Wisdom Teeth and Oral Health: What You Need to Know

Wisdom Teeth and Oral Health: What You Need to Know

If you’re in your late teens or early twenties, you may already be hearing about “wisdom teeth” or “third molars” from your dentist or friends. For some, the idea of these teeth that emerge so late in life can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re properly informed, you can make smart decisions about your oral health and the potential impact of wisdom teeth. Here’s what you need to know:

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are molars that emerge in the back of your mouth, typically in your late teens or early twenties. They are also called third molars because they are the last set of teeth to emerge. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some people have fewer or none at all.

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

While our early human ancestors needed their wisdom teeth to grind down tough, fibrous foods, the evolution of our diet and tools have rendered them somewhat obsolete. These days, wisdom teeth often cause more problems than solutions, due to a lack of modern space in the mouth.

Why Do We Sometimes Need to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

When wisdom teeth emerge, they can cause several problems that threaten our oral health, including:

– Crowding: Wisdom teeth can induce crowding, cause misalignment, or even damage other teeth in the mouth.
– Impaction: When the wisdom teeth do not fully emerge from the gumline, they can become impacted – meaning they do not fully emerge – which can cause pain, swelling and infection.
– Oral Hygiene: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to reach and clean, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues.

If possible, your dentist will try to save your wisdom teeth, but removal is often the best option for preserving your oral health in the long run.

What Can You Expect from Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Your wisdom tooth extraction will be performed either under IV sedation, local anesthesia, or a combination of both, depending on the complexity of the procedure, your anxiety level, and your preference. Your dentist will give you written instructions explaining pre- and post-operative care and will prescribe medication to relieve any associated pain or discomfort.

What is the Aftercare Like?

While everyone’s experience is different, most patients require a few days to a week of rest and recuperation after wisdom teeth removal. You’ll likely experience some swelling, pain, and minor bleeding, and you may need to stick to soft foods for a few days. You should follow post-operative instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

In Summary:

– Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that emerge in late teens or early twenties.
– Wisdom teeth are typically removed because they can cause crowding, impaction, and hygiene issues that threaten oral health.
– Aftercare is crucial to ensure proper healing after wisdom teeth removal.

We hope this information has helped you better understand wisdom teeth and their relationship with oral health. As with any other medical decision, the best course of action is to communicate closely with your dentist, and listen carefully to their recommendations.