Wisdom Tooth Removal

At times, wisdom teeth can cause discomfort due to insufficient space for them to erupt completely in the mouth.

Being the very last tooth in your jaw, it can also be difficult to clean and thus be more prone to gum infections or tooth decay. Thus, they need to undergo dental wisdom tooth extraction by a reliable dentist in Singapore.

In certain circumstances, a normal extraction may not be possible for a wisdom tooth due to its position, it being partially out of your gums; or it being inclined horizontally or at an angle.

As such, surgery may be required to remove it.

At Ashford, our clinical expertise allows us to treat wisdom teeth:

  • quickly
  • effectively
  • safely
  • comfortably and pain free for all our patients

Procedures are always carried out with experienced clinical staff to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for all our patients.

Based in Singapore, our trained dental experts and doctors will always advise you firstly if your wisdom tooth needs to undergo extraction (not all of them need removal), and if so, from our several years of clinical experience, we are able to tell you confidently & accurately.

  • what the process is like
  • how long it will take
  • how quickly you will heal and be ready to enjoy your favourite foods
What Are Wisdom Teeth?

The wisdom tooth is actually your third molar. From an evolutionary perspective, human beings traditionally had 3 molars (or back grinding teeth) in order to chew abrasive and rough types of food historically.

However, over time, as our diets changed, our jaw sizes evolved to become slightly smaller. This created an issue as there would not be sufficient space in the jaw for the third molar to erupt completely. This is the main reason why we can have problems with our wisdom teeth and require surgery in Singapore.

Do We All Have Wisdom Teeth?

No, we do not. The third molar is actually the most commonly missing tooth in our mouths. It does not reflect our wisdom!

Why Do We Have Pain From Our Wisdom Teeth?

Most of the time pain and discomfort arises because there is insufficient space for the wisdom tooth in your jaw. This creates a situation where the wisdom tooth is partially erupted. This essentially means the tooth is partially covered by your gum and partially exposed.

When this happens, bacteria in your mouth will coalesce beneath the gum flap which partially covers the wisdom tooth. Being a very hard place to reach and clean, the bacteria tend to proliferate and result in a localised infection around the wisdom tooth.

There are plenty of other reasons why a wisdom tooth may cause pain and require surgery in Singapore too. These include:

  • Decay in the wisdom tooth
  • Fracture of the wisdom tooth
  • Cysts forming around the wisdom tooth
  • The wisdom tooth impacting and damaging the tooth in front of it
What Are The Typical Presentations Of Wisdom Teeth?

Upright
Wisdom teeth can typically be upright and erupt straight just like any of your other teeth. In this situation they usually do not cause us problems.

Impacted forward
This means the wisdom tooth is angled towards the tooth in front of it. In this situation the great concern is that damage can be done to the tooth in front of the wisdom tooth. This may result in both the wisdom tooth and the tooth in front needing removal from a dentist in Singapore.

A forward impacted wisdom tooth can also create a pressure vector which is passed on to other teeth in front of it resulting in crowding.

Impacted backward
This means the wisdom tooth is angled backwards, towards the angle of your jaw bone. In this situation it is very common to get a localised infection in the gums behind the wisdom tooth which lead to pain and swelling.

Not all wisdom teeth require removal. But you should make an appointment with your dentist in Singapore to remove your wisdom tooth if:

  • If they get infected
  • If a cyst forms around one
  • If the wisdom tooth gets decayed
  • If the wisdom teeth causes damage to an adjacent tooth
  • If the wisdom tooth is fractured or broken
  • If the gums around the wisdom tooth are getting infected or inflamed

Wisdom Tooth Removal Process

Recovery & Follow Up

After undergoing wisdom tooth surgery, the recovery phase is critical to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Our team at Ashford Dental will be with you every step of the way, offering post-surgery follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Is It Painful After?

In most cases the numbness continues for about 2 hours after you leave our facility. After about 2 hours, you will feel a bit of tenderness around the wisdom tooth area. You can sometimes experience a bit of swelling too. However, this generally will last for about a day or two before you start to feel much better.

How Long Will It Take To Heal?

Most people are actually much better after a day or two. But as with any medical procedure, this will depend on the difficulty of the removal and your body’s natural healing abilities. Our doctors will always advise you of your specific healing time.

What Are The Do's And Don'ts After The Removal?

Do’s

  • Take medication as instructed by our doctors
  • Stick to soft food for about one or two days after
  • Have cold foods or room temperature foods to relieve inflammation
  • Use ice packs on and off (20 minutes at a time) to relieve inflammation
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Stay hydrated by drinking fluids like water or juices
  • Ensure you bite firmly on the cotton gauze given to you when you leave.
  • This kick starts the healing and ensures the wound clots well

Don’ts

  • Smoke for at least 24 hours after the surgery. Smoking will interfere with healing and you can end up with delayed healing of the wound.
  • Have hot foods and drinks. This will irritate the gums and delay the healing.
  • Have spicy foods. This irritates the gums and delays the healing
  • Spit or rinse your mouth the day of the surgery. This will break up the forming blood clot and delay the healing. If you have saliva or blood in your mouth, try to swallow it or gently spit out instead of rinsing.
Are there any dietary restrictions or recommendations to follow after wisdom tooth surgery?

