Wisdom tooth removal under general anaesthesia

Wisdom teeth (third molars) often appear between the ages of 16 and 25. Because of a lack of space, they frequently remain trapped in the bone or gum (impacted teeth) or grow at an angle. They can then cause infections, pain, decay in the neighbouring tooth, or interfere with orthodontic treatment. When several teeth need to be removed, when they are deeply impacted or when the patient is very anxious, the extraction can be carried out in the operating theatre under general anaesthesia: all four teeth are then removed in a single session. The surgeon opens the gum, removes a little bone around the tooth if needed, sometimes divides the tooth into several pieces to take it out more easily, then closes with a few stitches. Extraction is offered when there are symptoms or complications, or as a preventive measure when the teeth will not be able to come through normally. The decision is based on the examination and a panoramic X-ray, sometimes completed by a 3D scan showing the position of the roots in relation to the nerve of the lower jaw. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, wisdom tooth removal under general anaesthesia is performed in the operating theatre by maxillofacial surgeons or dental surgeons specialising in oral surgery, usually as a day case.