Wisdom teeth extractions - Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Wisdom teeth are no different to other molars( back teeth), which start erupting after we turn 6 years old. They are the molars that come last, usually in the late teens or early 20s. Wisdom teeth can be a blessing if they can replace other teeth. For example if one of the other molars is not well developed like in MIH( Molar Incisor Hypoplasia) or if other teeth need to be removed.

During the human evolution, the size of the jaws has decreased, leaving at times not enough room for wisdom teeth to come through. The result may be a wisdom tooth that erupt in an angle, pushing into the gum or to the tooth besides it. This is called impaction. A wisdom tooth in an angle can’t help with chewing, which makes it useless and sometimes painful when bacteria manage to establish themselves around it and causes an abscess. This is usually the reason why some patients need to have their wisdom teeth removed. Dr Kaufman has much experience in the removal of wisdom teeth, done under local anaesthesia, nitrous oxide sedation, deep vein sedation and general anaesthesia.

It is important to check the presence and position of the wisdom teeth at the age of 15 to 17 years old to find out if they are likely to cause problems. This is part of our comprehensive periodical exam.

Dr Kaufman has purchased the latest ultrasonic surgical system which is much better than the previously used drills. This system allows for the immediate removal of the wisdom teeth in an more efficient way.

Please contact Dr Kaufman for more information or contact the Practice to book an appointment.