Wisdom Tooth
Extraction
in Singapore

Safely Remove an Impacted Wisdom Tooth for Better Hygiene & Comfort

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in individuals between the ages of 17 and 25. As the mouths of most adults can comfortable fit 28 teeth, these additional molars often lack room to grow properly. This can cause them to become impacted, erupt partially or grow at awkward angles. Leading to pain, swelling, infection or crowding of nearby teeth.

Symptoms That Indicate You May Need Extraction

  • Pain or swelling in the corners of your mouth
  • Difficulty opening your mouth
  • Bad taste or bad breath
  • Tooth decay in the molars surrounding your wisdom teeth

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.

What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure used to remove one or more wisdom teeth when they cause pain, infection, crowding, or other oral health problems. The treatment helps prevent further complications and protects the health of surrounding teeth and gums.

Simple Vs Surgical Extraction

A wisdom tooth can be removed through a simple extraction or surgical extraction.

  • Simple Extraction This is performed when the wisdom tooth has completely grown out of the gum line and is visible in the mouth. During the procedure, the dentist uses forceps and an elevator tool to loosen and pull the tooth. A simple extraction is suitable for teeth not impacted or causing significant alignment issues.
  • Surgical Extraction A surgical extraction is needed when the wisdom tooth is impacted or difficult to access—partially or fully trapped in the gum tissue or jawbone. Performed by an oral maxillofacial surgeon, this procedure involves making an incision in the gum to remove a small, overlying bone. The surgeon will then section the tooth into pieces for 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.

How Wisdom Tooth Extraction Is Performed

We will review your medical history, perform an examination, followed by an X-ray to assess the tooth’s position. The findings will guide the recommended procedure.

Anaesthesia is administered depending on the complexity of your extraction and comfort. Local anaesthesia is used to numb a specific area, whereas general anaesthesia is preferred for more complex cases.

If required in surgical extraction, a small incision is made in the gum and bone may be gently removed to access the affected areas.

The wisdom tooth is loosened and extracted. In surgical extraction, the tooth might be sectioned into smaller pieces using specialised tools.

The extraction site is cleaned and dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches are placed. Gauze may be applied to control initial bleeding.

You will be allowed to briefly rest in the clinic. Upon discharge, you will be provided with home care instructions including pain management and diet.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Swelling and discomfort are normal in the first few days. Here's what to expect:

  • Days 1–2: Mild swelling and soreness; soft diet recommended
  • Day 3 onwards: Gradual return to normal activities
  • Day 7: Stitches removed during follow-up visit (if non-dissolvable)

Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.

What Are the Risks and How to Minimise Them

Like any surgery, wisdom tooth removal carries potential risks, though they are generally low and manageable with proper care:

  • Pain and Swelling – Mild pain, swelling and bruising are common. Ice packs and prescribed pain relief usually help.
  • Bleeding – Slight bleeding is expected at first and can be controlled with gauze and resting with your head elevated.
  • Infection – Rare, but may cause swelling or discharge. Antibiotics and gentle saltwater rinses reduce the risk.
  • Dry Socket (Alveolar Osteitis) – When the blood clot dislodges, exposing bone and causing pain. Avoid smoking, straws and vigorous rinsing for a few days to lower the risk.
  • Nerve Injury – Occasionally, temporary numbness in the lip, tongue or chin may occur, especially with lower wisdom teeth. Pre-op imaging helps reduce this risk.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.

Our Wisdom Tooth Specialist

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

FAQs on Wisdom Tooth Extraction

For appointments and enquiries, please call (65) 6836 9808 or fill in the form below.
We’ll get back to you within one business day.
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