Following wisdom tooth surgery, it is essential to adopt a soft-food diet to aid in the healing process and prevent any disruption to the surgical site. Stick to nourishing yet easily chewable foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups. Avoid hot and spicy foods and crunchy or hard-to-chew items that might irritate the surgical site. It’s best to steer clear of straws, as the suction can dislodge blood clots and hinder healing. We recommend staying hydrated and following our comprehensive post-surgery dietary guidelines for a swift and hassle-free recovery.

How should I care for the surgical site and promote healing after wisdom tooth surgery?

Proper surgical site care is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. Rinse your mouth gently with warm saltwater solution after meals to keep the area clean. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting during the initial days, as this may dislodge blood clots and slow healing. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Ensure to follow any prescribed pain medications and antibiotics diligently. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Ashford Dental for guidance and reassurance.

How long after wisdom tooth surgery can I resume normal eating and oral hygiene practices?

The timeline for resuming normal eating and oral hygiene practices after wisdom tooth surgery may vary from person to person. Typically, it is safe to start reintroducing soft solid foods back into your diet after a few days. However, only chew near the surgical site once you feel comfortable doing so. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during the recovery period is vital, but be gentle when brushing around the surgical area. Avoid using toothpaste with strong flavours or chemicals that might irritate the site. Our Ashford Dental team will provide personalised instructions based on your recovery progress to ensure a successful healing journey.

Why Choose Ashford Dental Singapore For Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Surgical removal of wisdom teeth is a procedure which requires a great deal of finesse, experience, surgical prowess and anatomical knowledge.

This is because lower wisdom teeth are surrounded by 2 sensory nerves. On the outside of it runs the Inferior Alveolar Nerve. This nerve gives sensation to the lower teeth on that side, the cheek, the chin and the lip.

Running on the inside of the wisdom tooth is the lingual nerve. This gives sensation to the inside part of the tongue and some taste sensation to the tongue as well.

When removing the wisdom tooth, the surgeon must be very specific and deliberate in their technique in order to avoid these nerves. Damaging the nerves can result in partial or permanent loss of sensation to the affected area.

Removal of upper wisdom teeth is also a procedure that requires experience and finesse. The upper wisdom tooth is usually very close to the maxillary sinus. The surgeon must be very careful to avoid breakages as this can result in root tips being pushed into the sinus.

Based in Singapore, our dentists at Ashford Dental Centre have undergone training specific to wisdom tooth extraction and surgical procedures, and so will find the best way to deal with your particular dental situation. We also have more than a decade of clinical experience in performing difficult surgical wisdom teeth removals. In addition to this, all our dentists have calming and gentle demeanours to put you at ease and assure you of a smooth and efficient experience. Our recommended dentist has had years of experience in wisdom tooth extraction, having served numerous patients in Singapore. As such, our team is confident of giving you a safe and comfortable experience.

Apart from housing the experienced surgeons, all our auxiliary staff in our clinics in Singapore have also undergone specific training for wisdom tooth extraction and surgical removals. They know exactly what to do in any given situation. Their surgical assistance makes our surgeons’ work much easier and makes your experience far more relaxing.

Possible Risks

Wisdom tooth surgery, or wisdom tooth extraction or removal, is a common dental procedure to address various dental issues. While it is generally considered safe and routine, like any medical procedure, potential risks are involved. Patients in Singapore must be aware of these risks to make informed decisions about their oral health. Here, we discuss some of the possible risks associated with wisdom tooth surgery:

