Safe & Gentle Wisdom Tooth Extraction in East Finchley

Not every wisdom tooth needs removal. If problems arise, extraction is often advised. Book an assessment at our East Finchley practice if you notice a dull ache or sharp pain at the back of your mouth, swollen or bleeding gums around the tooth, or jaw stiffness. These signs often point to impaction, where there is not enough room for the tooth to emerge properly. This condition affects many adults. Another reason is pericoronitis, a painful infection of the gum flap over a partially erupted tooth. We also recommend extraction if the tooth sits badly and cleaning becomes impossible, which raises the risk of decay in the wisdom tooth or the adjacent molar.

Your treatment is designed for safety and comfort. First, you have a 60 minute consultation with a detailed 3D CBCT scan. This scan shows the exact position of the tooth roots in relation to nerves such as the inferior alveolar nerve. On the day of the procedure we numb the area with a strong local anaesthetic. You will feel pressure but should not feel pain. The extraction itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. For an impacted tooth the procedure involves a small gum incision and removing the tooth in sections to limit trauma. Finally we place dissolvable stitches to help the gum heal and you will receive full aftercare instructions.

Proper aftercare supports a smooth recovery. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort which you can manage with over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Follow a soft food plan such as soup, yoghurt, and smoothies, and avoid hot drinks. A recent patient from the area had an impacted lower wisdom tooth removed on a Thursday and was able to return to lectures by Monday. From day two begin gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours and do not smoke, as this raises the risk of a painful complication called dry socket. Red flags during office hours are severe pain that worsens after day three, fever or feeling unwell, pus or a foul taste from the site, and bleeding that does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure.

While extraction is common, it is not the only option. If the 3D scan shows the roots are closely linked to the nerve, a Coronectomy may be safer. This procedure removes only the crown of the tooth and leaves the roots to avoid nerve damage. Another option is Watchful Waiting. If your wisdom teeth show no symptoms, are fully erupted, and you can clean them well, we may simply monitor them during routine check ups. We will discuss the best choice for your clinical situation, weighing risks and benefits.

As a private practice we provide clear upfront cost estimates. The price depends on complexity. A simple extraction of an erupted tooth starts at £250, while a complex surgical extraction for an impacted tooth can run from £450 upward. The final fee, given after your consultation and 3D scan, covers the procedure, local anaesthetic, and any follow up appointments. There are no hidden fees. For example, a Finchley patient with a deeply impacted tooth required a surgical extraction costing £550. We accept private dental insurance from providers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please have your policy details ready so we can help you understand your coverage.

To make an informed choice about your care here or at another North London practice, consider asking these questions: Based on your X ray or 3D scan, is this a simple or a surgical extraction? What are the specific risks in your case, such as proximity to nerves? Is the quoted price all inclusive, covering the scan, the procedure, and follow ups? What type of anaesthetic will be used? How much time should you plan off work or studies for recovery? What is the plan if a complication like a dry socket occurs?