Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal for Barnet Patients

Not every wisdom tooth needs removal. Seek an assessment if you have clear symptoms. Pericoronitis is the typical reason for extraction; it happens when the gum flap over a partially erupted tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Schedule a consultation if you have persistent jaw pain behind the back teeth, swelling in the gums or cheek, or trouble opening your mouth. A foul taste or smell can signal infection. For many Barnet patients, coming to our Finchley clinic is the first step toward relief from these painful symptoms.

We start with a 45 minute consultation. We take a digital X-ray or a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth and its nearby nerves. This imaging is essential for a safe extraction. The removal is done under local anaesthetic so you will not feel pain. The procedure usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes, depending on how complex the impaction is. For a surgical extraction, we may need a small gum incision to reach the tooth, and we might cut the tooth into pieces. Afterward we clean the site and place dissolvable stitches to help healing. We will give you clear aftercare instructions before you go home.

Expect swelling and moderate soreness. Take ibuprofen or paracetamol before the numbness wears off. Use an ice pack on your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 off to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods like soups, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and smoking because they can dislodge the blood clot needed for healing, a dry socket. Some light oozing is normal; bite gently on the provided gauze if this happens.

Swelling should lessen and pain should drop each day. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean. Stick to soft foods and gradually add firmer items as you feel able. Avoid strenuous exercise for a week. Most people can return to work or normal activities after 3-4 days. Red flags: call during office hours if you have severe increasing pain after day 3, a high temperature, persistent bleeding, or a bad taste suggesting infection. For emergencies outside hours, visit A&E or call 111.

While removal is often the best option for symptomatic impacted teeth, there are alternatives. If the tooth is impacted but not causing issues, watchful waiting with regular monitoring may work. If the roots lie very close to the sensory nerve in the jaw, a coronectomy might be advised. This procedure removes only the crown, leaving the roots to reduce the risk of nerve damage. In very complex cases, such as a tooth deeply embedded in the jawbone, we may refer you to a hospital-based oral surgeon. We discuss all suitable options during your consultation.

The cost for impacted wisdom tooth removal is higher than for a simple extraction because of the surgery. Prices start around £450 to £650 per tooth in London, depending on complexity. Our fee covers the initial assessment, all X-rays or 3D scans, the procedure, and a follow-up appointment. There are no hidden charges. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS services, but we accept private dental insurance from providers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We provide a detailed treatment plan and cost breakdown after your first visit.

To feel confident about your treatment at our practice or another Barnet area clinic, consider these questions: How many complex wisdom tooth extractions do you perform each month? Based on my 3D scan, what are the specific risks, such as nerve proximity? Will I need stitches and will they be dissolvable? What is the total cost, including the consultation, scans, and follow-up care? What aftercare support do you provide if I have concerns during recovery? Asking these questions helps you pick the right provider for your needs.