When wisdom teeth are removed
Wisdom teeth often erupt only in adulthood and frequently find no space in the jaw. Removal is indicated when they become inflamed repeatedly, when decay develops that is hard to treat, when they are tilted and endanger neighbouring teeth, or when they remain entirely in the bone and cause problems. We clarify the reason before every procedure.
When they may stay
A wisdom tooth that has fully erupted, has an opposing tooth, finds enough space and can be cleaned well does not have to be removed. We do not remove preventively without an identifiable reason, but assess each tooth individually.
Imaging and planning
Before the procedure we assess the position of the roots by X-ray. If the tooth lies close to the nerve canal in the lower jaw or the sinus in the upper jaw, we clarify the situation with 3D imaging. This lets the risk be assessed before the procedure, not during treatment.
The procedure
Removal is done under local anaesthesia, sedation on request. A fully erupted tooth can usually be removed directly. A displaced tooth or one lying in the bone has to be exposed surgically. Such complex cases are treated by Dr. Dragisic, specialist in oral surgery, in Zurich Bellevue.
After the procedure
In the first hours you cool the cheek and protect the wound. On the first day, avoid rinsing, smoking and physical exertion so the blood clot can stabilise. Soft food and restraint with very hot dishes support healing. You receive written instructions for this.
Complex cases
Displaced, impacted or particularly nerve-close wisdom teeth belong in specialist hands. In oral surgery in Zurich Bellevue, such procedures are planned and carried out with the imaging and experience these cases require.
