WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL
Wisdom Teeth Removal
The wisdom tooth, also known as the third molar, begins to erupt at around the ages of 16 to 20 years old. In many cases, there is insufficient space in the jaw to accommodate the wisdom teeth. This results in the tooth erupting at an odd angle (known as impaction) and seen to emerge only partially through the gums.
This may result in food being trapped between the tooth and gums, leading to dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Removal of an impacted wisdom tooth requires surgery to section the tooth and to remove it in several parts.
Wisdom tooth removal is a simple, routine surgical procedure that can be performed comfortably in one office visit.
It can be removed either via simple wisdom tooth extraction or in the case of an impacted wisdom tooth it can be removed via a wisdom tooth surgery. In the case of simple wisdom tooth extraction, the wisdom tooth is extracted without any need for surgery and the procedure is done under local anesthesia.
In an impacted wisdom tooth or difficult wisdom tooth extraction, wisdom tooth surgery is performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. In local anesthesia, the surgeon will administer local anesthetic and proceed with the surgery once the surgical site is numb. An incision will be made at the surgical site and the bone and tooth exposed. The bone may need to be removed in some cases to enable the wisdom tooth to be elevated and the wisdom tooth may need to be sectioned or cut to facilitate the removal. Once the impacted wisdom tooth is successfully delivered, the surgical site will be irrigated and cleansed.
Fees
Procedures Covered | Medisave Withdrawal Limit (S$) |
Without tooth division | Up to $350 |
With tooth division | Up to $950 |
Deep & with tooth division | Up to $1,250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The risks and benefits of wisdom teeth removal will be explained and discussed.
Infection: Most are minor and will subside with local incision and drainage, and antibiotics. The whole course of antibiotics should be completed.
Tooth root fracture: The roots may be retrieved or left in situ. The dentist may decide to leave the root in situ if there is no pathology or if the root is very close to the nerve or at an unfavourable anatomical site.
Dry socket: This occurs when blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site and bone is exposed in the early healing stage. It is usually seen in women on oral contraceptive pills and smokers. If you experience a constant throbbing pain that lasts for many days, contact the dentist.
Numbness or altered sensation: An impacted lower wisdom tooth may be close to the nerve. When the nerve is injured during extraction, it will usually heal. Bruising of the nerve may cause numbness, tingling and loss of feeling in teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue, chin and gum and it may be temporary or permanent.
Displaced tooth: In some cases, an impacted tooth may be displaced into the sinus and the different spaces around the jaw.
Jaw fracture
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