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Singapore 228210
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Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge—usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While the average adult mouth comfortably fits 28 teeth, these four additional molars often don't have enough room to grow in properly. This can lead to a range of dental issues if left untreated.
The reason for wisdom tooth growth is a mystery, but unfortunately, by the time they arrive, most people do not have room in their jaw bones to allow them to come in straight.
Once you are experiencing the symptoms related to impacted wisdom teeth, the damage has already begun. The longer you wait into adulthood, the more difficult the wisdom teeth removal can be and the more damage can be done.
Not all wisdom teeth pierce through the gums. They can be impacted even if you don’t feel them there. Some do come in straight and do not present as much of a problem. Some grow in crooked.
There’s only one way to know for sure. Visit a dentist with a routine dental X-ray. It will show whether your wisdom teeth are causing problems.
Removing them as early as possible. As a young person, the roots have not had as much time to fully form, making wisdom tooth extraction much easier and causing fewer potential complications from wisdom tooth surgery. The longer you wait, the more difficult the extraction will be, while the effect of impacted wisdom teeth will be felt even greater.
A wisdom tooth can be removed through a simple extraction or surgical extraction.
The type of extraction needed depends entirely on the tooth's position and condition. Consult a dentist for a thorough diagnosis to determine which procedure is most suitable for you.
The procedure for wisdom tooth extraction is meticulously planned to ensure patient comfort and successful outcomes. Patients can expect the following steps:
Your dental surgeon will determine the most suitable approach based on the complexity of your extraction and your comfort preferences.
The procedure typically takes about 10–40 minutes per tooth, depending on the complexity of the case.
Swelling and discomfort are normal in the first few days. Here's what to expect:
Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.
Like any surgery, wisdom tooth removal carries potential risks, though they are generally low and manageable with proper care:
Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.
Dr Wong is an experienced dental specialist for various complex dental cases, particularly wisdom teeth removal. She qualified from the University of Malaya in 1995 and obtained her Master of Dental Surgery in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from the National University of Singapore in 2002. Dr Wong is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Academy of Medicine, Singapore. Her expertise covers both simple and surgical extractions, ensuring patients receive safe, precise and comfortable care.
Dr Wong Wai Yee
Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon
With modern anaesthesia techniques, the procedure is relatively pain-free. You may feel some pressure, but no pain during the extraction.
Simple extractions can take as little as 15–30 minutes. Surgical cases may take longer, depending on the tooth's position.
You may need 1–2 days of rest. Most people return to light duties within a few days.
Soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and porridge are recommended for the first few days.
Depending on the complexity of the procedure, 1–3 days of medical leave may be advised.
The exact cost of wisdom tooth removal varies depending on complexity of the case and the type of anaesthesia used. Schedule a consultation at our dental centre to get a personalised quote.
Medisave can only be used for surgical wisdom tooth removal. However, simple, non-surgical extractions are not eligible.
