What are wisdom teeth and why are they often removed?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some grow in without issue, many cause problems due to lack of space in the mouth. They may become impacted, cause pain, swelling, or infection, and can lead to crowding, decay, or jaw damage. Not all wisdom teeth require removal, but if they are causing discomfort or potential complications, early assessment and treatment is often the best option.
Signs you might need your wisdom teeth removed
If you’re in your late teens or early adulthood and noticing changes at the back of your mouth, it might be time to take a closer look. Wisdom teeth often try to emerge where there simply isn’t enough room, leading to discomfort, inflammation, or pressure on nearby teeth. Sometimes, the signs are subtle. Other times, they’re hard to ignore.
Common signs include:
- Persistent or occasional pain at the back of the mouth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Jaw stiffness or discomfort
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Unpleasant taste or bad breath
- Recurring infections in the gum near your wisdom tooth
- Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, a timely dental assessment can make all the difference. At Plaza Dental, we’ll guide you through your options with care, helping you protect your comfort and long-term oral health.
From problem wisdom teeth to a comfortable recovery
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Comprehensive assessment
We will examine your teeth and gums and take digital X-rays to check the position of your wisdom teeth. This helps us identify if they are impacted, infected, or likely to cause problems down the track.
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Personalised treatment plan
We will discuss whether extraction is recommended and help you understand what to expect. In some cases, wisdom teeth can be removed easily here at Plaza Dental. For more complex cases, we may refer you to a trusted specialist to ensure the safest care.
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Gentle extraction
If your wisdom teeth are to be removed at our clinic, we will ensure you are comfortable with the help of local anaesthetic. For anxious patients or those with more complex needs, we may discuss additional sedation options. Our team will carry out the extraction carefully to minimise discomfort and promote smooth healing.
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Aftercare and recovery
After your extraction, we will provide clear aftercare instructions to help you recover comfortably. This includes advice on managing swelling, avoiding certain foods, and keeping the area clean. We will also arrange a follow-up if needed to ensure you are healing well.
Our team will support you through the entire process, helping you feel informed, comfortable, and cared for.
Love notes from Mackay residents
The kind words shared by our community mean the world to us, and remind us why we love what we do!
Kaveet is a very good dentist he takes the time to explain everything in detail. And his assistant work in well with him
Clayt B.
Awesome staff and comfortable experience.
Brody F.
Brilliant practice, highly professional and compassionate Dentists and staff.
Christine R.
Great friendly service as always. I have been a patient here for the past 15 years, and have always had a positive experience.
Brett M.
The young dentist I saw was very professional ???? She showed good skills and was very gentle.
Di F.
The staff at Plaza Dental were friendly and very professional which my made my trip to the dentist quite enjoyable.
Debbie P.
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Frequently asked questions
What happens if I leave problematic wisdom teeth untreated?
If left untreated, problematic wisdom teeth can lead to infections, cysts, damage to neighbouring teeth, and even jaw pain or stiffness. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause repeated gum infections, affecting both your oral health and overall well-being. Early removal often prevents these complications and helps avoid more complex procedures later.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, not always. Some wisdom teeth grow in without causing any issues. We only recommend removal when they are impacted, causing pain, or likely to cause problems in the future. We will always assess your situation individually and explain all your options.
How long is the recovery after wisdom teeth removal?
Most people recover within a week, although healing times vary depending on how many teeth were removed and whether they were impacted. Swelling usually peaks around day two or three, then gradually improves. We will give you personalised aftercare instructions to help you heal comfortably and safely.
Why Mackay families choose Plaza Dental
A legacy of care
Founded in 1984, Plaza Dental began as a convenient branch for patients north of the Pioneer River and has served the Mt Pleasant community ever since.
More than 125 clinical years of experience
What started as a small practice has grown into a thriving team of 6 dentists, an Oral Health Therapist, and support staff, delivering care in a modern, friendly environment.
Prevention comes first
We believe in stopping problems before they start. Our focus on prevention helps patients protect their smiles for life.
Restoring long-term health
For patients with complex dental histories, our experienced team is here to restore health and help maintain it long term.
Complete care
From preventive care to full-mouth rehabilitation, we offer a wide range of treatments under one roof—including implants, Invisalign, and oral surgery.
Experience you can trust
With decades of experience and a commitment to high standards, Plaza Dental continues to deliver personalised care tailored to every stage of your dental journey.
Flexible payment plans for the whole family
We offer flexible payment options to make caring for your smile simpler and more manageable, no matter which treatment you choose.
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Gentle, experienced wisdom teeth care for Mackay families
At Plaza Dental, we make wisdom tooth removal as straightforward and supportive as possible. Our experienced team will take the time to explain the process clearly, keep you comfortable during treatment, and guide you through your recovery.
Whether you are experiencing discomfort now or want to be proactive about potential problems, we are here to help you protect your smile for the long term.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
