Your Guide to Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Singapore
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to appear in your mouth, typically between the ages of 17 and 24. These teeth are located at the back of your upper and lower jaw. Because of limited space, wisdom tooth pain can occur when these teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may encounter impaction, infection, or overcrowding, often leading to the need for wisdom tooth extraction.
What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure to remove one or more wisdom teeth. Extraction may be considered when a tooth is impacted, causes symptoms or affects nearby teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may be associated with pain, inflammation, infection or damage to adjacent teeth.
EZ Dental Care has clinics in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru. Patients can discuss wisdom tooth concerns and available treatment options with a dentist following a dental assessment.
Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Impacted wisdom teeth may press against nearby teeth or contribute to pain, inflammation and infection. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can also create areas where food and bacteria accumulate, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and infection. In some cases, cysts may develop around an impacted tooth.
The need for wisdom tooth extraction depends on the tooth's position, root development, symptoms and the individual's dental condition. A dentist can assess the wisdom teeth and discuss whether removal or monitoring is appropriate.
If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth, arrange a dental assessment to discuss the available options and potential risks.
Before Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Before wisdom tooth extraction at EZ Dental Care, the dentist reviews the patient's medical history and examines the teeth and surrounding tissues. Dental X-rays may be taken to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and their relationship to nearby structures.
At the Bedok North and Geylang Bahru clinics, the dentist will explain the proposed procedure, discuss potential risks and answer questions about treatment and recovery. The treatment plan depends on the patient's dental condition and assessment findings.
Can I Eat or Drink Before the Procedure?
Before your wisdom tooth extraction, the eating and drinking instructions depend on the type of anaesthesia. If you're receiving local anaesthesia, which is common for wisdom tooth extractions, you can have a light meal up to one hour before the procedure. However, if you're undergoing general anaesthesia, you will need to fast for 6-12 hours to minimize risks.
During Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Most wisdom tooth extractions are done under local anaesthesia, allowing you to remain awake while the area around the tooth is numbed. In more complicated cases, such as when multiple teeth need to be removed, an incision may be required in the gum tissue, and stitches might be necessary. If the extraction is more complex, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon.
How Long Does the Extraction Take?
The duration of wisdom tooth extraction varies depending on the tooth's position and the complexity of the procedure. Some extractions take around 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may take longer. The dentist can provide an estimated duration based on the dental examination and X-ray findings.
Will I Need Local or General Anesthesia?
Wisdom tooth extraction may be performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. The type of anaesthesia used depends on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the number of teeth being removed and the patient's medical history. For some cases, sedation or general anaesthesia may be considered. The dentist can explain the available options and whether referral to a specialist is necessary.
After Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After your wisdom tooth extraction, it's normal to experience mild discomfort, including:
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Drowsiness: If you were sedated, avoid driving and arrange for assistance at home for the first 1-2 days.
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Pain: Your dentist will prescribe pain relief medications to help manage discomfort. Swelling and bruising may occur and typically subside within 4-5 days.
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Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected after surgery but should lessen within a few hours.
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Swelling: Applying ice to your jaw immediately after surgery can help reduce swelling, especially in the first 24 hours.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
While complications from wisdom tooth extraction are rare, they can include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, or excessive bleeding.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction at EZ Dental Care
EZ Dental Care has dental clinics in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru. Wisdom tooth extraction involves either a surgical or non-surgical procedure, depending on the tooth's position, condition and the findings of a dental assessment.
The services and procedures include:
Surgical Removal of Wisdom Teeth
Surgical extraction is used when a wisdom tooth is impacted or cannot be removed using a non-surgical technique. The dentist assesses the tooth and explains the proposed procedure and potential risks.
Non-Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Non-surgical extraction is used when a tooth can be removed without a surgical procedure. The approach depends on the tooth's position and condition.
Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are used to assess the position of the wisdom teeth and their relationship to nearby teeth and structures.
Follow-Up Reviews and Stitch Removal
Follow-up appointments allow the dentist to review healing after extraction. Stitches are removed when necessary, depending on the type of stitches used and the dentist's instructions.
Prescription Medication
Medication is prescribed according to the patient's condition and treatment requirements. This includes pain relief medication or antibiotics when clinically indicated.
Fees and MediSave
Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
MediSave can be used for eligible surgical dental procedures, subject to the applicable claim limits and requirements. Eligibility depends on the patient's status as a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident and the procedure performed. Patients can check the applicable claim details with the clinic.
Non-Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The fee for non-surgical wisdom tooth extraction is $200. X-rays and medication are charged separately, where applicable. Patients should confirm the total fees for their treatment before proceeding.
Enquiries About Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Patients experiencing wisdom tooth pain or who have concerns about their wisdom teeth can contact EZ Dental Care to enquire about an appointment at the Bedok North or Geylang Bahru clinic. A dentist can assess the condition and discuss suitable treatment options.
For enquiries, visit the EZ Dental Care contact page.
