Is Wisdom Teeth Removal a Surgery?
Many people wonder about the nature of wisdom teeth extraction. Is it a surgery? Yes, it is a surgical procedure but not all surgical procedures are the same. Wisdom teeth removal, also known as third molar extraction, is a common surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more of the four wisdom teeth. It is generally performed by an oral surgeon or a dentist in their office or a surgical center under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
The Anatomy of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are molars located at the back of the jaw. They typically erupt between the ages of 17 to 25 years old when a person reaches adulthood. In most cases, humans have four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth. However, some people may have fewer or more than four wisdom teeth. The removal of wisdom teeth is necessary when they cause problems, such as crowding or impaction.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal is Necessary?
Wisdom teeth can cause various problems if they do not have enough space to grow or do not grow in the right direction. Some of the problems associated with wisdom teeth are:
– Pain
– Infection
– Damage to nearby teeth
– Gum disease
– Cysts or tumors
If left untreated, these problems can lead to more severe complications, such as the spread of infection to other parts of the body or damage to the jawbone.
Preparation for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Before the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss the anesthesia options and the risks associated with the procedure. They will also review your medical history, including any medications that you are taking, to ensure that there are no contraindications.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure
First, local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the wisdom teeth and to help you relax during the procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will then make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and the bone. They will then use forceps to loosen the tooth from the socket or cut the tooth into smaller pieces to facilitate extraction. Once the tooth is removed, the area will be cleaned and may be closed with stitches.
Post-Procedure Recovery
After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area to rest. You will also receive instructions on how to care for the wound, including recommendations for pain relief and medications to prevent infection. You may experience some swelling, pain, and bleeding for a few days following the procedure, but most people can resume normal activities within a few days to a week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that is often necessary to prevent or treat problems associated with the eruption of wisdom teeth. Like any surgery, it carries risks and requires some postoperative care. However, with proper preparation and aftercare, most people undergo wisdom teeth extraction without complications. If you are experiencing symptoms of wisdom teeth problems, be sure to consult a dental professional to determine whether extraction is necessary.
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