Advanced Wisdom Tooth Removal for North London Patients

You do not always need to remove wisdom teeth. If you have symptoms it is time to be assessed. Impaction is the most common reason, where there is not enough room for the tooth to grow properly. About 70% of people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. This can lead to pericoronitis, a painful gum infection over the tooth that causes swelling and a stiff jaw. You should also book a consultation if you have persistent jaw pain, see cysts around the tooth on an x-ray, or if the tooth is causing decay or damage to the neighbouring molar. Our North London clinic offers same day assessments for urgent cases during office hours.

Our process is focused on comfort and safety. First there is a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan. This scan gives a detailed map of the tooth, its roots and how close it sits to important nerves, which helps in complex cases. Next comes the removal, which typically takes 45 to 90 minutes and uses a strong local anaesthetic so you feel pressure but no pain. For more complex extractions the gum is gently lifted and the tooth may be split for easier removal. Finally the site is stitched and we arrange a follow up in 1 to 2 weeks to check healing and remove non dissolvable stitches if needed.

A 28 year old marketing professional from Islington came to us with severe pain and swelling from a partially erupted lower wisdom tooth. A 3D CBCT scan showed it was horizontally impacted and pressing on the adjacent molar, causing an infection. We planned a 75 minute surgical extraction. The procedure went smoothly and with proper aftercare the patient was back to work with limited discomfort in three days. This shows how precise imaging can prevent problems.

A 19 year old student from Barnet was advised to have all four wisdom teeth removed before starting university to prevent future issues. Although they were not painful yet, scans showed all four were impacted. We carried out the extractions in one 90 minute session. By being proactive, she avoided a painful dental emergency during her studies and healed fully over the summer break.

Care after the procedure helps a smooth recovery. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. Start with soft foods like soup, yogurt and smoothies and avoid hot drinks. From day two you can begin gentle warm salt water rinses to clean the area. Most swelling and discomfort ease within 3 to 7 days. Avoid heavy exercise, smoking, and drinking through a straw for the first week to prevent dislodging the blood clot and the risk of dry socket. If you have increasing severe pain after day 4, a high fever, or persistent bleeding, call the practice during office hours. For emergencies outside of hours you should go to A&E or call 111.

Full extraction is not always required. If your wisdom teeth are not causing symptoms, fully erupted, and not creating issues, watchful waiting with regular checkups may be best. For high risk lower wisdom teeth where the roots wrap around the jaw nerve, a coronectomy can be an option. This removes only the crown and leaves the roots to reduce nerve damage. It works in specific cases. During your consultation at our Finchley practice we will discuss all suitable options so you can make an informed choice.

Private wisdom tooth removal costs depend on the complexity of the extraction, such as whether the tooth is impacted or needs a surgical approach. You will receive a clear fixed price after your initial consultation and 3D scan. Our pricing is transparent with no hidden fees. We operate as a private practice and do not offer NHS services. We accept several major dental plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team will help you understand your coverage and handle any necessary paperwork.

To choose what is right for you, ask the right questions at any practice you visit. Whether you come to us or another dentist in North London, consider asking how many complex wisdom tooth extractions you perform each year, whether you use 3D CBCT planning for impacted teeth, if the quoted price covers the consultation, scans and follow up, what the specific risks are in your case based on the scan, what pain management options you provide during and after the procedure, and what the plan is if a complication arises.