Wisdom Tooth Removal

During the procedure, you won't feel pain due to anaesthesia. After the anaesthetic wears off, you'll experience some discomfort and swelling, typically managed well with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report the pain is less severe than they expected, and it decreases significantly after the first 3-4 days.

A simple extraction typically takes 15-30 minutes. Surgical removal of an impacted wisdom tooth usually takes 30-60 minutes. If removing multiple teeth, expect the procedure to last 1-2 hours total. Your consultation will provide a more accurate time estimate based on your specific case.

Most patients take 1-2 days off for simple extractions and 2-3 days for surgical extractions. Some people with more complex cases may need up to a week. You should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least a week to prevent complications like bleeding or dry socket.

For the first 24-48 hours, stick to soft foods and liquids like smoothies, yogurt, lukewarm soup, ice cream, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, crunchy foods, and don't use straws. After a few days, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods, avoiding anything hard or crunchy for at least a week.

Not necessarily. Some patients only have one or two problematic wisdom teeth. However, many dentists recommend removing all four at once if multiple teeth are impacted, as it means only one recovery period. During your consultation, we'll discuss what's best for your specific situation.

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or fails to form, exposing the bone and nerves. It affects 2-5% of patients. To prevent it, avoid smoking, using straws, spitting forcefully, and rinsing vigorously for the first 24-48 hours. If you develop severe pain 3-4 days post-surgery, contact us immediately.

Yes, if you receive IV sedation or general anaesthetic. With local anaesthetic only, you can drive yourself home. We recommend having someone accompany you regardless, for support and to help you remember post-operative instructions.

The ideal time is typically in your late teens or early twenties when the roots aren't fully developed, making extraction easier and recovery faster. However, wisdom teeth causing symptoms should be removed at any age. Regular dental check-ups with X-rays can identify potential problems early.

Costs vary based on the complexity of the extraction, type of anaesthesia, and how many teeth are being removed. Simple extractions are less expensive than surgical removal of impacted teeth. We provide transparent pricing during your consultation and offer flexible payment plans. Contact us for a personalized quote.