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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Windham Centre
Not every wisdom tooth needs removing. Windham Centre patients can learn how impacted or problem wisdom teeth are assessed, removed or referred in Port Dover.
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Wisdom teeth decisions are best made with clear information.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Some come in without trouble, while others become impacted, grow at an angle or only partly break through the gum. Problem wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, damage to neighbouring teeth or cysts, but not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed.
Windham Centre patients with wisdom tooth concerns can have them assessed at our Port Dover office. The dentist will examine the teeth, take X-rays and explain whether removal is advisable, can be done at the office or would be better handled by an oral surgeon, depending on how complex the case is.
When removal is advised
Removal depends on symptoms and risk.
Problems wisdom teeth can cause
Wisdom teeth that are impacted or partially erupted can trap food and bacteria, leading to gum infections called pericoronitis. They can also cause decay in neighbouring molars, damage roots, crowd other teeth or develop cysts. Repeated infections, pain, swelling or decay that cannot be treated are common reasons to recommend removal. The dentist will explain the specific concerns in your case.
When monitoring is reasonable
If wisdom teeth have erupted fully, are healthy, can be cleaned well and do not affect neighbouring teeth, the dentist may recommend monitoring rather than removal. Regular X-rays can track changes over time. The decision weighs the risks of removal against the risks of leaving the teeth in place, and the dentist will discuss both sides openly.
Assessment
Careful assessment guides the plan.
Imaging and examination
The dentist examines your mouth and takes X-rays, often a panoramic image, to see the position of the wisdom teeth, their roots and nearby structures such as nerves and sinuses. In some cases, additional imaging may be recommended. These images help determine whether removal is likely to be simple or complex, and whether referral to a specialist is the safer option.
Health history
Share your medical history, medications, allergies and any previous reactions to anaesthetic. Conditions such as bleeding disorders, diabetes or heart problems may influence planning. If you are pregnant, removal may be postponed unless urgent. The dentist will explain how your health affects the timing and approach and whether any special precautions are needed beforehand for you.
The procedure
Removal ranges from straightforward to surgical.
Anaesthesia and removal
Simple extractions of fully erupted wisdom teeth are usually done under local anaesthetic. The dentist numbs the area, loosens the tooth and removes it. You may feel pressure but should not feel sharp pain. Gauze is placed to help a clot form. Nitrous oxide or other comfort options may be discussed if you feel anxious about the procedure.
Complex extractions and referral
Impacted wisdom teeth may require a small incision, removing some bone or dividing the tooth into pieces. Stitches may be placed. More complex cases, or those near nerves or sinuses, may be referred to an oral surgeon who can offer additional sedation options. The dentist will explain why referral is recommended and what to expect from the surgeon.
Recovery
Careful aftercare supports a smooth recovery.
The first few days
Rest for the remainder of the day and keep your head elevated. Bite on gauze as directed, use cold compresses to reduce swelling and take pain relief as recommended. Eat soft, cool foods and avoid using a straw, smoking or spitting forcefully for the time advised, since these can dislodge the clot. Gentle salt-water rinses may be suggested after the first day.
Signs to watch for
Some swelling, bruising and jaw stiffness are normal for a few days. Call the office if bleeding does not slow, pain worsens after the third day, you develop a fever or notice a bad taste or smell, which can suggest dry socket or infection. Seek emergency care immediately for difficulty breathing or swallowing, however unlikely that may be.
Planning your appointment
Have your wisdom teeth assessed.
Call our Port Dover office to book a wisdom tooth assessment. Windham Centre patients can mention pain, swelling or gum infections at the back of the mouth so the dentist can plan an appropriate exam and X-rays.
Bring any recent X-rays, a list of medications and details of any previous reactions to anaesthetic or sedation you may have had.
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 wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, can be cleaned well and do not cause problems may be monitored instead. The dentist will assess your teeth and explain whether removal is advisable based on your X-rays and symptoms.
Is wisdom tooth removal painful?
The area is numbed, so you should feel pressure rather than sharp pain during the procedure. Some soreness, swelling and stiffness afterward are normal and usually manageable with recommended pain relief and cold compresses at home.
How long does recovery take?
Many people feel better within a few days, though swelling and stiffness may last up to a week. Complex extractions may take longer to heal. Following aftercare instructions closely helps the recovery go smoothly and quickly.
What is dry socket?
Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the extraction site is lost or fails to form, exposing bone. It can cause throbbing pain a few days after removal. Contact the office if pain worsens instead of improving, as it can be treated.
Will I need to see an oral surgeon?
Some wisdom teeth can be removed at the dental office, while complex or deeply impacted teeth may be referred to an oral surgeon. The dentist will review your X-rays and explain which option is safest for you.
Related extraction care
Additional Services →Dental Extractions →
When a tooth cannot be saved, removal may be advised. Windham Centre patients can read about assessment, the procedure and recovery in Port Dover.
Emergency Tooth Extractions →
A badly broken or infected tooth sometimes must come out quickly. Windham Centre patients can see how urgent extractions are assessed and handled in Port Dover.