Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth (third molars) typically emerge between ages 17-25. While some people have no issues, many require extraction due to complications.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Problematic?
Modern humans have smaller jaws than our ancestors, often leaving insufficient room for wisdom teeth. This can cause:
Impaction
Teeth that can’t fully emerge because:
- They’re blocked by other teeth
- They’re growing at an angle
- There’s not enough jaw space
Common Problems
1. Pain and Swelling
- Pressure on adjacent teeth
- Inflammation around partially erupted teeth
- Infection (pericoronitis)
2. Damage to Adjacent Teeth
- Crowding
- Decay from food trapping
- Resorption of neighboring tooth roots
3. Cysts and Tumors
- Rare but possible with impacted teeth
- Can damage jawbone and nerves
4. Gum Problems
- Difficult-to-clean areas
- Chronic inflammation
- Increased cavity risk
Signs You May Need Extraction
- Persistent pain at the back of your mouth
- Swelling around the jaw
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Difficulty chewing
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Your dentist recommends removal
The Extraction Process
Consultation
Before extraction, we:
- Take X-rays or CT scans
- Assess tooth position and complexity
- Discuss anesthesia options
- Review your medical history
- Plan the procedure
Types of Extraction
Simple Extraction
- For fully erupted teeth
- Local anesthesia
- Relatively quick
- Shorter recovery
Surgical Extraction
- For impacted or partially erupted teeth
- May require incision and bone removal
- Local anesthesia with or without sedation
- Slightly longer recovery
During the Procedure
1. Anesthesia administration
2. Access to the tooth (incision if needed)
3. Removal of bone if blocking tooth
4. Tooth removal (sometimes in sections)
5. Cleaning the socket
6. Stitches if needed (usually dissolvable)
Recovery After Extraction
First 24 Hours
Do:
- Bite gently on gauze for 30-45 minutes
- Apply ice packs to cheek (20 min on, 20 min off)
- Rest and relax
- Take prescribed medications
- Eat soft, cool foods
Don’t:
- Spit or use straws (can dislodge blood clot)
- Smoke (delays healing, risk of dry socket)
- Rinse vigorously
- Eat hard or hot foods
- Exercise strenuously
Days 2-7
- Continue soft food diet
- Gentle salt water rinses (after 24 hours)
- Gradually resume normal activities
- Keep extraction site clean
- Take medications as directed
Full Healing
- Soft tissue heals in 1-2 weeks
- Bone healing takes 3-6 months
- Most return to normal within a week
Potential Complications
Dry Socket
- Occurs when blood clot is lost
- Causes severe pain
- More common in smokers
- Treatable with medicated dressings
Infection
- Signs: fever, increased swelling, pus
- Treated with antibiotics
- Contact us immediately if suspected
Nerve Damage
- Rare
- Usually temporary if it occurs
- Can cause numbness in tongue or lip
Cost Considerations
Wisdom teeth removal costs in Nairobi vary based on:
- Number of teeth removed
- Complexity (impaction level)
- Type of anesthesia
- Need for CT scans
At Twinkle Family Dental Care, we provide:
- Clear cost estimates
- Payment plans
- Insurance coordination
Schedule Your Consultation
Worried about your wisdom teeth? Contact our family dental clinic in Nairobi for an evaluation and honest advice about whether extraction is necessary.
