Wisdom Teeth

What is Wisdom Teeth ?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge in the back corners of the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although the timing can vary from person to person.

Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, wisdom teeth often cause problems due to their late eruption, limited space in the jaw, and their position at the back of the mouth, which makes them difficult to clean properly. In many cases, wisdom teeth may need to be removed to prevent or address various dental issues, including:

1. Impaction: When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to fully emerge, they may become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
2. Crowding: Wisdom teeth can cause crowding or misalignment of the other teeth as they try to emerge, leading to bite problems and orthodontic issues.
3. Infection and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth that only partially emerge through the gums can create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection and gum disease.
4. Decay: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean effectively. As a result, they are more prone to decay and cavities.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Problems:

Some common signs and symptoms that may indicate problems with wisdom teeth include:

1. Pain or Discomfort: Pain or tenderness in the back of the mouth, particularly around the area where the wisdom teeth are erupting.
2. Swelling and Redness: Swelling and redness of the gums in the back of the mouth.
3. Difficulty Opening the Mouth: Difficulty opening the mouth fully due to swelling or pain.
4. Jaw Stiffness: Stiffness or soreness in the jaw muscles, especially when chewing or opening the mouth.
5. Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth may indicate infection or decay around the wisdom teeth.

Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Removal:

1. Evaluation: Your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your mouth and may take X-rays to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if they need to be removed.
2. Anesthesia: Wisdom teeth removal is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area around the teeth. In some cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used to keep you comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.
3. Extraction: The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth and may need to remove bone to extract the tooth. If the tooth is impacted, it may need to be divided into sections for easier removal.
4. Stitching: After the tooth is removed, the incision may be stitched closed to promote healing.
5. Recovery: You’ll be given instructions for caring for the extraction site and managing any discomfort or swelling following the procedure. Most people recover fully within a few days to a week after wisdom teeth removal.

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and most people experience minimal pain and discomfort afterward. However, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. If you’re experiencing symptoms of wisdom teeth problems, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, it’s essential to see your dentist for evaluation and treatment.