Wisdom teeth removal

Talk to your Bristol dentist if you’re having problems with your wisdom teeth.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth (or third molars) are the final teeth to emerge. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one at each corner of the mouth. They usually grow through in your late teens or twenties and as they emerge you may experience an occasional tenderness similar to the experience babies have when they’re teething.

What problems can occur with wisdom teeth?

For most people, wisdom teeth arrive without much fuss. But some wisdom teeth arrive crooked, and some only partially arrive, often because there isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate all the teeth.

These wisdom teeth are known as impacted.

My wisdom teeth are impacted. Do I need them removed?

Not necessarily. When you visit our Bristol dental practice we’ll look at your wisdom teeth as a natural part of every check-up. Provided they’re not causing you any discomfort, and provided you (or we) are able to clean them sufficiently to avoid tooth decay, there should be no need to remove them.

If, however, you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, or if the position of your wisdom teeth increases the risk of tooth decay, you may have to have the tooth/teeth removed.

What happens if I need a tooth extraction?

We do carry out tooth extractions at our Bristol dental practice, and usually these would involve the use of a local anaesthetic. Some wisdom teeth are more difficult to remove and extraction may require a general anaesthetic. If that is the case, you would have this at your local hospital.

Make your appointment

If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, please book your appointment with your Bristol dental practice using the form on the right, or call us on 0117 958 68 78.