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3rd Molar ( Wisdom Tooth ) Removal

This should only be carried out if there is definite pathology or if there are persistent symptoms. The removal of these teeth can cause serious long term problems and so should not be undertaken lightly.

How are they removed ?

The gum is first lifted off the bone via a small incision - the design being slightly in the lower and upper jaws respectively

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Bone is then removed from above the tooth

and around the crown of the tooth

The crown is then sectioned from the root and elevated out

The roots can then be elevated into the space previously occupied by the crown and elevated out of the socket

The gum is then replaced and held in place with sutures

What can I expect after the surgery ?

There will probably be pain and swelling in the back of the jaw which will last 3-4 days

Jaw opening may be limited for a similar period.

Occasionally there may be some bleeding.

Generally speaking upper wisdom tooth removal is a lot less problematic than that of the lower.

Will there be any long term problems ?

The main long term complication of lower wisdom tooth removal is numbness of the lower lip and tongue. The operator should be we'll aware of this and will make every effort to minimise its likelihood.

This is an X ray of a lower wisdom tooth. The red line shows the position of the nerve that gives sensation to the lower lip. It is very close to the roots of the third molar and could be damaged during surgery. The nerve to the tongue can be similarly damaged.

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