Adult
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are a common topic of discussion in dental offices. Often the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth, these molars are surrounded by myths, fears, and a lot of curiosity. Understanding what wisdom teeth are, when and why they should be removed, and what to expect from the process can help demystify these often misunderstood teeth.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically develop in your late teens or early twenties. They are called “wisdom” teeth because they appear at a more mature age when people are presumably “wiser” than they were as children when other teeth emerged.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Not everyone faces issues with their wisdom teeth, but when problems do arise, they are often due to:
- Impaction: This occurs when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for the teeth to emerge properly, causing them to come in at an angle or only partially emerge.
- Crowding: Some people’s mouths are too small for four additional molars, leading to overcrowding and potential alignment issues.
- Difficulty Cleaning: Wisdom teeth can be hard to reach with a toothbrush and floss, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.
To Remove or Not to Remove
The decision to remove wisdom teeth often hinges on whether they are impacted or causing problems such as pain, infection, or crowding. Regular dental checkups and x-rays can help your dentist determine if your wisdom teeth are likely to cause issues. Some dentists recommend removing them as a preventive measure, even if they aren’t currently causing problems.
The Removal Process
Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure usually performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity. The process involves:
- Making an Incision: If the tooth is impacted, the oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
- Removing Bone: Any bone blocking access to the tooth root is removed.
- Tooth Extraction: The tooth may be removed whole or in pieces.
- Cleaning: The site of the removed tooth is cleaned of any debris.
- Stitching: The wound is stitched up to promote healing.
- Gauze: A gauze pad is placed over the surgical site to help stop bleeding.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery typically takes a few days. It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions, which may include:
- Taking prescribed painkillers.
- Resting and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days.
- Avoiding hard, crunchy, or very hot or cold foods.
- Not smoking, as it can slow healing.
- Gently rinsing with salt water after the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Potential Complications
Though rare, complications can include:
- Dry Socket: A painful condition where the blood clot at the surgical site is dislodged.
- Infection: Symptoms include fever, pain, and pus from the extraction site.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth or Nerves: This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain.
Schedule a Dental Exam
Wisdom teeth are a normal part of your dental anatomy, but they can sometimes cause discomfort and health issues. Regular dental visits are crucial to monitor the growth and impact of these third molars. Understanding the basics of wisdom teeth can prepare you for discussions with your dentist and help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Remember, each mouth is unique, and your dentist can provide the best advice on how to handle your wisdom teeth. Schedule an appointment with our Davie, Plantation, or Tamarac dentists today!
January 26, 2024