Everything You Need to Know About Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Everything You Need to Know About Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that emerge at the back of the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. In some cases, these teeth may not have enough space to grow properly, resulting in impacted wisdom teeth. When this happens, it can cause several dental problems, making it necessary to remove them. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about the removal of impacted wisdom teeth.

What are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth are molars that do not fully emerge from the gums, or emerge at an angle. When this happens, it can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth are classified into four categories:

– Vertical impaction: The tooth is partially erupted and remains in a vertical position.
– Horizontal impaction: The tooth is angled backward and presses against the second molar.
– Mesial impaction: The tooth is angled forward and presses against the adjacent molar.
– Distal impaction: The tooth is angled backward and away from the second molar.

What Causes Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough space in the mouth for them to grow in the correct position. This can be due to the following reasons:

– Small Jaw size: The jaw may not be large enough to accommodate the wisdom teeth, causing them to become impacted.
– Blocked by adjacent teeth: When the wisdom teeth are blocked by the adjacent teeth, they may not have enough space to emerge correctly.
– Wrong angle of growth: In some cases, the wisdom teeth grow at an angle that is not favorable for proper growth.
– Late eruption: Wisdom teeth may erupt too late, after the other teeth have already settled in their respective positions.

What are the Problems Associated with Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause several dental problems, including:

– Pain and swelling: Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in the mouth.
– Infection: The gums surrounding the impacted tooth can become infected, leading to a condition known as pericoronitis.
– Tooth decay: Impacted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, making them prone to decay and gum disease.
– Damage to adjacent teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause damage to the adjacent teeth, leading to crowding and misalignment.

The Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

The removal of impacted wisdom teeth is a surgical procedure that is done under local anesthesia. The procedure involves making an incision in the gums to access the tooth and removing it in sections, if necessary. After the procedure, the patient may experience some discomfort and swelling that can be managed with painkillers and a cold compress.

Recovery

After the surgery, the patient will need to be on a soft diet for a few days while the mouth heals. It is essential to keep the surgical site clean by rinsing with saltwater after meals. The stitches, if any, will dissolve within a few days. Complete healing may take up to three weeks.

Conclusion

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant dental problems, making their removal necessary. If you experience pain, swelling, or discomfort in your mouth, it is essential to seek the opinion of a dental professional. With proper care and management, the removal of impacted wisdom teeth is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve your oral health.