Third molars – better known as wisdom teeth – are the last to appear, and the most likely to cause problems. In many cases, there simply isn’t enough room for these late-developing teeth. When that happens, extraction at our Milton ON dental practice is the best option to protect your oral health.
Why wisdom teeth are problematic
Secondary teeth are commonly called “adult” teeth, though that is a bit of a misnomer. They usually begin erupting when a child is in kindergarten or first grade, and finish developing well before he or she reaches high school. Similarly, the bone and muscle structure of the face develop during this time. Then, in the late teens or the twenties, the third molars begin to erupt.
Occasionally, there is sufficient room for this last set of teeth, but often there is not. The wisdom tooth might grow at an unnatural angle, inhibit jaw movement, or crowd adjacent teeth. Sometimes all or part of the tooth develops below the gumline. This condition, known as impaction, can disrupt or injure nerves, muscles, bone tissue, tooth roots, and other tissues.
Some of the most common complications associated with wisdom teeth include:
- Fracturing or other tooth damage
- Cysts around the tooth root
- Increased risk of decay or gingivitis
- Sinus problems
- Gum inflammation
- Deep infection
What to expect – the wisdom tooth extraction procedure
Simple tooth extraction is known as pulling a tooth, because it can usually be removed in one piece with minimal force using the right techniques. For impacted teeth, those that have broken off below the gum line, and other complicated cases, this method does not work. Instead, surgical extraction is needed.
The area is completely numbed prior to treatment, so you remain comfortable. Your dentist will create small incisions in the gum tissue as needed to access the tooth. Once it is removed, sutures may be used close the surgical wound.
Do your wisdom teeth require extraction?
There is a common myth that wisdom teeth don’t need to be removed unless they are causing pain. However, that is not entirely true. Extraction is not always required, but pain is not the only sign of trouble. In fact, many serious oral health problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis, infection, and other problems may be painless, especially in the early stages.
The only way to accurately evaluate a wisdom tooth is with a dental examination. This includes diagnostics such as digital radiology and intra-oral imaging.
- If the tooth is impacted or has caused tissue damage, it should be removed as soon as possible to avoid further harm.
- In some cases, preventive extraction is recommended, because it is apparent that the tooth will become impacted.
- If the tooth is not removed, your dentist will closely monitor its development, in case extraction is needed at a later date.
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Staff is always very professional, accommodating, friendly and helpful. I had a severe pain in my tooth and they adjusted me in the busy schedule of doctor. The doctor is also very experienced and professional.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth extraction?
Recovery typically takes a few days to a week. The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial for managing swelling and bleeding.
Is wisdom teeth extraction painful?
The extraction is performed under anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort varies but can generally be managed with pain medication.
Can I go to work the next day after wisdom tooth extraction?
It depends on the complexity of the extraction and your personal recovery. Many people prefer to take a few days off to recover comfortably.
What is the fastest way to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully, including using ice packs to reduce swelling, eating soft foods, and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.
Which is worse, upper or lower wisdom teeth?
Lower wisdom teeth often pose more problems due to their position and the higher likelihood of impaction, making them potentially more challenging to extract.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions FAQs
What are wisdom teeth?
“Wisdom teeth” refers to the nickname for the last teeth to develop in a person’s mouth. These backmost teeth are technically the third and final molars. Not everyone will develop all of their wisdom teeth; however, many will develop a “full set” – two molars on both sides of the mouth and in the upper and lower jaw.
Why are they called “wisdom teeth”?
The third molars get their name from the fact that they typically develop during that time of life when teens are transitioning to adulthood. For most people, these molars will begin to break through in their late teens to early 20s. This phase of life is generally associated with a time of growth and of “acquiring wisdom.”
Why do you extract wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth often need to be extracted because of their late arrival in your mouth. By the time they develop, there may be insufficient space for these backmost molars. Since they do not have enough space in the mouth to come in properly, they may try to erupt or surface at odd angles or in a misaligned fashion. Complications with wisdom teeth include impaction.
What happens when a wisdom tooth is impacted?
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that is “stuck” in the jaw. It may be either partially or fully trapped below the gumline. When this happens, you will likely know it! Some of the most common symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth include facial and jaw pain and swelling; a persistently bad taste in your mouth (as well as bad breath); and problems with easily and comfortably opening your mouth.
How do you treat impacted wisdom teeth?
Any wisdom teeth that are causing problems or could potentially cause problems should be extracted. Otherwise, these troublesome molars can damage other teeth. They may even cause cysts, sinus problems, and nerve damage. This can result in the need for additional restorative dentistry treatments down the line. Plus, since this condition is associated with intense pain, we can avoid discomfort and other distressing symptoms by proactively removing a tooth that isn’t developing properly. We can also ease pain and other problems that keep you up at night and interfere with your life by removing the affected teeth.
So, you may remove a tooth that isn’t causing problems?
It’s possible. During your recall appointments, we will examine your wisdom teeth to see how they are growing. If they are not coming in properly, we may recommend that you extract them before they cause pain and potentially damage other teeth and areas of your mouth.
Will wisdom teeth need to be replaced like other teeth?
No. Essential teeth must be replaced promptly to avoid devastating consequences, like the loss of supportive bone in the jaw. However, these molars are not considered to be essential teeth. They are vestigial structures, like your appendix or tailbone. These structures are not necessary for your health and function, but they can cause lots of discomfort and problems when things go awry with them.
Scott and Derry Dental Care - Dr. Jameela Jifri
If you are looking for a dentist facility where your entire family can get treated with the same professional care, Scott and Derry dental care is the one for you. We provide a comfortable environment for patients of all ages and backgrounds to get treated for dental related issues. With up to date technology and the latest equipment, we assure the best quality services from our skilled team of dentists led by Dr.Jameela Jifri. Our services range from preventive, general, hygiene, restorative dental treatments and cosmetic enhancements to dental surgeries. As we value your convenience we offer flexible appointment schedules with weekends and late-night appointment time and easy locations with free parking facilities. Dental facilities are designed with free Wi-Fi, a clean environment and a classy ambience to help patients relax and feel comfortable at all times. All treatments are catered to each patient's unique conditions and needs including their lifestyle and budget. Our staff consists of professional individuals who are passionate about helping people lead a healthier happy life and they are ready to guide you throughout the process with any help needed.
