Who Needs a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

A wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that is performed by a dentist to remove one or more of your wisdom teeth. These are the four permanent adult teeth situated at the back corners of the mouth on the top and bottom. Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, are usually the last permanent teeth to erupt in the mouth. But in some cases, wisdom tooth extraction must happen based on the dentist’s recommendations.

Wisdom tooth extraction

Wisdom teeth often grow in before the age of 25. Some individuals never develop wisdom teeth. For others, these teeth erupt normally and do not cause any problems. But the eruption of wisdom teeth can become a problem if these teeth erupt in the wrong position, become impacted, or cause crowding in the mouth.

Impaction is a common problem that occurs with wisdom teeth. This happens when, often due to lack of space, a tooth cannot move into its proper position. As a result, it ends up aligned horizontally or diagonally. It usually presses against the tooth next to it, and if left long enough, it may cause other teeth to shift position.

Regular checkups

Regular checkups help a dentist to follow the progress of a patient’s teeth. If they see anything that concerns them about the wisdom teeth, they will examine them further and take X-rays before deciding how to deal with the problem. Wisdom teeth often need to be removed if there is evidence of changes in the mouth, like infection, pain, cysts, tumors, or damage to neighboring teeth. Other factors include gum disease or tooth decay. Wisdom tooth extraction may also be necessary as part of treatment for braces or other dental care.

Risks

In many cases, wisdom tooth removal does not result in long-term complications. But sometimes, problems can occur after the procedure. After a tooth is removed, a blood clot often forms in the tooth socket and protects the area while it heals. A dry socket is when this clot dislodges or breaks down and exposes the bone below. This condition can be painful and can delay the healing process. Other complications can include infection in the socket due to trapped food particles or bacteria, sinus issues due to inflammation, or nerve damage to the lower lip, chin, or tongue.

Preparing for wisdom tooth extraction

An individual can get this procedure done in either a dental clinic or a hospital setting. This depends on the patient’s situation. An impacted wisdom tooth will need a more complicated procedure. Some patients will need sedation. Before this outpatient procedure, the patient must prepare well. Here are some tips on how to do so:

• Talk to the dentist and the doctor about pre-existing conditions. The dentist will then provide instructions before the procedure. These instructions include fasting before the wisdom tooth extraction. Stopping or starting specific medications is also part of the preparation.
• Ask the dentist relevant questions about the procedure. During the consultation, the patient must ask the dentist about every important aspect of the extraction. This includes questions about insurance coverage, payment plans, and the length of the surgery. Asking about the recovery period can help the patient file for a leave of absence.
• Prepare for travel after the procedure. The patient will likely be under sedation during the wisdom tooth extraction. This means that the patient will experience the effects of sedation until hours after the wisdom tooth extraction. Someone must drive the patient home and assist the patient until the effects of the sedation fade.
• Stock up on soft foods. These foods can help the extraction site heal better. The patient does not need to chew these foods much at all. This allows that part of the jaw to rest. Healing will be faster.
• Get enough rest and sleep. Keeping strenuous activities and stress at bay can help the body as well. Proper rest and sleep can help tissue repair.

Keeping wisdom teeth

Wisdom tooth extraction is very common, but it can help to address or prevent many dental problems. Before making any decisions, your dentist will examine your mouth and teeth and take an X-ray. You should then discuss the ideal course of treatment. Wisdom teeth that are not extracted should continue to be monitored. This is necessary because the potential for developing dental problems later on still exists.

As people grow older, they are at a greater risk for health problems. This includes potential issues with their wisdom teeth. But people should take good care of their mouths and teeth. This involves flossing around the wisdom teeth and visiting the dentist regularly. These visits will allow the dentist to evaluate the wisdom teeth as well as the patient’s overall dental health.

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