Signs Your Wisdom Teeth May Need Attention
- Pain or tenderness at the back of the jaw
- Swelling or redness around the gum
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- A bad taste or odour near the back teeth
- Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
For a closer look at what these symptoms mean, read our guide to the signs of impacted wisdom teeth.
Why Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted
Impaction happens when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom tooth to come through properly. This can cause it to grow at an angle, become partially covered by gum tissue, or press against neighbouring teeth. Not every impacted wisdom tooth causes symptoms, which is why a dental check-up (including an x-ray where needed) is the best way to know whether yours needs attention.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Process
If removal is recommended, your dentist will talk you through the procedure and what to expect during recovery. Most wisdom tooth removals are completed as a day procedure, and your dentist will explain whether local anaesthetic or a sedation option is most suitable for your situation before you go ahead.
Comfort and Sedation Options
We offer a range of comfort options to help make treatment more manageable, including local anaesthetic and sedation dentistry for patients who feel anxious or are having more complex teeth removed. Your dentist will discuss which option is right for you at your consultation.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Some swelling, mild discomfort, and bruising are normal in the days following removal, and usually settle within a week. We’ll give you clear aftercare instructions covering diet, oral hygiene, and pain management, and let you know what to watch for if anything doesn’t seem to be healing as expected.