What You Need to Know About Your 3rd Molar Wisdom Tooth

What You Need to Know About Your 3rd Molar Wisdom Tooth

Your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are usually the last teeth to emerge, usually in the late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth can serve as an asset to your oral health, but they can also be problematic if they are not properly aligned or don’t have enough space to grow. Ignoring problematic wisdom teeth can ultimately cause pain, infection, and even damage to neighbouring teeth.

Here’s everything you need to know about your 3rd molar wisdom tooth:

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth were once essential when our ancestors had to rely on a coarse, rough diet and needed extra molars to grind food. Today, our diet has significantly evolved, and we don’t require the extra teeth.

When Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. It’s essential to consult your dentist and receive regular dental check-ups to ensure that your wisdom teeth are not causing any issues. If your wisdom teeth cause any of the following problems, your dentist may recommend extraction:

– Overcrowding of Your Teeth
– Crooked Teeth
– Gum Disease
– Tooth Decay
– Cysts or Tumours

What to Expect of the Extraction Procedure?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure that your dentist or oral surgeon can perform. First, your dentist will administer an anaesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth. Depending on your situation, your dentist may choose to extract the tooth in one piece or break it into smaller parts.

After the procedure, you’ll need to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions, such as:

– Applying an Ice Pack
– Resting
– Eating Soft Foods
– Avoiding Smoking, Rinsing Your Mouth, or Using a Straw

How to Care For Your Mouth After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Caring for your mouth after tooth extraction is vital to prevent the risk of infection. Here are some tips on how to care for your mouth after wisdom tooth extraction:

– Bite down on a gauze pad for a minimum of 30 minutes to reduce bleeding.
– Apply an ice pack to your cheeks to reduce swelling.
– Take pain relief medication to alleviate any discomfort.
– Eat soft foods and avoid spicy or acidic foods.
– Brush and floss your teeth gently to avoid disturbing the extraction site.

In Conclusion

While wisdom teeth once played a critical role in our ancestors’ ability to consume food better, they serve less of a purpose in modern society. Regular dental check-ups and consultations with your dentist can help monitor your wisdom teeth and ensure their proper alignment. If your wisdom teeth cause any issues, your dentist may recommend extraction, which is a relatively simple procedure with minimal recovery time when carefully considered before performing. Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the healing of the extraction site and maintain your oral hygiene.