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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Wisdom Teeth Extraction in St. Williams
Impacted or partly erupted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection or crowding. St. Williams patients can learn about assessment, removal and recovery in Port Dover.
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Caring for St. Williams patients at our office in Port Dover
Every dental service for St. WilliamsThe last molars
Not every wisdom tooth needs removing, but some do.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Some come in normally and cause no trouble. Others become impacted, erupt only partially or grow at an angle, which can lead to pain, infection, damage to neighbouring teeth or difficulty cleaning. An assessment helps decide whether removal is needed and when.
For St. Williams patients, our Port Dover dentists can examine wisdom teeth, review X-rays and explain whether extraction is recommended. Some cases are managed in the office, while more complex ones may be referred to an oral surgeon.
Assessment
X-rays help guide the decision.
Signs of problems
Pain, swelling, gum infection around a partially erupted tooth, decay in the wisdom tooth or the tooth in front, cysts and crowding are common reasons for removal. X-rays show the position of the teeth, their roots and nearby nerves and sinuses.
When monitoring is enough
Wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, healthy, cleanable and in a good position may not need removal. The dentist may suggest monitoring them at regular checkups. If symptoms develop, the decision can be revisited.
Planning
Plan the procedure around your health and schedule.
Timing and referral
Younger patients often heal more quickly, so removal may be suggested before problems become severe. Complex cases, such as deeply impacted teeth near nerves, may be referred to an oral surgeon. The dentist will explain the reasons for their recommendation.
Health considerations
Share your medical history, medications and allergies. Blood thinners and certain conditions may require special precautions. Discuss comfort options, including sedation, and arrange for someone to drive you home if needed. Plan a few days of rest afterward.
The procedure
The dentist explains each step.
Anaesthesia and removal
Local anaesthetic numbs the area, and sedation may be used for comfort. Erupted wisdom teeth may be removed like other teeth. Impacted teeth may require a small incision and removal of bone, and the tooth may be sectioned into pieces to remove it more easily.
Stitches and gauze
Stitches may be placed to help the gum heal. Gauze is placed over the site to control bleeding and help a clot form. You will receive aftercare instructions and may be given a prescription for pain relief or other medication if appropriate.
Recovery
Recovery takes a few days to a week.
The first few days
Swelling and discomfort typically peak in the first couple of days. Use cold packs, rest with your head raised and take pain relief as directed. Eat soft foods, avoid straws, smoking and vigorous rinsing and keep the area clean as instructed.
Signs of complications
Call the office if pain worsens after a few days, bleeding persists, you develop a fever or have numbness that does not fade. Seek emergency medical care for difficulty breathing or swallowing or rapidly spreading swelling.
Planning your appointment
Wisdom teeth assessment from St. Williams.
Call our Port Dover office to book an assessment. Mention any pain, swelling or difficulty opening your mouth, so the team can schedule an appropriate appointment.
If removal is planned, arrange time off for recovery and a driver if sedation is used, and stock up on soft foods beforehand.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Wisdom teeth questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Healthy, well-positioned wisdom teeth that can be cleaned may not need removal. The dentist will assess yours and recommend monitoring or extraction.
How long is recovery?
Many people feel better within a few days to a week. Complex extractions may take longer. Following aftercare instructions helps recovery.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
Local anaesthetic is always used. Sedation may be offered or available through referral. The dentist will discuss comfort options with you.
What is dry socket?
It occurs when the blood clot is dislodged or does not form, exposing bone. It causes increasing pain a few days after extraction. Contact the office if this happens.
Can wisdom teeth cause crowding?
The role of wisdom teeth in crowding is debated. Other reasons, such as infection or damage to neighbouring teeth, are more common reasons for removal.
Extraction resources
Additional Services →Dental Extractions →
When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be the safest choice. St. Williams patients can learn how extractions are planned and how healing is supported in Port Dover.
Emergency Tooth Extractions →
When infection, a split root or severe damage means a tooth must come out promptly, St. Williams patients can call our Port Dover office to discuss urgent extraction.