Wisdom teeth are the third molar teeth located in the back of the mouth. They usually develop between the ages of 15 to 25. Wisdom teeth don’t present a problem for everyone. But, for some, they’re the cause of discomfort, pain, and inflammation. The question is, should you have them surgically removed or not? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at wisdom teeth removal to help you understand if this procedure is necessary or not.
The decision to have your wisdom teeth removed can be a tough one. In some cases, extraction is recommended, while in others, it may not be necessary. It’s critical to understand the reasons behind the decision to have the teeth removed and the risks involved. Below are some of the things you should consider.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth are ones that haven’t broken through the gum line or are misaligned. They can cause infection, pain, and inflammation. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth can damage adjacent teeth, gums, or even your jawbone.
2. Crowding Teeth: If your mouth is overcrowded, wisdom teeth may push other teeth out of position, causing discomfort or pain.
3. Gum Inflammation: Gum inflammation, or pericoronitis, can occur around the wisdom tooth as it tries to erupt. The flap of gum tissue covering the tooth may trap bacteria, causing infection.
4. Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth, making them harder to clean thoroughly. This puts them at risk of developing tooth decay.
Surgical Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What Should You Expect?
If your dentist or oral surgeon recommends wisdom teeth extraction, you’ll undergo surgery. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation to make you more comfortable during the surgery.
During the surgery, the dentist or surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue, remove any bone covering the tooth, and then gently rock the tooth back and forth to loosen it from the jawbone. The tooth is then extracted, and the area is cleaned and sutured.
Post-Operative Care
After the procedure, you’ll be advised to rest for 24 to 48 hours and avoid physical activity. You may experience swelling, pain, and bleeding, but you can take medication prescribed by the dentist or oral surgeon to manage the discomfort.
Additionally, you’ll need to take care of the extraction site properly by keeping it clean to avoid infection. You should also avoid eating hard or crunchy foods that may disrupt the clotting process, leading to a dry socket.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure for removing problematic teeth that cause pain, inflammation, or infection. However, the decision to have them removed is based on several factors, including your age, the condition of your teeth and gums, and any underlying health issues. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide the best advice on whether wisdom teeth extraction is necessary or not. If it’s recommended, it’s essential to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to recover successfully.
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