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Wisdom Teeth Removal: Procedure, Benefits, and Aftercare
What is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal, or wisdom teeth extraction, is a routine procedure to remove one or more third molars. These molars, appearing between ages 17-25, may cause dental issues if insufficient space prevents them from properly erupting.
When should you remove wisdom teeth?
Oral surgeons and dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth due to several complications:
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Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth are trapped beneath the gums, they can grow at angles that cause pain and infections.
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Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, leading to misalignment.
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Tooth Decay & Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are challenging to clean, often developing cavities and causing decay.
Types of Wisdom Teeth Impaction
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Mesial Impaction: This is the most common form of wisdom tooth impaction. It occurs when the tooth is angled forward, pointing toward the front of your mouth.
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Distal Impaction: The rarest type, distal impaction, happens when the wisdom tooth tilts backward, facing the rear of your mouth.
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Vertical Impaction: In a vertical impaction, the wisdom tooth is correctly positioned for eruption but remains trapped beneath the gums, unable to fully emerge.
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Horizontal Impaction: A horizontally impacted wisdom tooth lies completely on its side, deeply embedded in the gums. This type of impaction often causes discomfort as the tooth presses against neighboring teeth, creating additional pressure.
Early removal, often in the late teens or early twenties, has several benefits:
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Lower Risk of Complications: Younger patients experience fewer complications and faster recovery.
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Prevention of Future Issues: Early extraction reduces the likelihood of infections or misalignment.
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Improved Oral Hygiene: Without wisdom teeth, oral care becomes more manageable.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
This procedure is performed by an oral surgeon under local, sedation, or general anesthesia. Here's a step-by-step overview:​
ANESTHESIA
Numbing the area to reduce discomfort.
tooth
EXTRACTION
The surgeon may need to remove bone to access and extract the tooth.
Stitches & Gauze
Stitches close the wound, while gauze controls bleeding.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare
Effective aftercare is essential for recovery. Key tips include:
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Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers help ease discomfort.
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Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
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Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods such as yogurt and applesauce.
Avoid Straws & Smoking: These can disrupt the blood clot, increasing dry socket risk.
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Are implant-supported dentures safe?Yes, Implant-supported dentures are a safe and effective option for achieving long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing results. At EZ Dental Care, we follow set standards of care for every procedure, providing you with reassurance as you work on your smile.
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What is healing with implant-supported dentures like?After the insertion of dental implant posts into the jaw, patients enter a phase called osseointegration, where the bone fuses with the implants. This process mimics the function of natural tooth roots. Generally, after three to six months, patients are ready to receive permanent dentures affixed to the implants.
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How long do implant dentures last?With proper care, regular dentures typically last five to seven years before needing repair or replacement. In contrast, implant-supported dentures can last ten years or longer, with some patients enjoying them for a lifetime.
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Are implant dentures your ideal option?To determine your eligibility for implant-supported dentures, it’s ideal to consult with our dental professionals. We are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through your options.
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Is getting implant-supported dentures painful?Our patients generally report minimal discomfort after the procedure. While there may be some tenderness on the day of surgery, others feel fine the following day and can resume normal activities without needing pain relief.
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Is it possible to sleep while wearing implant dentures?You can sleep with your implant dentures, but it’s crucial to clean them regularly. Rinsing and brushing the attached plate and artificial teeth helps prevent gum disease and implant failure.
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Do implant dentures offer advantages over traditional dentures?Yes, implant-supported dentures provide an ideal quality of life compared to traditional dentures. They effectively restore the function and appearance of natural teeth, though some may still prefer conventional options for various reasons.
Thinking About Wisdom Tooth Removal? Don’t Wait Until the Pain Hits—EZ Dental Care Clinic is Here to Help!
If you’re ready to get ahead of potential wisdom tooth pain, EZ Dental Care Clinic offers expert wisdom tooth removal to keep you comfortable and worry-free. Contact us to book your appointment at our convenient Bedok North or Geylang Bahru locations and step into a future without wisdom tooth trouble!
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