Root Canal Clininc

Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Singapore

Explore effective wisdom tooth extraction services tailored to your comfort and dental health. Understand how dental clinics that specialise in both routine and emergency removals can help address the pain, prevent future dental issues, and maintain oral hygiene.

Benefits of Having A Dentist Perform Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal by a competent dentist can support oral health, mitigating the risk of structural and infectious issues.

Preventing Dental Overcrowding

When wisdom teeth emerge, there often isn’t enough room to accommodate them, leading to overcrowding. This overcrowding can misalign existing teeth and complicate bite dynamics, potentially resulting in the need for future orthodontic treatments. Removal of wisdom teeth helps maintain alignment and can prevent the likelihood of extensive orthodontic corrections later on.

Reducing Risk of Infection and Gum Disease

Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth create niches that can harbour bacteria, leading to infections that not only cause local tissue damage but can also affect the surrounding bone and gums. Such infections may lead to persistent bad breath and more serious conditions like cysts or tumours. Removing these teeth can help mitigate these risks and support oral health.

Preventing Damage to Adjacent Teeth

Wisdom teeth can exert significant pressure on adjacent molars. This pressure can also lead to misalignment, causing discomfort and changes in bite efficiency. Removing the wisdom teeth can thus prevent these potentially damaging interactions.

Addressing Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that cannot fully break through the gums and can lead to severe pain, swelling, and infection. Removing these impacted teeth prevents the potential for these serious complications.

Avoiding Cysts and Other Complications

If a wisdom tooth doesn’t erupt correctly, the sac around it can fill with fluid, creating a cyst. These cysts can lead to serious erosion of the jawbone, nerves, and nearby teeth. Removing the wisdom teeth can therefore prevent these cysts, protecting both the jaw and overall dental health.

Improved Alignment and Space for Other Teeth

Removing wisdom teeth can help support overall dental alignment and provide space that could prevent the shifting of other teeth. This helps maintain a natural and functional dental arch, which could ease cleaning, chewing, and other dental functions.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the final set of teeth that emerge in the mouth. This third set of molars generally appears in the late teens to early twenties, often between ages 16 and 25—a time when teenagers are traditionally thought to acquire knowledge, hence the name. Located right at the back of the mouth, there is one wisdom tooth in each of the four quadrants: upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right.

Wisdom teeth are considered vestigial, no longer serving a critical function due to evolutionary changes in human diets and jaw sizes. And before the advent of antibiotics, pericoronitis (infection of the gums surrounding the wisdom tooth) was the most common cause of death among young teenagers.

Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and for those who do, these teeth can either erupt normally or become impacted—a condition where the teeth fail to emerge fully into their expected position due to blockage or misalignment along the eruption path. Structurally, wisdom teeth resemble other molars but often have varied root formations that can be fused, bulbous or splayed in different directions, complicating their extraction. When wisdom teeth align properly, and gum tissue health is maintained, they do not have to be removed. However, they often require extraction to prevent potential oral health issues.

Signs You Might Need to Go to a Dentist for Wisdom Teeth Removal

Persistent Pain in the Back of the Mouth

Experiencing ongoing discomfort or pain in the rear part of your mouth can often indicate issues with emerging wisdom teeth. This type of pain typically suggests that the wisdom teeth are struggling to find room to properly erupt, which may necessitate their removal to prevent further oral health complications.

Swelling or Tenderness in the Gums

Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the back of your mouth is a common sign that wisdom teeth are trying to emerge. This inflammation can complicate oral hygiene, as the swollen tissues may harbour bacteria and become difficult to clean effectively, potentially leading to further dental issues. Additionally, the discomfort can extend beyond just the gums; patients with inflamed and swollen gums often report accidentally biting on their lower gums when they close their mouths.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth Fully

When there is pericoronitis (Infection of the gums surrounding the wisdom tooth), this may cause trismus (difficulty in opening the mouth fully).

Signs of Infection, Such as Pus or Foul Odour

Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth tend to create pockets in the gum where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection. These infections may manifest as pus, a foul odour, or a persistent bad taste in the mouth, signalling the need for removal to prevent further oral health deterioration.

Crowding or Shifting of Nearby Teeth

Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent molars, potentially causing them to shift out of alignment. This crowding can lead to bite problems and increased dental discomfort and may complicate or necessitate orthodontic treatments.

Visible Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When wisdom teeth are impacted, they do not fully emerge through the gums and remain partially or completely hidden. Visible signs of impacted teeth include noticeable gums swelling and pain in the back of the mouth, which often require surgical intervention.

