Wisdom Teeth Removal in Woodstock

Wisdom teeth removal at our practice is provided in-house by Dr. John McIntosh, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Patients can be assessed and treated at our Woodstock location, with sedation options available when appropriate.

Services include:

• Assessment and x-rays of the wisdom teeth
• Removal of fully emerged and impacted wisdom teeth
• Sedation and sleep dentistry for oral surgery
• Laughing gas for anxious patients

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop and typically emerge between the late teens and mid-twenties.

When there is not enough room in the jaw, a wisdom tooth may grow in at an angle or emerge only partially. A tooth that remains trapped beneath the gum or bone is described as impacted.

Common signs of a wisdom tooth problem include:

• Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw
• Swollen or tender gums around a back tooth
• A recurring bad taste or bad breath
• Stiffness or difficulty opening the mouth
• Food becoming trapped at the back of the mouth

In some cases, a wisdom tooth problem causes no symptoms and is identified during a routine examination or on an x-ray.

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Wisdom teeth that emerge fully, function normally and can be kept clean may be monitored at regular check-ups instead.

Removal may be recommended when a wisdom tooth is:

• Impacted beneath the gum or bone
• Partially emerged and prone to infection
• Causing pain, swelling or repeated infection
• Damaging or crowding the neighbouring teeth
• Decayed and difficult to clean or restore

1. Assessment

   The wisdom teeth are examined and x-rays are taken to check their position, their roots and the surrounding bone.

2. Treatment planning

   If removal is recommended, the procedure, sedation options and costs are explained, and instructions for the day of treatment are provided.

3. Removal

   The wisdom teeth are removed at our Woodstock office using the selected anesthetic or sedation option.

4. Aftercare and follow-up

   Written aftercare instructions are provided, and our office remains available for questions during healing.

Several comfort options are available for wisdom teeth removal. The most appropriate option depends on the procedure, the patient's medical history and their level of anxiety.

Local anesthetic

Used for every procedure to numb the treatment area.

Laughing gas (nitrous oxide)

A mild sedative inhaled through a small nasal mask to help anxious patients relax.

Sedation and sleep dentistry

Deeper sedation options for oral surgery, provided by Dr. McIntosh.

Patients receiving sedation for oral surgery must arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home after the appointment.

Some swelling, tenderness and minor bleeding are normal in the first few days after wisdom teeth removal. Recovery time varies with the number of teeth removed and the complexity of the procedure.

Aftercare recommendations include:

• Resting for the remainder of the day
• Applying a cold compress to the cheek to reduce swelling
• Eating soft foods and avoiding very hot drinks
• Avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw
• Rinsing gently as directed
• Taking medication as recommended

Patients are encouraged to contact our office if pain, swelling or bleeding increases rather than improves.