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Not every wisdom tooth needs removal, but impacted or infected ones often do. Silver Hill patients can learn how the decision is made and how recovery goes.
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Silver Hill patients are cared for at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Silver HillDeciding about third molars
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually appear in the late teens or early twenties. Some come in straight and healthy, but many do not have enough room and become impacted, partially erupted or angled toward neighbouring teeth. This can lead to pain, swelling, infection, decay or damage to nearby teeth, which is why removal is often recommended.
Silver Hill patients can have their wisdom teeth assessed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will review X-rays, discuss whether removal is advisable now or monitoring is reasonable, and explain whether the extraction can be done in the office or is better handled by an oral surgeon.

Do they need to come out
Wisdom teeth that are impacted, partially erupted, causing repeated infections, damaging neighbouring teeth or developing cysts are often recommended for removal. Pain, swelling, bad taste and difficulty opening the mouth can signal problems. Removal may also be advised before orthodontic treatment or if the teeth are hard to keep clean.
Wisdom teeth that have come in fully, are healthy, can be cleaned properly and are not causing problems may simply be monitored with regular checkups and X-rays. The dentist will explain the benefits and risks of removing them versus watching them, so you can make an informed decision.
Preparing
Share your medical history, medications and any allergies. X-rays or a 3D scan show the position of the teeth and their roots, including how close they are to nerves or sinuses. This helps the dentist plan the safest approach and decide whether referral to an oral surgeon is appropriate.
If sedation is planned, follow fasting instructions and arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you. Stock up on soft foods, ice packs and any recommended pain relief before the appointment. Plan to rest for at least a day or two afterward, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
The extraction
Local anaesthetic numbs the area, and sedation may be offered depending on the case and your preferences. If sedation is used, you will receive specific instructions beforehand. You may feel pressure during the procedure but should not feel sharp pain; let the dentist know if you do.
Fully erupted wisdom teeth may be removed like other teeth. Impacted teeth may require a small incision in the gum, and sometimes the tooth is divided into sections for easier removal. Stitches may be placed. Gauze is placed over the site and you will be given detailed aftercare instructions.
Recovery
Swelling and discomfort usually peak in the first couple of days and then improve. Use ice packs on the cheek, take pain relief as directed and rest with your head raised. Eat soft foods and avoid straws, smoking and vigorous rinsing as advised, since these can disturb the healing clot.
Contact the office if bleeding does not stop with pressure, pain increases after a few days, swelling worsens, you develop a fever or notice a bad taste or smell. These can signal complications such as dry socket or infection, which can be treated. Keep any follow-up appointments.
Planning your appointment
Contact our Port Dover office to have your wisdom teeth assessed. Patients from Silver Hill should mention any pain or swelling, and ask whether imaging can be arranged at the first visit.
If sedation is planned, arrange a driver and someone to stay with you. Prepare soft foods and ice packs before your extraction day.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
No. Healthy wisdom teeth that have come in properly and can be cleaned may not need removal. The dentist will assess their position and health and recommend whether to remove them or monitor them over time.
Many people feel better within a few days to a week, though healing of the gum and bone continues longer. Recovery depends on how many teeth were removed and how complex the extraction was. Follow all aftercare instructions.
Not necessarily. Many extractions are done with local anaesthetic, sometimes with sedation for comfort. Deeper sedation or general anaesthesia may be offered by an oral surgeon for complex cases. The dentist will discuss options.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot is lost from the extraction site, exposing bone and causing increasing pain a few days later. Avoid smoking, straws and vigorous rinsing to reduce the risk. Contact the office if you suspect it.
Removal is often easier in younger adults, when roots are not fully formed and bone is less dense. However, the decision depends on the individual situation. The dentist will discuss timing based on your teeth and health.
When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be best. Silver Hill patients can learn how extractions are planned in Port Dover and how to heal well.
When a tooth is badly broken or infected, urgent removal may be the safest choice. Silver Hill patients can learn how urgent removal is decided and how to heal.
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