Frequent Headaches or Jaw Pain

Wisdom teeth that do not emerge properly can exert pressure on surrounding structures, leading to recurrent headaches and jaw pain. This discomfort often stems from the stress on jaw muscles and joints.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Treatment in Singapore

Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation involving various diagnostic tests and scans to determine the precise condition of your wisdom teeth and whether they need to be removed or not.

X-Rays and Imaging

Detailed X-rays and other imaging techniques are crucial in mapping out the position of wisdom teeth relative to surrounding nerves and structures. These images allow for proper surgical planning, ensuring the extraction minimises risk to adjacent teeth and jawbone.

Discussing Treatment Options

The dentist will review the imaging results with you, outlining possible treatment approaches based on the location and development stage of your wisdom teeth. Options range from simple extractions to more complex surgical interventions, depending on the level of impaction and risk involved.

For patients who may feel apprehensive about dental procedures, extraction of the teeth under IV Sedation or general anaesthesia in a dedicated day surgical centre can also be discussed.

Understanding Risks and Benefits

It’s important to understand both the risks and benefits associated with wisdom tooth removal. Your dentist will discuss potential complications like nerve damage or infection, as well as the long-term benefits of preventing more serious issues.

Financial and Insurance Information

Patients receive a breakdown of the costs associated with the extraction process, including information on insurance coverage and available payment plans. 

The main procedure for wisdom tooth extraction involves proper planning and execution. It starts with patient preparation and anaesthesia, followed by the careful removal of the tooth, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

Preparation and Anesthesia

Prior to the extraction, the patient will undergo thorough preparation to ensure safety and comfort. Anaesthesia options, tailored to the individual’s health and the complexity of the procedure, may include local, sedation, or general anaesthesia to provide a soothing experience.

Managing Impacted Teeth

Managing impacted wisdom teeth requires proper and skilful surgical techniques. The dentist may need to make incisions in the gum to expose the tooth, remove bone tissue obstructing access, and carefully section the tooth into smaller parts to minimise damage to the jawbone and nearby nerves.

Effective post-operative care is critical for a smooth recovery following wisdom tooth extraction. This phase includes managing discomfort, dietary adjustments, specific oral hygiene practices, and vigilant monitoring for any signs of complications.

Pain Management

Post-surgery, medications are prescribed to manage any swelling and discomfort. These may include anti-inflammatories and pain relievers, carefully selected based on the patient’s health profile and specific needs to ensure comfort during the recovery process.

Dietary Recommendations

After wisdom tooth extraction, it’s crucial to stick to a soft food diet to avoid irritating the surgical site. Recommended foods include porridge, smooth soups, soft-cooked fish, and tofu, which are gentle on the gums and conducive to healing.

Oral Hygiene Instructions

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene post-extraction is paramount. Patients are advised to gently rinse with mouthwash, avoid brushing directly at the extraction site for the first few days, and abstain from smoking and strenuous activities to promote healing.

Monitoring for Complications

Patients are instructed to watch for signs of infection or unusual bleeding and to report any persistent pain or swelling. Early detection of these symptoms is vital for prompt treatment and to prevent more serious complications.

Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain

Infection or Pericoronitis

Infection, often called pericoronitis in the context of wisdom teeth, occurs when the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth becomes swollen and infected. This condition is common in partially erupted wisdom teeth, where bacteria accumulate under the flap of gum, leading to painful swelling and, sometimes, the spread of infection to the throat or neck.

Tooth Decay or Cavities

The wisdom teeth, situated at the rear of the mouth, can be difficult to clean thoroughly. This often leads to an accumulation of plaque and food debris, resulting in decay. Extended neglect can cause significant decay not only in the wisdom teeth but also in adjacent teeth, potentially leading to their loss if intervention is delayed.

Gum Inflammation or Swelling

Gum inflammation around wisdom teeth, often due to plaque accumulation from inadequate cleaning, can cause significant discomfort. This inflammation can escalate to more severe gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis, necessitating emergency dental care to manage discomfort and prevent further oral health deterioration.

Misalignment or Crowding

Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to crowding or shifting. This not only affects oral hygiene and appearance but can also undo the benefits of previous orthodontic treatments, complicating dental alignment and requiring further corrective procedures.

Eruption Issues

Problems with wisdom tooth eruption can lead to a variety of complications. If a wisdom tooth emerges at an angle, it may interrupt the alignment of other teeth, cause bite irregularities, or become impacted—a condition where a tooth is partially trapped beneath the gums, often causing pain and leading to other dental issues.

