What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located in the very back of the mouth,
located in both the upper and lower areas. In most cases, the wisdom teeth don’t
have ample room to grow or erupt in a normal fashion, which in turn causes the
teeth to become impacted. In certain cases, impacted wisdom teeth do not cause
any issues and can remain in the mouth for life. However, the awkward
positioning of the teeth can make them difficult to brush or floss, which can
eventually lead to decay.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Require Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is often recommended when the teeth cause dental issues
or uncomfortable symptoms, and the procedure may also be recommended if the
dentist or oral surgeon suspects that the impacted teeth may cause problems in
the future. Understanding the signs of impacted wisdom teeth and discussing
treatment options with a dental professional can help patients determine
whether or not wisdom teeth removal is the appropriate procedure to suit their
particular oral health care needs.
Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
In certain cases, impacted wisdom teeth do not cause any symptoms and are only
detected in X-rays during regular dental checkups. However, the condition can
also cause symptoms such as jaw pain, swelling in the jaw area, swollen or
inflamed gums in the back molar area and gum tenderness. Individuals with
impacted wisdom teeth may also experience headaches, bleeding gums and foul
breath. While these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues, it is
always best for individuals to consult with a dental professional to ensure a
proper diagnosis, as complications such as oral cysts, gum disease and damage to
the surrounding molars can occur if the condition is left untreated.
Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If impacted wisdom teeth that are discovered upon X-ray examinations do not
cause discomfort or dental hygiene problems, the condition is referred to as
asymptomatic impaction, and patients may be advised to take a “watch and wait”
approach. During this period, the dentist will examine the teeth on a regular basis
and monitor the impacted areas for symptoms. When the teeth are causing
significant pain, dental decay or gum problems, wisdom teeth removal is usually
recommended.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
During a wisdom teeth removal procedure, an dentist or oral surgeon creates an
incision in the gums in order to access the wisdom teeth. If there are bones
blocking the underlying teeth, these will be removed as well. Once the teeth are
removed, the area is thoroughly cleaned and the gums are stitched together. The
tooth sockets are packed with gauze to protect the area and promote proper
healing. Patients must follow specific aftercare instructions such as rinsing with
salt water and avoiding using straws until the teeth are properly healed, as these
practices help to prevent complications and minimize the chance of infection.
