Widsom Teeth Woollahra | Eastern Suburbs Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 18 and 25. In many cases, there is insufficient space in the jaw to accommodate them properly, leading to potential complications such as infection, pain, and damage to adjacent teeth.

At your consultation, we will provide:

A clear explanation of whether wisdom tooth removal is recommended in your case
A step-by-step overview of the procedure
A discussion of potential risks and benefits to support your informed decision-making

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

When wisdom teeth become impacted or partially impacted (trapped beneath the gums or against other teeth), complications may include:

Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria, leading to pain, swelling, and more serious infections affecting surrounding tissues.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Angled or overcrowded wisdom teeth can contribute to decay, gum problems, and structural weakening of neighbouring teeth.
Cysts or Other Growths: In rare cases, fluid-filled cysts may form around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially damaging the surrounding bone and teeth.

If your wisdom teeth are already causing issues or are likely to in the future, removal may be recommended to protect your oral health.

What to Expect from Wisdom Teeth Removal

While wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure, certain risks should be considered:

Nerve involvement: Rarely, sensory nerves that supply the lip, chin, or tongue may be affected, leading to temporary or permanent numbness.
Jaw soreness: Mild discomfort when opening and closing the mouth is common but typically resolves within 10 days.
Bleeding or infection: Minimal bleeding is normal, and the infection risk is low.
Swelling and pain: These symptoms generally subside within one-week post-surgery.

Your Treatment Options

Wisdom teeth removal can be performed:

Under local anaesthesia in our practice – Suitable for straightforward cases.
Under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting – Recommended for more complex cases or for patients who prefer to be asleep during the procedure.

Our team will provide personalised guidance to help determine the best course of action for your situation. The final decision is always yours, and we are here to support you throughout the process.