We can all agree that wisdom tooth pain is probably one of the most painful experiences we can have. We can remove them either through a simple extraction or surgery.
Why do some of us need to remove our wisdom teeth? What are the benefits of wisdom tooth removal? And what is the procedure like? These are some of the questions we will be answering in this pocket guide, and tell you all you need to know about wisdom tooth removal in Singapore.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most adults have. They are located at the back of the mouth, behind the second molars. Most adults have a total of four wisdom teeth, two on top and two on the bottom. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, but they can erupt later or earlier in some people.
In the X-ray diagram below, you can see that wisdom teeth are the very last teeth at the back of the mouth.
What Purpose Do Wisdom Teeth Serve?
From an evolutionary perspective, anthropologists have revealed that the last set of molars, called wisdom teeth, were necessary for our ancestors to help them chew very coarse, tough, or hard foods like nuts, roots, leaves, and meats. However, our wisdom teeth no longer serve their original purpose; we now have soft, cooked food and modern tools like knives, forks, and spoons to assist us during meals.
What’s the Development Process of Our Teeth?
Teeth grow systematically, from temporary milk teeth to permanent teeth, followed by wisdom teeth. The first and second sets of molar teeth typically form at ages 6 and 12. Wisdom teeth start to develop around age 10 but do not erupt until you are 17 to 25 years old. This is why children are encouraged to see a dentist early, as professionals can spot growth and monitor progression to prevent future problems.
Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, but those who do generally have between 1 and 4. In some cases, there may be even more. Scientists have not yet found a definitive reason for why the number of wisdom teeth varies so much between individuals.
Similarly, not everyone will experience issues or pain with their wisdom teeth. However, if problems do arise, they often lead to a series of dental issues that persist until the teeth are extracted.
What Causes Wisdom Tooth Pain?
When wisdom teeth hurt, it is likely a result of the following reasons:
Growth
If your wisdom teeth hurt, it could simply be because they are growing in. The process of breaking through the gums might cause slight pain, tenderness, and swelling.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
In many cases, wisdom teeth are impacted because they don’t have enough room to erupt normally. There are various types of impaction based on how the tooth is positioned.
Mesial Impaction
- Most common
- Partially erupted
- Angled towards the front of the mouth
- May or may not cause any issue
Vertical Impaction
- Full impaction
- Tooth is in the correct position but is below the gums
- Extraction rarely needed
Horizontal Impaction
- Full impaction
- Tooth is lying horizontally under the gums and moves sideways
- Most painful type
- Must be surgically removed
Distal Impaction
- Rarest
- Angled towards the back of the mouth
- Partially or fully impacted
- May or may not need extraction
Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Tooth?
When wisdom teeth fail to erupt completely and stay receded, oral issues occur. These include overcrowding or dislocation of permanent teeth. Other issues that could occur include:
Cavity
Because it is so cramped at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth often grow very close to other teeth. This lack of space makes them hard to clean, meaning cavities could appear and cause pain.
Cyst Development
When a wisdom tooth is impacted, a cyst may form at the tooth’s follicle, causing pain in the tooth and jawbone.
Gum Disease
The location of wisdom teeth makes them difficult to clean, often resulting in gum disease and bacterial growth. In severe cases, conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis could occur.
Teeth Crowding
If wisdom teeth are misaligned when they erupt, they can push other teeth into disarray, affecting your appearance, speech, and oral hygiene.
How Do I Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain?
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing your wisdom teeth is the most straightforward way to solve related issues and prevent future problems. While cold compresses and painkillers provide immediate relief, they do not solve the root of the problem. The best long term solution is removal.
How Do I Know if I Have Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth do not always cause symptoms. However, they may become infected or damage other teeth. Watch for these signs:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums: Tenderness or discomfort in the back of the mouth.
- Jaw pain and swelling: Difficulty opening your mouth, stiffness, or soreness.
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste: Caused by trapped food particles or infection.
At What Age Should I Have Wisdom Tooth Removal?
We recommend carrying out the procedure between ages 18 and 24, before the roots are fully formed. Older patients may face more complications and longer healing periods.
What are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
- Reduction in headaches: Relieves pressure caused by shifting teeth.
- Prevention of pain: Stops orofacial pain caused by crowding.
- Reduced risk of disease: Makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene.
- Fewer oral injuries: Prevents accidental cheek biting or tongue scratches.
The Procedure and Recovery
Wisdom tooth removal typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Local or general anesthesia is used to ensure you do not feel pain. After the surgery, full recovery takes a few days.
Aftercare Instructions:
- Maintain the blood clot: Avoid using straws, smoking, or spitting for the first 24 hours.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods.
- Pain Management: Use ice packs for the first 48 hours, then switch to a hot compress. Take prescribed medications as directed.
- Oral Hygiene: Do not brush the site for 24 hours. Afterward, rinse gently with saltwater.
Cost of Wisdom Tooth Removal in Singapore
| Procedure | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Regular Extraction | $65 – $190 |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction | $250 – $350 |
| Impacted Wisdom Tooth Surgery* | $650 – $1800 |
| *Medisave claimable | |
Medisave Claims
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents can claim surgical costs through Medisave. Limits generally range from $650 to $1550 depending on the complexity and tooth division required.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can cause significant trouble, but extraction is a safe and effective solution. If you are experiencing discomfort, contact Smilepoint to book an appointment.
References
- HealthHub Singapore – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
- Jaroń, A., & Trybek, G. (2021). Mandibular Third Molar Impaction Study.
- Ghaeminia, H., et al. (2020). Surgical removal versus retention.
- Mayo Clinic – Wisdom tooth extraction.
- Friedman J. W. (2007). The prophylactic extraction of third molars.