  1. Infection: Infection is among the most common risks following wisdom tooth surgery. The surgical site is susceptible to bacterial colonisation, leading to inflammation and infection. While dentists prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, some patients may still experience localised or systemic infections.
  2. Dry Socket: Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is another risk associated with wisdom tooth surgery, which happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket after the tooth extraction is dislodged or dissolves prematurely. This exposes the underlying bone and nerves, leading to severe pain and delayed healing. Smokers and individuals with a history of previous dry sockets are at a higher risk, and it is essential to avoid smoking and follow post-surgery guidelines to prevent this complication.
  3. Nerve Damage: The position of wisdom teeth can vary; in some cases, they may be located near essential nerves in the jaw. There is a slight risk of damaging these nerves, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the lips, tongue, or chin. Dentists carefully assess the proximity of nerves using X-rays to minimise this risk.
  4. Sinus Complications: There is a risk of sinus complications for upper wisdom tooth extraction. The roots of upper wisdom teeth can be close to the sinus cavities. Communication between the mouth and the sinus can be created during the extraction. This can lead to sinus infections; in some cases, additional surgical procedures may be required to address the issue.
  5. Excessive Bleeding: Bleeding is normal after tooth extraction, including wisdom tooth surgery. However, some patients may experience excessive bleeding that does not subside with the usual post-surgery care. Conditions such as bleeding disorders or improper clotting can increase the risk of this complication. Patients with such medical conditions should inform their dentist beforehand to receive appropriate guidance.
  6. Jaw Stiffness and Swelling: Patients may experience temporary jaw stiffness and swelling around the surgical site post-surgery. While these symptoms are expected during the initial recovery period, prolonged or severe swelling may indicate an underlying issue, such as infection or dry socket. Applying ice packs and following the prescribed medication and care routine can help alleviate these symptoms.
  7. Anaesthesia Complications: Using local or general anaesthesia during wisdom tooth surgery poses certain risks, such as allergic reactions, adverse drug interactions, or complications related to anaesthesia administration. Dentists carefully review the patient’s medical history and allergies to choose the appropriate anaesthesia and minimise these risks.
  8. Delayed Healing: Some patients may experience delayed healing after wisdom tooth surgery, especially if they have underlying medical conditions or do not follow post-surgery care instructions. Delayed healing can prolong discomfort and increase the risk of infection. Patients must communicate with their dentist if they notice any signs of delayed healing.

Wisdom tooth surgery is generally safe and well-tolerated by most patients. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. Patients should maintain open communication with their dentist, disclose their medical history, and follow post-surgery care instructions diligently to minimise the risks and ensure a smooth recovery process. Patients can make the best decisions for their oral health and overall well-being by being well-informed and proactive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Wisdom Tooth Extraction In Singapore

1. How Much MediSave Can Be Used For Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

MediSave savings can be used by patients in Singapore to foot the cost of the removal or extraction of their wisdom tooth at any participating private dental clinic under the MediSave Scheme, as long as it is a surgical procedure. Refer to CPF’s Medisave page for more information.

2. Is Wisdom Tooth Surgery Painful?

If handled by an expert dentist in Singapore such as those found in Ashford Dental, your wisdom tooth surgery should not be painful apart from light pressure during extraction as patients would have undergone sedation.

3. How Long Is Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Typically, it should take around 30-45 minutes for a wisdom tooth surgery in Singapore. The length of time varies based on whether it is a surgical or non-surgical wisdom tooth extraction.

4. Are There Alternative Options To Consider Before Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Before opting for wisdom tooth surgery, alternative options can be considered. Depending on the specific case and dental condition, some alternatives may include regular monitoring, pain management, and conservative measures to address discomfort and dental issues. Consulting with a qualified dentist in Singapore will help determine the most suitable course of action for each individual’s unique situation.

5. Will There Be Any Restrictions On Exercise After Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

Yes, there may be restrictions on exercise after wisdom tooth surgery. It is recommended to refrain from doing strenuous physical activities, heavy lifting, and intense workouts for at least the first few days following the procedure. Engaging in such activities too soon can lead to increased bleeding and potential complications in the healing process. Following your dentist’s post-surgery instructions is essential for a smooth recovery.

6. What Steps Are Taken To Minimise Pain After Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

To minimise pain after wisdom tooth surgery, several steps are taken. Dentists typically prescribe pain medications to manage discomfort. Applying ice packs to the surgical site aids in reducing the swelling and numbness of the area. Following a soft-food diet and avoiding hot or spicy foods can prevent irritation. Additionally, adhering to post-surgery care instructions, such as maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments, helps ensure a smoother recovery process.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cost

At Ashford Dental, we understand the importance of accessible and affordable dental care, especially regarding wisdom tooth surgery. For Singaporean citizens, permanent residents, or those with immediate family members who are, there is a promising option to ease the financial burden. Medisave, a national medical savings scheme, can cover a significant portion of the cost of wisdom tooth extraction.

The exact cost of wisdom tooth surgery may vary depending on the procedure’s complexity and the individual’s specific dental needs. Our team of experts in Singapore is dedicated to providing transparent and detailed pricing information tailored to each patient’s case. To obtain accurate and personalised pricing details for your wisdom tooth surgery, we encourage you to get in touch with our team in Singapore for further pricing details.

Rest assured that we are committed to assisting you in understanding the potential insurance coverage, Medisave utilisation, and subsidies that may apply to your wisdom tooth surgery. We are here to ensure that your dental experience is satisfactory and financially feasible.

Visit Our Dental Clinics

Ashford Dental Centre boasts three accessible locations across Singapore, providing comprehensive dental care services, including dental implant procedures.

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With our live chat feature, you can get immediate answers to your dental queries. Alternatively, download the Ashford App for Android devices or iOS phones to schedule appointments, access patient information and more – all at your fingertips.

All clinics are open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM, accommodating both working professionals and those with weekend availability.

Get In Touch With Us Today

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