Types of Emergency Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Singapore

Emergency wisdom tooth extraction is a necessary dental procedure for managing severe pain and preventing further oral health complications. This treatment is critical when a wisdom tooth develops issues that cannot be resolved through conservative measures.

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction involves removing a wisdom tooth that has fully emerged above the gum line. This procedure is usually done under local anaesthesia, and the dentist uses specific tools to gently loosen the tooth and then remove it with forceps. The process generally causes minimal discomfort, making it an option worth considering for teeth that are easily accessible and not impacted.

Surgical Extraction

Surgical extraction becomes necessary when wisdom teeth are improperly aligned, partially emerged, or trapped within the jawbone. The procedure typically starts with an incision in the gum to access the tooth and underlying bone. It is necessary to remove some bone and sometimes section the tooth into smaller sections to facilitate the extraction process. Depending on the case’s complexity and the patient’s comfort requirements, local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia might be used. This method is more complex than simple extractions and often requires a longer recovery time.

Cost of Emergency Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Singapore

The cost of emergency wisdom tooth extraction in Singapore varies based on the complexity of the procedure, the clinic, and whether it is a simple or surgical extraction. Most dental clinics accept MediSave for surgical procedures, which include the removal of wisdom teeth if they are causing complications or pain. MediSave can cover up to S$300 per day for associated charges such as day surgery facilities, necessary investigations, medication, and doctor’s fees. Additionally, the surgical procedure itself is covered up to certain limits, ranging from S$250 to s$7,550, depending on the surgical complexity.

For those eligible under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS), subsidies are available to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for wisdom tooth extraction. It is advised that patients should consult with their dental provider to understand the full scope of costs involved and the amount that can be offset by MediSave and CHAS subsidies.

Claimable by MediSave?

Eligible for CHAS subsidy?

Consultation

Nil

Yes

Simple Extraction

Nil

Yes

Surgery

S$650 or S$1250 per tooth

No

Risks of Wisdom Tooth Surgery in Singapore

Wisdom tooth extraction, while common, carries certain risks that patients should be aware of. Understanding these risks can help in preparing for the procedure and managing recovery effectively.

Infection at the Extraction Site

After wisdom tooth surgery, there’s a chance of an infection developing at the extraction site because the wound is exposed to bacteria in the mouth. Adhering strictly to post-operative care instructions such as maintaining excellent oral hygiene and following the prescribed medication regime helps in lowering the risk of infection.

Dry Socket (Alveolar Osteitis)

Dry socket is a painful condition that can arise when the blood clot at a tooth extraction site does not form properly. Managing a dry socket involves maintaining good oral hygiene, taking antibiotics, and quitting smoking. Prompt treatment from your endodontic surgeon can address the pain and promote healing.

Nerve Damage Leading to Numbness

One of the less common but serious risks of wisdom tooth extraction is nerve damage, which may cause temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks. Surgeons take great care to minimise this risk by using proper surgical techniques and 3D imaging to avoid nerve structures.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising of the cheeks and jawline are typical after wisdom tooth removal. These effects are generally temporary, improving after a couple of weeks. Applying ice packs and following the dentist’s guidelines can also help manage swelling and support recovery.

Prolonged Bleeding

It is normal to experience some bleeding after wisdom tooth removal. Your dental care provider will give specific instructions on how to manage and minimise bleeding, which typically subsides within a few hours post-operation. In cases where bleeding is excessive, it is crucial to contact your dentist for further advice or care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Tooth Removal in Singapore

The healing time following a wisdom tooth extraction generally ranges from a few days to a week, influenced by the procedure’s complexity and individual recovery speeds. While most individuals can return to their usual routines within a few days, the full healing of gum tissue may require several weeks.

Yes, it is common to remove all four wisdom teeth in one session, especially if they are all impacted or likely to cause problems. This approach minimises the number of times you need to undergo anaesthesia and recovery, streamlining the overall process. However, please discuss this with your dentist first to determine if this is the right approach for you.

Even if you do not currently feel pain, wisdom teeth can still cause issues such as crowding, infections, or damage to adjacent teeth. A dental assessment can help determine if preemptive removal is advisable to prevent future complications.

Post-operative pain typically peaks within the first few days and gradually diminishes. Most patients find that pain is manageable within a week with the help of prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. Persistent or worsening pain should be reported to your dentist.

After wisdom tooth extraction, it’s recommended to start with soft foods like yoghurt, smoothies, and soups while avoiding hard, crunchy, or very hot foods to prevent irritation of the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce normal foods as healing progresses over the following weeks.