You only have one set of adult teeth, and they need to last until you are 80, 90, or beyond. The actions you take towards your teeth today will either benefit you or harm you in the future. Of course, good dental care starts with seeing a dentist regularly. You should go in for cleanings and checkups, and any other time you think something might be amiss with your teeth. Education is important when it comes to any aspect of your health, so start reading the articles on this website to educate yourself about dentists and dental care. We promise that when you're 80 and you still have your teeth, you won't regret the time spent.
The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog
Understanding Wisdom Teeth: What They Are and Why They Matter
Sofia Curtis
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars located at the back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two on the top and two on the bottom—but some may have fewer or none. While wisdom teeth were beneficial to our ancestors, changes in our diet and jaw size have made them less necessary. In many cases, the human jaw no longer has enough space to accommodate these additional teeth, leading to complications.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
One of the main issues with wisdom teeth is that they often do not have enough room to grow in properly. When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge fully, they may become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, pushing against adjacent teeth or remaining trapped below the gumline. This can lead to various complications, such as the following.
- Pain and Discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain in the jaw, gums, and surrounding teeth. This discomfort often increases as the teeth attempt to push through the gums.
- Infections and Inflammation: Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted or impacted can create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to gum infections and inflammation.
- Damage to Nearby Teeth: When wisdom teeth grow at an angle, they can press against neighboring molars, potentially damaging them or causing overcrowding.
- Cysts and Jaw Issues: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can form cysts, which may damage the jawbone or nearby nerves.
When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
Not everyone will need their wisdom teeth removed. Dentists and oral surgeons typically recommend extraction if the wisdom teeth are causing pain, infections, or other complications. Wisdom teeth removal is also advised if they are likely to cause problems in the future, even if they aren’t currently symptomatic. Dentists usually monitor the development of wisdom teeth through X-rays and examinations, determining if extraction is necessary based on the teeth’s position and potential for causing issues.
The Extraction Process
If removal is recommended, the procedure is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common outpatient procedure done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s comfort level. After the procedure, patients are given specific aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort. This includes using ice packs, avoiding certain foods, and taking prescribed medications for pain management.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery from wisdom teeth extraction usually takes a few days. During this period, patients may experience some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and proper aftercare. It is crucial to adhere to the dentist’s instructions to prevent complications such as dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, leaving the underlying bone and nerves exposed.
Contact a dental provider to learn more about wisdom teeth removal.
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