Wisdom Tooth in Geneva: Extraction, Pain and Recovery

Wisdom teeth are a problem for most adults. They appear between the ages of 17 and 25. They often lack space. The result: pain, infection, displacement of other teeth.

In Geneva, wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common dental surgery procedures. Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries carries out this intervention every week. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a wisdom tooth?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars. These are the last teeth to grow. Each adult can have up to four. Some have none. Others have one or two.

These teeth are located at the very back of the mouth. Their position makes brushing difficult. They are therefore more vulnerable to cavities and infections.

Why should wisdom teeth be extracted?

The extraction is not systematic. It is necessary in several specific cases.

Impacted tooth. The tooth remains stuck in the bone or under the gum. It never breaks through. It can cause chronic pain and damage the roots of neighboring teeth.

Semi-impacted tooth. The tooth is partially erupted. The gum still covers part of the crown. This creates a pocket where bacteria accumulate. Recurrent infections are common. We are talking about pericoronitis.

Lack of space. The jaw is too small. The wisdom tooth grows against the second molar. It can move other teeth and compromise orthodontic treatment.

Deep decay. The backward position of the tooth makes care difficult. Extraction is often more reasonable than a complex restoration on a difficult-to-access tooth.

How does the extraction take place in Geneva?

At Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries, the protocol is precise.

Step 1: Diagnosis. A panoramic x-ray or 3D scanner (CBCT) allows you to visualize the exact position of the tooth, its roots, and its proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve. This diagnosis is essential.

Step 2: Anesthesia. The procedure is done under local anesthesia. You do not feel any pain during the extraction. For anxious patients, conscious sedation may be offered.

Step 3: Extraction. If the tooth has already erupted, extraction is simple. The dentist uses a forceps to remove it. If the tooth is impacted, an incision in the gum and sometimes reaming of the bone is necessary. The duration varies from 15 to 45 minutes per tooth.

Step 4: Sutures. Absorbable stitches are placed. They disappear on their own in 7 to 14 days.

Step 5: Post-operative instructions. You receive a prescription (painkiller, anti-inflammatory, mouthwash) and clear written instructions.

Pain after extraction: what to expect?

Post-operative pain is normal. It reaches its peak between 24 and 48 hours after the intervention. It then gradually decreases.

Prescribed painkillers are sufficient in the vast majority of cases. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the standard treatment. Opioids are rarely needed.

Cheek swelling is common. It is maximum on the third day. Applying ice for the first 24 hours helps limit it.

Recovery: how long?

Complete healing takes 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients return to normal activities after 2 to 3 days.

Days 1-2: Rest. Soft and cold food. No suction (straw, cigarette). Avoid physical exertion.

Days 3-7: Gradual return to normal diet. Gentle brushing around the area. Antiseptic mouthwash.

Days 7-14: Almost complete recovery. Check with the dentist if necessary.

Possible complications

Dry socket is the most common complication. The blood clot dislodges and leaves the bone exposed. It’s painful. This concerns approximately 5% of extractions. Smoking and taking oral contraceptives increase the risk.

Paresthesia (numbness of the lip or tongue) is rare. It occurs when the inferior alveolar nerve is very close to the root. The preliminary 3D scanner allows this risk to be assessed precisely.

Price of wisdom tooth extraction in Geneva

In Geneva, the price of a wisdom tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity.

• Simple extraction (pierced tooth): from 250 CHF per tooth
• Surgical extraction (tooth included): from 450 CHF per tooth
• Extraction of the 4 wisdom teeth: a package is generally offered

Basic insurance (LAMal) does not cover dental extractions except in cases of serious illness. Supplementary dental insurance partially covers the costs according to the contract.

At Studio Smile, a detailed quote is provided before any intervention. Payment in several installments is possible.

Should all 4 wisdom teeth be extracted at the same time?

It’s possible. Many patients prefer a single procedure to avoid repeating the experience. The overall recovery time is not significantly longer.

Others prefer to extract one side at a time. This allows eating from the non-operated side. The Studio Smile dental surgeon will advise you according to your situation.

FAQ

Does wisdom tooth extraction hurt? No during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Afterwards, moderate pain lasts 2 to 3 days. It is well controlled by prescribed painkillers.

How long does the procedure last? Between 15 and 45 minutes per tooth. The extraction of the 4 teeth takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

At what age should wisdom teeth be extracted? Extraction is easier between the ages of 17 and 25. The roots are not yet fully formed. But extraction is possible at any age if necessary.

Is extraction reimbursed in Geneva? LAMal basic insurance does not reimburse routine dental care. Only supplementary dental insurance can cover part of the costs. Check your contract.

Can we work the next day? Most patients take 1 to 2 days off. For a simple extraction of a single tooth, a return to work the next day is possible.

Do you need to extract your wisdom teeth? Make an appointment at Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries. Complete diagnosis, gentle intervention, personalized follow-up. Call us or book online at OneDoc.