about the health of your wisdom teeth, reach out to make an appointment for an assessment with Dr Nick White.
Making an appointment at White Dental Co. is easy!
Call us (07) 4313 1777 during business hours or book online.
Or drop by to make a time at Suite 10 Madsen Medical, 17 Hershel Court, Hervey Bay 4655
