What is wisdom tooth surgery?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth at the back of the mouth. They usually come through in the late teens or twenties.
Some come through straight and, if one needs to come out, it can be taken out like any other tooth (see extractions). Others get stuck under the gum or bone, or grow at an angle against the tooth in front. Dentists call these impacted wisdom teeth. Taking one out is minor oral surgery, done in the clinic with a local anaesthetic.
Does my wisdom tooth need to come out?
Not always. A wisdom tooth that causes no trouble can often stay, and your dentist checks it at your check-ups.
Your dentist may suggest taking it out if:
- the gum around it keeps getting sore, swollen or infected
- it has decay that cannot be cleaned or filled
- food gets trapped against the tooth in front, and that tooth starts to decay
- it is pushing on or damaging the tooth next to it
What happens before the surgery?
- Your dentist examines the area and takes an X-ray to see how the tooth sits and how close it is to the nerve in the jaw.
- They explain why they suggest surgery, what it involves, the risks, how long healing usually takes, and the cost, including whether MediSave can be used.
- You can ask questions and take time to decide.
What happens on the day?
- The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic.
- Your dentist makes a small cut in the gum. Sometimes a little bone around the tooth is removed, and the tooth may be taken out in pieces.
- The area is cleaned and closed with stitches.
- You bite on gauze for a while and get written after-care advice. A follow-up visit checks the healing and removes stitches if needed.
Sedation is not offered at our clinics. Patients who need a general anaesthetic are referred to a hospital.
How long does it take?
Wisdom tooth surgery usually takes about 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s position. This is an estimate; the time may vary after your dentist assesses your needs.
Many people rest for a day or two afterwards. Ask us for a medical certificate if you need one.
What is recovery like?
Swelling and soreness are usually worst in the first two or three days, then settle over about a week. Your jaw may feel stiff and you may not open as wide for a few days.
To help it heal:
- take the pain relief your dentist suggests
- eat soft food and chew on the other side
- do not smoke, and do not rinse hard on the first day
- after the first day, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals
What are the risks?
Your dentist explains the risks for your own tooth. They include:
- bleeding and swelling
- infection
- dry socket, when the blood clot in the socket is lost, causing pain that gets worse after two to four days
- for lower wisdom teeth close to the nerve, numbness or tingling of the lip, chin or tongue. This is usually temporary, but in rare cases it lasts.
When should I get help?
WhatsApp or call your clinic if the pain gets worse after a few days, or you notice a bad taste or smell. If you have severe swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that will not stop, go to a hospital emergency department (A&E) or call 995.
Can I use MediSave?
Surgical removal of a wisdom tooth can be claimed from MediSave, within set limits, at clinics approved for MediSave claims. All three of our clinics can make these claims. See the CPF website for current rules.
How much does it cost?
It depends on how the tooth sits and how much surgery is needed. You will know the cost after the X-ray, before anything is done.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request and choose “Wisdom tooth removal”.
If you are in pain or have swelling, tell us it is urgent when you get in touch.