Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to develop and usually erupt in the late teens or early 20s. They are located at the back of the mouth, one set on each side, and are often the subject of much discussion. While some people are lucky enough to have enough room for their wisdom teeth to grow in properly, others might not be so fortunate.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort with your wisdom teeth, or if your dentist has informed you that you’ll need to have them extracted, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about wisdom teeth extraction.
Why are wisdom teeth extracted?
Wisdom teeth are often extracted due to their potential to cause complications or dental problems. Some of the most common reasons for wisdom teeth extraction include:
1. Impacted wisdom teeth: This happens when the teeth are unable to emerge from the gums or have emerged at a very odd angle. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
2. Crowding: If the mouth isn’t large enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth, they can force the other teeth to shift, causing crowding and misalignment. This can result in crooked teeth, difficulty with cleaning and maintaining good oral hygiene, and an increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease.
3. Gum disease and cavities: Wisdom teeth are often located at the back of the mouth making them difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. This can make them more prone to gum disease and cavities, which can be painful and can lead to other dental problems.
What happens during wisdom teeth extraction?
Before the extraction procedure starts, you will be given an anesthetic to numb the area where the wisdom teeth will be removed. If you prefer additional sedation, such as conscious sedation or general anesthesia, talk to your dentist beforehand about your options and the costs involved.
During the procedure, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone, and then remove any bone blocking access to the root of the tooth. Then, the wisdom tooth will be slowly rocked back and forth until it comes loose from the jawbone. In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into sections to make the removal process easier.
Once the tooth has been removed, your dentist will clean the area and stitch the incision to promote healing. A gauze pad will be placed over the surgical site to help stop any bleeding.
What can you expect after the procedure?
Immediately following the wisdom teeth extraction, you’ll likely experience some discomfort and swelling, but this should last only a few days. Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions regarding how to take care of the surgical site, including which foods to eat and which activities to avoid.
It’s important to follow these instructions closely to avoid complications such as dry socket, an infection that occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has fully healed. Symptoms of dry socket include severe pain, a bad taste in your mouth, and foul-smelling breath.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that can help alleviate pain and prevent dental complications. By understanding the reasons behind wisdom teeth removal, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can approach the process with confidence and ease. Always speak to your dentist about any concerns or questions you may have and follow their instructions closely to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
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