When there isn't enough room, wisdom teeth can get stuck under the gum, come through only partway, or grow at an angle that pushes against other teeth. Removing them early can prevent pain, infection and damage to healthy teeth nearby.
Even if you're not experiencing major problems now, removal can help prevent more significant issues in the future. Wisdom teeth removal services are available to patients across Sydney, including Parramatta and surrounding areas. If you're experiencing discomfort or have been advised to have your wisdom teeth assessed, contact us to arrange a consultation.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to emerge, typically surfacing between the ages of 17 and 25. In some people these teeth come through the gums fully; in others they emerge partially or not at all. There are cases where wisdom teeth do not appear at all.
For many people, the eruption of wisdom teeth causes no complications. However, a significant number of people experience impacted wisdom teeth. This occurs when there is insufficient space in the mouth for the teeth to come through properly.
Impacted wisdom teeth can grow in various ways, including:
Understanding these patterns of emergence helps in making informed decisions about treatment options.
Many people notice changes in their mouth when wisdom teeth begin to cause trouble. Common symptoms include jaw pain, swelling, tenderness, difficulty opening the mouth, or an unpleasant taste caused by infection. Some patients develop gum inflammation or repeated infections around partially erupted wisdom teeth. Left untreated, these symptoms can worsen, which makes timely assessment important.
Book an appointment and we will assess your wisdom teeth using a clinical examination and X-rays, to determine whether removal is necessary and to plan the procedure. This helps establish the position of your wisdom teeth, their roots, and any risk factors unique to your situation.
The removal is performed as a day surgery under general anaesthesia, in an accredited hospital setting. Dr Irving uses modern, gentle techniques to remove the teeth efficiently while minimising trauma to surrounding tissues. Afterwards you'll receive detailed aftercare instructions to help manage discomfort and promote healing.
Attend your scheduled follow-up appointment so we can check your mouth is healing well and address any concerns. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, provided they follow proper oral care and the surgeon's advice.
Wisdom tooth removal is a standard procedure, and I take every measure to ensure your comfort throughout. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, so you are asleep and will not feel anything while I'm working. Afterwards, some discomfort and swelling are normal for a few days. Most people describe the pain as manageable with the help of prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief. If you follow the post-operative instructions carefully, you'll recover faster and with fewer complications. If your pain seems severe or lasts longer than expected, don't hesitate to get in touch — your well-being is my priority.
Dentists may be cautious about removing wisdom teeth for several reasons. Not all wisdom teeth need to come out — if they're healthy, fully erupted and easy to clean, removal isn't always necessary. However, if a tooth is impacted, infected, or likely to cause future problems, removal is often the best choice. Some extractions can be complex due to the position of the tooth or its proximity to nerves and sinuses, so your dentist may refer you to a specialist for your safety. My role is to assess your situation carefully and recommend the option with the lowest risk and the best long-term outcome.
It's very common for patients to report that day three is the most uncomfortable. The initial swelling and inflammation from the procedure tend to peak around the third day: the body's natural healing response ramps up, leading to more swelling, stiffness and sometimes increased pain compared with the first two days. This is normal and typically starts improving by day four or five. Staying on top of your pain relief and following the care instructions — ice packs, keeping your head elevated, sticking to soft foods — will make this phase easier to manage.
While wisdom tooth removal is generally safe and often necessary, as with any surgical procedure there are potential disadvantages and risks. These may include temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising, or limited mouth opening during recovery. In rare cases, complications such as infection, dry socket (where the blood clot is dislodged), nerve injury leading to numbness, or sinus issues (if upper teeth are involved) can occur. I always weigh the risks and benefits before recommending surgery, and minimise those risks through careful planning and clear aftercare guidance. If removal is advised, it's because the long-term benefits for your oral health outweigh the potential downsides.
Please use the following information as a general guideline. If you have any concerns after surgery, please get in touch with Dr Irving's office on (02) 9890 1822. Full instructions are on the post-operative care page.
You should reach out to your surgeon, general practitioner, or the nearest accident and emergency department if you experience any of the following:
Over 25 years in private practice, and a member of the professions that set the standard for oral & maxillofacial surgery.
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