Introduction:
Wisdom teeth can be a pain, quite literally. These teeth are the final set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While they can be useful in the early years for chewing coarse foods, they can also create various issues in the later years. Hence, it is important to deal with them cautiously. In this article, we’ll present a complete guide to dealing with wisdom teeth, covering everything from what they are and what problems they can cause to options for extraction and recovery.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the back of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth – two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. These teeth can grow sideways, partially, or fully and become impacted. This misalignment and impaction may lead to various complications.
Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth:
Impacted wisdom teeth may cause a variety of problems, including:
Pain and Discomfort:
Wisdom teeth that are partially or fully impacted can cause pain, which can be sharp and severe, especially while eating or talking.
Crowding:
Wisdom teeth can cause crowding and misalignment of the other teeth, leading to further dental problems.
Gum Infection:
If gum tissue grows over a partially erupted tooth, it can create a flap that can trap food and cause an infection.
Tooth Decay:
Wisdom teeth are harder to reach and clean, so bacteria may grow on them, causing tooth decay.
Cysts and Tumours:
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumours that damage other teeth, nerves, or bones.
When Do You Need to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth removal can be either preventive or necessary. A dental visit will determine the state of the wisdom teeth. The following are some scenarios where a dentist may suggest removing wisdom teeth:
Overcrowding:
If your wisdom teeth are causing overcrowding or pushing nearby teeth, your dentist may recommend extraction.
Pain and Infection:
If your wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, swelling, or stiffness in your jaw or neck, removal may be necessary.
Cysts and Tumours:
If an X-ray reveals a cyst or tumour, your dentist may recommend extraction to prevent or manage these growths.
Dental Decay:
A dentist may suggest extraction if the wisdom teeth are decayed and causing damage to adjacent teeth.
What Are the Treatment Options for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
There are two primary ways to remove wisdom teeth: simple extraction and surgical extraction. Simple extraction is performed in a dental office, and the tooth is removed using forceps after numbing the area with local anaesthesia. Surgical extraction is usually done in an oral surgeon’s office under general anaesthesia or sedation, and requires an incision in the gum to remove the tooth.
Recovery from Wisdom Teeth Removal:
Recovery from wisdom teeth extraction can take several days to a week. Here are some tips for managing pain and promoting healing:
Ice packs:
Applying ice packs to the cheeks can help reduce swelling.
Soft Foods:
Eat soft foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies for a few days.
Pain Relievers:
Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort.
Oral Hygiene:
Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater to keep the extraction site clean.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, wisdom teeth can create various complications that require cautious treatment. It is important to see a dentist regularly to monitor wisdom tooth growth and avoid problems. Extraction is necessary in certain cases and can be managed with proper aftercare. Regular dental check-ups, along with thorough hygiene and care, can ensure healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime.
