Wisdom Teeth Extraction for North Finchley Patients

You should seek an assessment for wisdom tooth extraction if you have symptoms that signal a problem. These include persistent pain or a dull ache at the back of your jaw, recurrent infections of the gum tissue around the tooth (pericoronitis), or cysts forming. An impacted tooth, growing at an angle and pressing on your other teeth, can cause damage, crowding, or decay. Many patients from North Finchley visit us when cleaning is hard in that area, leading to gum inflammation or cavities. An OPG X-ray or a 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice can confirm whether extraction is the best option.

First, you'll have a 30-minute consultation during which we take digital X-rays to assess the tooth's position. We'll discuss findings and the plan with you. The extraction itself typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes and uses a strong local anaesthetic to numb the area. For a simple extraction, the tooth is loosened and removed. For an impacted tooth, a small incision is made in the gum to access and remove it, sometimes in sections. You will feel pressure but not pain. Afterwards, the site is cleaned, and we may place dissolvable stitches to aid healing. We provide detailed aftercare instructions before you leave.

Your recovery timeline matters. In the first 24 hours expect some minor bleeding and plan to rest. Eat soft foods like soup or yogurt. Swelling and discomfort peak around 48 to 72 hours and can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and an ice pack on the cheek for 15 minutes at a time. Avoid strenuous activity, smoking, and drinking through a straw for the first week to protect the healing blood clot. Most people return to normal activities within a few days. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice on 0203 488 0335 during office hours (Mon Wed Fri 9-5, Tue Thu 11-7) if you have severe throbbing pain after day 4, excessive bleeding that won't stop, or a fever. For out-of-hours emergencies, call 111 or visit A&E.

Extraction is not always necessary. Watchful waiting: If the tooth causes no pain or crowding and can be cleaned easily, we may monitor with regular checkups and X-rays. Operculectomy: For recurrent gum infections from a flap of gum over the tooth, we can remove this tissue in a minor procedure. This can relieve symptoms and improve hygiene, potentially delaying or avoiding extraction. We'll discuss options based on your clinical situation.

To make an informed choice, whether you see us or another practice in North Finchley, consider these key questions: How does the total cost break down, and does it cover the consultation, X-rays, extraction, and follow-up visits? Based on your X-ray, is this a simple or a surgical extraction? What are the specific risks in your case, such as proximity to nerves? Will you need dissolvable stitches? How much time should you plan off work or study for recovery? Do they offer same-day appointments for severe pain?

As a fully private practice, we provide clear, transparent pricing. A consultation and assessment including any necessary X-rays is quoted before your visit. The cost for the extraction itself depends on the complexity. A simple extraction is typically less expensive than a surgical extraction for an impacted tooth. A full, personalised treatment plan with all costs will be provided after your initial assessment. There are no hidden fees. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment so we can assist with any claims.