Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, usually emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some individuals have wisdom teeth that grow in without issues, others may experience complications that require professional assessment and care. At Alpha Dental Group, we provide evaluation and management to support your oral health.
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Understanding Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often appear between the ages of 17 and 25. In many cases, there is limited space in the mouth for these teeth, which can lead to partial eruption, misalignment, or impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not fully emerge or grow in at an angle, potentially causing discomfort or affecting neighbouring teeth.
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Common Issues with Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to a range of concerns, including:

• Impaction: When teeth are unable to fully emerge, they may remain trapped beneath the gum line.
• Crowding: The eruption of wisdom teeth can push neighbouring teeth, affecting alignment.
• Infection or inflammation: Partially erupted teeth can be harder to clean, leading to gum inflammation or infection.
• Cysts or damage to adjacent teeth: In rare cases, impacted teeth can cause cysts or affect nearby teeth.

Early assessment allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications.
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Diagnosis and Assessment

A thorough evaluation is essential to determine the position and health of wisdom teeth. At Alpha Dental Group, the assessment may include:

• Clinical examination: Evaluating gum and teeth alignment.
• Dental X-rays: Identifying impacted teeth, their position, and any potential complications.
• Discussion of options: Based on the findings, a tailored plan is recommended to manage or remove wisdom teeth if necessary.

Treatment Options

Management of wisdom teeth depends on individual needs and the presence of symptoms. Common approaches include:
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Monitoring

For wisdom teeth that are healthy and correctly aligned, monitoring through regular dental check-ups may be sufficient. This ensures any changes are detected early.
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Extraction

If wisdom teeth are impacted, causing discomfort, or posing a risk to neighbouring teeth, extraction may be advised. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, with care taken to manage recovery and minimise discomfort.
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Post-Extraction Care

Following extraction, patients receive guidance on caring for the area, including:

• Maintaining oral hygiene while avoiding the extraction site initially
• Following dietary recommendations to support healing
• Monitoring for signs of infection or delayed healing

When to Seek Professional Advice

Wisdom teeth should be assessed if you experience:

• Persistent pain or tenderness in the back of the mouth
• Swelling or redness around the area
• Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing comfortably
• Recurring infections near the molars

Timely evaluation allows for appropriate management and reduces the likelihood of more complex issues developing.
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Contact Alpha Dental Group

If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth or require assessment, Alpha Dental Group provides professional evaluation and care. Contact us to arrange an appointment and discuss the most suitable approach for maintaining your oral health.