Expert Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth in North London

An impacted wisdom tooth lacks enough room to grow properly, so it may tilt or stay stuck. Seek an assessment if you have persistent jaw pain, red or swollen gums at the back of the mouth, trouble opening your jaw, or a bad taste or smell. Many patients from North London come to us after noticing food trapped behind the last molar, which can lead to decay or infection such as pericoronitis. A 3D scan at our Finchley clinic can confirm if the tooth is impacted and help us decide the best next step before the problem worsens.

Begin with a 60 minute consultation. We examine you and take a 3D CBCT scan. Unlike 2D X-rays, this scan gives a clear view of the tooth relative to nerves and the jawbone, which matters for complex cases. We explain what we find and outline your treatment plan. For example, a recent patient from Highgate had a wisdom tooth growing horizontally toward other teeth. The 3D scan helped us plan the extraction to avoid nerve contact and ensure a safe procedure.

The surgery usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic, so you feel pressure but not pain. We may make a small incision in the gum to reach the tooth, and we might divide the tooth into pieces for easier removal. Afterward, the site is cleaned and stitched, often with dissolvable stitches. We keep you comfortable throughout and give detailed aftercare instructions before you go home.

Good aftercare helps a smooth recovery. Days 1 to 3 bring swelling and discomfort, managed with ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Eat soft foods such as soups, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid hot drinks, smoking, and using a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot and dry socket. Days 4 to 7 swelling and pain should ease. You can add more solid foods as you feel comfortable. Rinse gently with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean. Red flags: call during office hours if you have severe or increasing pain after day 3, a fever, or pus at the extraction site. For emergencies after hours go to A&E or call 111.

In some cases, alternatives exist. Coronectomy may be advised if the 3D scan shows roots very close to the main nerve in the jaw. This procedure removes only the crown and leaves the roots, reducing nerve risk. Watchful waiting is another option when the tooth causes no symptoms, with regular checkups and X-rays. But be aware that this could allow future problems like cysts, decay, or infection.

Private removal costs in London vary with the level of impaction. After your consultation and 3D CBCT, we offer a clear fixed price with no hidden fees. A simple extraction is less complex than a surgical one. We are private-only and do not offer NHS services. We do accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation.

To make an informed choice about your care, whether with us or another North London practice, here are important questions to ask: Based on my X-ray, how complex is my extraction? Do you use 3D CBCT to check nerve proximity? What are the specific risks in my case and how will you manage them? What does your fee cover, including consultation, scans, and follow-ups? What is your experience with cases like mine? Will I need stitches and will they be dissolvable?