Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to come in. They often emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, and can cause discomfort and pain. If your dentist has recommended that you should have your wisdom teeth extracted, you may be wondering what to expect. In this article, we will delve into everything you need to know about four wisdom teeth extraction.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
One theory suggests that our early ancestors needed these extra molars to help them grind up tough, raw food. However, as our diets have evolved and our jaws have become smaller, wisdom teeth are now considered to be vestigial structures, meaning that they no longer serve any purpose.
Why Do We Need to Have Our Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Most people will need to have their wisdom teeth extracted at some point in their lives. When these teeth emerge, there is often not enough room in the mouth for them, which can lead to a number of problems:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: This occurs when the tooth is unable to break through the gum, creating a pocket where bacteria can grow. This can result in infection and even damage to surrounding teeth.
Crowding: When the wisdom teeth push against other teeth, it can cause misalignment and crowding, which can lead to further complications.
Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are more difficult to clean due to their position at the back of the mouth. This means that they are more prone to gum disease and tooth decay.
The Extraction Process
Before the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action. Depending on the position of the teeth and the complexity of the extraction, you may be referred to an oral surgeon.
The extraction process generally involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area around the tooth, although in some cases, general anesthesia may be administered.
Incision: An incision is made in the gum to expose the tooth and surrounding bone.
Removal: The tooth is divided into sections, which are then removed. Once the tooth is out, the area is cleaned of any debris.
Closing the Incision: The incision is then closed with stitches, which will dissolve over time.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will be given instructions on how to care for your mouth as it heals. This may include:
Biting down on a gauze pad to help stop the bleeding.
Applying ice packs to the cheeks to reduce swelling.
Taking pain medication as prescribed.
Eating soft foods and avoiding hot and spicy foods for the first few days.
Rinsing with salt water to promote healing.
Avoiding smoking, spitting, and using a straw, as these can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
In Conclusion
Four wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure, but it’s important to understand why it is necessary and what to expect during the process. It’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling afterward, but by following your dentist’s instructions, you should make a full recovery within a few days. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist or oral surgeon.
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