Impacted Wisdom Teeth (II)

C. Treatment

1. If wisdom tooth is completely buried inside the jawbone, nothing needs to be done given that there is no symptom. You would keep it under observation at regular dental check-up in case of any disease changes.

2. If Consider removal of impacted wisdom tooth

• Wisdom tooth problems
• Frequent inflammation of gingivae covering the wisdom tooth causing recurrent Pericoronitis
• Suffered from severe Pericoronitis
• Severe caries, periodontal disease, pulpitis or periapical infections of wisdom tooth
• Impacted wisdom tooth causing root resorption of adjacent teeth
• Cyst around the wisdom tooth can damage the structure of jawbone. If there is a cyst formation, the cyst together with the impacted wisdom tooth must be extracted

• Prior to the following treatments
• Extraction of mal-positioned wisdom tooth prior to orthodontic treatment
• Radiotherapy
• Jawbone reconstruction surgery

The decision to remove an impacted wisdom tooth or not depends on the clinical situation, the diagnosis of dentist and the preference of patient.

3. To avoid bleeding of the wound after the surgical extraction of the wisdom tooth, you should pay attention to the following：

• On the day of surgery
• Do not disturb the wound, rinse and brush the teeth
• Take soft diet for a few days and use the teeth of the opposite side of the jaw for chewing
• Do not perform heavy work or strenuous exercise
• Do not smoke or drink alcoholic beverages

On the day following the surgery, resume gentle toothbrushing and normal chew.

4. Reduce discomfort after surgical extraction of wisdom tooth

• Wound pain, facial swelling and difficulty on mouth opening are common after surgery
• On the day of surgery, apply ice pack to minimize facial swelling to the affected side of your face.
• On the day 2, apply a warm towel to the swollen area to reduce discomfort
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent wound infection
• On day 3 or 4, take soft diet. If there is pain from these wound ,take painkiller as prescribed by the dentist

Normally, any discomfort will slowly subside in a week after surgery. Meanwhile, consult your dentist if you have any queries.

Reference information: www.bjdental.com

It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your Dentist for diagnosis and treatment.