Do you have wisdom teeth?
If so, you may be wondering whether they need to be removed.
Wisdom teeth are a common source of pain, discomfort, and dental problems, but not everyone needs to have them extracted.
In this article, we’ll look at the signs that indicate it may be time to have your wisdom teeth removed in order to keep your smile healthy.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For many, these teeth can be a source of great discomfort, as they may cause problems such as dry sockets, severe pain, and tooth decay. When wisdom teeth start to push against nearby teeth, they can cause gum disease and even lead to blood clots. If the pain becomes too much to bear, an oral surgeon may recommend having the wisdom tooth removed. In such cases, the surgeon will use an anesthetic to numb the area before the tooth is extracted.
The late teens are the most common age for having wisdom teeth extracted due to the fact that adult teeth are usually fully developed by then. This means that the wisdom tooth can be more easily extracted, and the gums are less likely to suffer from infection. Post-extraction pain is common and can be treated with over-the-counter painkillers. If the pain persists or is particularly severe, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection.
Ultimately, consulting with an oral surgeon is the best way to determine if a wisdom tooth needs to be removed. With their help, people can make an informed decision about their oral health and can take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of infection or further complications.
How Do I Know If I Have Wisdom Teeth?
Dentition may be impacted by the presence of additional molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth. In order to determine if wisdom teeth are present, a dental examination is necessary.
Symptoms for the presence of wisdom teeth can include jaw pain, sinus pain, unpleasant taste, and difficulty eating soft foods. If wisdom teeth are present, they can cause problems with adjacent teeth, tooth sockets, and orthodontic treatments. In such cases, wisdom tooth removal, or wisdom tooth extraction, is a surgical procedure that is normally recommended.
Wisdom teeth removal can help prevent future dental problems and provide relief from any existing symptoms. To ensure proper dental hygiene and health, it is recommended that an individual visit a dentist to assess if wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
What Are the Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Problems?
The presence of additional molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, can potentially lead to a variety of symptoms. To determine if wisdom teeth are the cause of the symptoms, it is important to obtain a dental X-ray and consult with a dentist.
Symptoms that may indicate wisdom teeth problems include:
- Poor oral hygiene: When wisdom teeth are misaligned, it can make it difficult to brush and floss the teeth properly, leading to an increased risk of decay and gum disease.
- Jaw pain: impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain in the jaw bone and surrounding tissues.
- Swelling: infections or impacted wisdom teeth can cause swelling of the gums and cheeks.
If the dental X-ray indicates that the wisdom teeth are impacting the permanent teeth, causing pain, or placing the teeth and jaw bone at risk, the dentist may recommend a wisdom teeth extraction. This procedure is typically done with the aid of local anesthetic and nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
After the procedure, the patient will need to follow their dentist’s instructions for proper recovery, such as avoiding hard or crunchy foods and continuing with good oral hygiene practices.
Are Wisdom Teeth Always a Problem?
It is possible that wisdom teeth may not cause any problems or discomfort. While wisdom teeth are not always a cause for concern, they may present issues if they are impacted, misaligned, or partially erupted. If the wisdom teeth are impacted, there may be a risk of infection, and the gum tissue may be swollen. If the impacted teeth are not removed, the neighbouring teeth can be damaged, and food particles can become trapped, leading to an increased risk of infection. Pain medications may be needed to reduce the swelling and inflammation of the gum tissue.
If wisdom teeth are causing pain, it is important to keep the mouth as clean as possible and to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. Following surgery, it is advisable to take a few days off to rest and to limit normal activities to aid in the healing process. Soft foods should be eaten for the first few days after surgery, and then gradually switch back to a regular diet. After wisdom teeth extraction, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection and to keep the gum tissue healthy.
Wisdom teeth can be a potential problem, but with the right treatment options, they can be managed effectively. It is important to discuss any concerns with a dentist to determine the best course of action.
When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Removal of wisdom teeth may be recommended for certain individuals based on the presence of potential complications. The presence of pain, bad taste, excessive bleeding, or postoperative pain after a few hours of the oral surgery procedure may require the removal of wisdom teeth. A healthcare professional may also recommend the removal of wisdom teeth if there is a risk of damage to the lingual nerve or other structures in the mouth.
In order to ensure a safe and successful recovery, individuals should abstain from strenuous activity for a few days after the procedure and take the prescribed pain relievers as directed. Following the instructions of the dental team carefully and discussing any concerns with them can help ensure a successful outcome for the patient.
What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Removing impacted wisdom teeth may provide several benefits.
One of these is relief from persistent pain. Wisdom teeth may cause pain when they emerge at an odd angle and push against other teeth.
Another benefit is improved physical activity. Eating chewy or semi-soft foods may be difficult for those with wisdom teeth, leading to decreased physical activity. Removing them may make it easier to chew and swallow food, resulting in improved physical activity.
A third benefit is better oral health. Not only do impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, but they may also be difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk of dental decay and gum disease. Removing them may reduce the risk of bacterial buildup and can make it easier to keep the gums and other teeth clean. Using an antibacterial mouthwash and following up with regular dental appointments can also help maintain good oral health.
Overall, it may be beneficial to have impacted wisdom teeth removed. However, it is best to seek medical attention and discuss wisdom teeth symptoms with a health professional before making a decision. Doing so can help ensure the best possible outcome.
Key Takeaways
Ultimately, wisdom teeth can be a blessing or a curse, depending on the individual circumstances. It is important to pay attention to any signs of trouble and visit a dentist to determine whether they should be removed.
Oftentimes, the removal of wisdom teeth can be a great boon, providing relief from pain and the opportunity for a healthier and more comfortable life.
For those experiencing wisdom teeth woes, it’s time to face the music and take the necessary steps to ensure a brighter future.
If you are experiencing any discomfort or issues related to your wisdom teeth, it is important to take action and visit a dentist. Simply Dental Chatswood is your trusted source for wisdom teeth removal. Our experienced dentists in Chatswood, NSW will provide you with the best care and support throughout the entire process. Don’t wait until it’s too late; visit Simply Dental Chatswood, to get your wisdom teeth taken care of today.
We also have a team of experienced dentists in Willoughby to serve you.