They are known as third molars. They are located in the back of the mouth, and used for most of our chewing. Wisdom teeth usually emerge from the gum line (a process called eruption) when a person is between the ages of seventeen and twenty-one. The problem is, there is often too little room. Consequently, eruption causes impaction, a situation in which the back molars are angled incorrectly, and fail to fully erupt. This can lead to a number of dental and facial problems. Extraction is usually recommended.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the reasons wisdom teeth are removed. We’ll then describe the procedure, step by step. How Much Does A Dental Exam Cost In Ontario You’ll also learn what to expect while recovering, including how to care for the site of extraction following surgery.
Reasons That Warrant Wisdom Teeth Removal
Impaction can lead to oral pain, swelling in the face, and infection along the gumline. When these symptoms display, dentists will recommend having the offending wisdom teeth removed. But even if these signs are nonexistent, impacted third molars can cause other problems.
For example, once they erupt, they can cause shifting in other teeth since space is so limited. This can change the patient’s bite, and make chewing uncomfortable. Impaction may also contribute to weakening of the jaw bone.
Another problem involves decay. Wisdom teeth that have only partially erupted may be difficult to keep clean. This allows plaque and tarter to accumulate, and bacteria to flourish. Cavities are common in such cases.
Each of these reasons alone is enough to warrant extraction of the third molars. This may be done by a general dentist or an oral surgeon depending on the circumstances.
The Procedure Explained
When wisdom teeth have fully erupted, their extraction is relatively simple, and can be performed by most experienced dentists. When they are only partially erupted or still buried beneath the gumline, surgery is more complex. An oral surgeon’s specialized training may be required.
Once x-rays are taken, a local anesthetic is delivered through injection to the target area. Partial or full sedation is usually made available when patients insist on it.
If the tooth has not fully erupted, the dentist will need to cut into the gumline to access it. An incision is made, and the gums are pulled back from the molar. Even if the tooth has already fully emerged from the gums, small incisions may still be necessary to provide added space for extraction.
The dentist cuts away the surrounding tissue, and slowly works loose the exposed tooth. In some cases, he or she may need to extract the tooth in pieces since it may otherwise break apart during surgery.
Once the wisdom tooth has been extracted, stitches are usually applied to help the wound heal. If the wound is minimal, the dentist may decide stitches are unnecessary. The patient is then given post-extraction instructions, and released to complete his or her recovery at home.
Recovering Following Extraction Of Your Wisdom Teeth
Bleeding is common, and can be managed with oral gauze. If bleeding continues at the site of extraction for longer than twenty-four hours, contact your dentist.
There will also be a degree of local swelling and minor bruising, both of which may persist for a week or slightly longer. Both are normal. If either lasts longer than two weeks, inform your dental practitioner.
You’ll receive a prescription for pain medications that can help minimize your discomfort following surgery. If the wisdom tooth was fully erupted, and thus could Do Dental Savings Plans Work be removed with few incisions, you may only need these drugs for one or two days. If surgery was more involved, a longer prescription may be necessary.
Your dentist will instruct you regarding how to brush, floss, and rinse during your recovery. As a rule, doing any of these activities vigorously is strongly discouraged. Mouthwash should also be avoided. In most cases, you can expect to resume your normal routine within two or three days.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure, and warranted for most people. If you suspect your third molars are causing a problem, ask your dentist whether removing them is necessary.