Overview
To Remove or
Not to Remove.
Most of us are faced with the decision to keep or remove wisdom teeth at some stage in life. What makes some wisdoms necessary to come out, and others fine to stay?
The main factors we look at are the spacing — is there sufficient space for the teeth to erupt — and the angulation — is the angle coinciding with the adjacent teeth. For some reason, wisdoms tend to be one of the most confused teeth, often coming in crooked, and can remain partially erupted but trapped under the gums, leading to a painful condition called pericoronitis.
The term 'wisdom' tooth is really a misnomer.
For illustration purposes only. Individual treatment planning and outcomes may vary.
Timing
The Right Age
to Act.
We typically start to look at the need for wisdom teeth removal in the late teens or early twenties. They can be removed at any age, however more youthful bone allows for easier removal and more rapid recovery.
Occasionally we remove wisdoms prior to orthodontic treatment if we feel they will compromise the movement we need to achieve.
Read the Article – Wisdom TeethWhen Removal Is Recommended
Insufficient space for the tooth to erupt, poor angulation affecting adjacent teeth, partial eruption causing gum infection (pericoronitis), or anticipated compromise of orthodontic treatment.
When They Can Stay
If wisdom teeth are fully erupted, correctly aligned, and free from crowding or hygiene concerns, there may be no clinical indication for removal. Equally, a fully unerupted wisdom tooth assessed as lower risk to leave than to extract will be monitored conservatively rather than removed. We will always give you a straightforward, evidence-based recommendation.
Our Approach
Why Choose
Element Dental?
3D Imaging Technology
We use advanced 3D imaging to assess whether wisdom teeth need removing, and to understand the difficulty level and associated risks before any procedure begins.
Thorough Risk Assessment
Wisdom teeth removal carries risks including nerve damage, bone fracture, sinus exposure, post-operative discomfort, and dry socket. We assess each case carefully and discuss all risks with you upfront.
Full Sedation Options
Depending on the complexity of your case, wisdoms can be removed under local anaesthetic, with sedation, or in hospital by a maxillofacial surgeon under general anaesthesia. We guide you to the right option.
Honest, Expert Advice
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. We will give you a straightforward, evidence-based assessment — and only recommend removal when it is genuinely in your best interest.
Concerned About
Your Wisdom Teeth?
Book a consultation and we'll assess your wisdom teeth with 3D imaging — giving you a clear, honest picture of what's needed and what to expect.
Call Us →General & Cosmetic Dentistry & Implant Centre
– Erina Dentist