All About Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that erupt from the gum line, often in late adolescence or the early twenties, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. There are four wisdom teeth in total, two on top and two located on the rear corners of the mouth. The majority of us will have a full set of four wisdom teeth, which frequently erupt gradually over a period of months or even years. However, some people will develop fewer than four wisdom teeth, and roughly 30% will not develop any at all.

Complications Arising from Wisdom Teeth:

Some wisdom teeth erupt (come through the gum) painlessly, but occasionally wisdom teeth press into the gum or the tooth next to them because they are coming in at an angle. This is known as impaction. Wisdom tooth impaction can be uncomfortable and can result in infection. These teeth might be challenging to brush. Food particles and germs that become lodged between the wisdom teeth and the tooth next to it can cause tooth decay and a condition known as pericoronitis in the gums.

Symptoms:

Impacted wisdom teeth don't usually show symptoms. However, you could experience any of these warning signs or symptoms if an impacted wisdom tooth injures other teeth, causes damage to nearby teeth, or leads to other dental issues.

• Gums that are swollen or red
• Gums that are sore or bleeding
• Pain in the jaw
• Swollen jaw
• Bad breath or halitosis
• Difficulty opening your mouth

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

It's common for wisdom teeth to erupt at odd angles, which can occasionally cause other, straight teeth to shift out of place. It is advised that they be removed sooner rather than later in order to have the least influence on neighboring teeth, bone, and gum tissue.

Initial consultation: 

Your oral surgeon will examine the condition of your wisdom teeth and take dental X-rays to pinpoint their precise placement during your appointment. Any drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are presently taking should be disclosed to your surgeon at this time. During this session, your surgeon will also review sedation options with you. They could suggest local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia according to your requirements and preferences.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific preparation instructions if you choose IV sedation or general anesthesia. This can entail quitting some drugs a few days beforehand and fasting before your operation.

Procedure: 

When removing wisdom teeth, your dentist or oral surgeon will:

• Expose the tooth and bone by making an incision in the gum tissue.
• Removes any bone that is preventing access to the tooth root.
• Divide the tooth into sections if it's easier to remove in pieces.
• Removes the tooth, cleaning the area to eliminate any tooth or bone debris.
• Closes the incision using stitches to promote healing, although this is not always necessary.
• Apply gauze to the extraction site to stop bleeding and promote the formation of a blood clot.

Dos and don’ts after wisdom tooth removal

• Gently bite down on gauze pads to help control bleeding.
• Apply ice packs to your cheeks to reduce swelling.
• Get plenty of rest for the first few days after surgery.
• Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the area of surgery.
• Follow a soft diet for the first few days.
• Avoid using straws.
• Keep the site of extraction clean.
• Take all the medications that are prescribed.
• Don’t spit or rinse rigorously.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining oral health. While you can't prevent impactions, staying on top of your six-month appointments for cleanings and checkups allows our dentists at Dental Smile Savers in Bronx, NY to closely monitor the growth and emergence of your wisdom teeth. Through regularly updated dental X-rays, we can identify impacted wisdom teeth even before symptoms arise, ensuring prompt and effective treatment.