Buried & Impacted Tooth Extractions for Muswell Hill Patients

A buried tooth, or impacted tooth, has not fully emerged through the gums. This is common with wisdom teeth, which affect about a quarter of adults, but can involve other teeth such as canines. You should book an assessment if you have pain at the back of the mouth, recurring gum infections, or cysts. Often our Muswell Hill patients need an impacted wisdom tooth removed before starting Invisalign or a fixed brace. A prompt assessment can prevent damage to nearby teeth and avoid bigger problems later.

The treatment starts with a 60 minute consultation and a detailed 3D CBCT scan. This scan shows the tooth position relative to nerves and other roots, helping us plan for safety. The extraction typically takes 60 to 90 minutes and is done under local anaesthetic, so you will feel pressure but not pain. We make a small gum incision to access the tooth, which may come out in one piece or be sectioned to spare surrounding bone. After removal, the area is cleaned and stitches are placed to promote healing. You receive full aftercare instructions before you leave. A Muswell Hill patient recently had an impacted wisdom tooth lying horizontally; the 3D scan helped us plan to avoid nerve issues.

Proper aftercare supports a smooth recovery. For the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort, helped by over the counter pain relief. A soft diet of soup, yogurt, and smoothies is advised for the first few days. Avoid heavy activity for at least 48 hours. Most swelling and discomfort peak around day three and then ease. Keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water starting the day after the procedure. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice on 0203 488 0335 during office hours if you have increasing pain after day four, uncontrolled bleeding, fever, or pus from the socket. For emergencies outside hours, go to A and E or call 111.

If the 3D scan shows the roots of a wisdom tooth wrap around the main nerve in the jaw, a coronectomy may be safer. This means removing only the crown and leaving the roots to reduce nerve damage. This is a highly specific option for high risk cases.

For some impacted teeth, especially canines, extraction is not the only option. One alternative is to surgically uncover the tooth and attach a small bracket. An orthodontist can then use braces to guide the tooth into its correct position. This preserves a healthy tooth but usually takes longer, about 12 to 24 months.

To feel confident about your treatment, whether with us or another practice near Muswell Hill, you can ask these questions: Do you use a 3D CBCT scan to plan buried tooth extractions? How many surgical extractions like mine do you perform each month? Is the quoted price inclusive of the consultation, scan, and follow up visits? What are the specific risks in my case based on the scan? If stitches are placed, will they dissolve or need removal? What are my options for pain management after the procedure?

The price for a buried tooth extraction is higher than a simple extraction due to its surgical nature and the need for advanced imaging. Costs depend on complexity, tooth location, and time required. After your consultation and 3D scan at our Finchley practice, we will provide a detailed treatment plan and a fixed quote with no hidden fees. As a private practice, NHS treatment is not available. We do accept several private plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please have your policy details ready so we can help you understand what is covered.