Wisdom teeth or third molars are the last to emerge. While some do not have an issue with them, others have pain, overcrowding, or infections. Removal of wisdom teeth is based on numerous factors like oral health and alignment.
For others, there are benefits of keeping wisdom teeth, such as having a natural tooth form and not doing unnecessary surgery. But in the majority of circumstances, removal is the best way to prevent problems.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth were once helpful to our ancestors, who had larger jaws and needed more molars to chew tough foods. But as human diets evolved and jaw sizes decreased, wisdom teeth were no longer as helpful.
Today, many people do not have enough space for the development of wisdom teeth. Impaction happens when teeth get trapped under the gums, causing pain and infections.
Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth
Not all people need wisdom teeth removal, but they are usually problematic if they do not have enough space for growth. Some of the problems that come with them are:
- Impaction: The wisdom teeth get trapped in the gums or grow at an angle, which leads to discomfort.
- Crowding: Since there is not enough space, the wisdom teeth will push against other teeth, affecting alignment.
- Infections: The partially erupted wisdom teeth hold spaces where bacteria have a tendency to grow and lead to gum infection.
- Cavities: Because they are located at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are harder to clean and therefore more prone to decay.
Neglecting these issues may lead to more advanced dental issues, including harm to surrounding teeth and jaw pain.
Can You Keep Your Wisdom Teeth?
Others can maintain their wisdom teeth without issues. Regular dental visits enable them to monitor their growth and detect any issues at early stages. Nonetheless, dentists prefer recommending their removal when wisdom teeth are predisposed to ruin oral health.
For the curious, can you die if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed, the answer is that while it’s extremely rare, infections or abscesses that form as a result of impacted wisdom teeth, if left alone can lead to life-threatening complications. Prompt dental care can prevent severe infections from spreading.
Signs That Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed
If you don’t know whether your wisdom teeth must be extracted, watch for these warning signs:
- Recurring jaw pain or swelling
- Red, swollen, bleeding gums towards the back of your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Bad taste or odor in your mouth due to food that is trapped there
- Continued infections in the region of the wisdom teeth
A dentist will inspect your teeth through X-rays and recommend the most suitable treatment depending on the health of your teeth.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions: What to Expect
If extraction is not avoidable, a simple surgical procedure will take care of future issues. The region is numbed by a dentist or oral surgeon, the teeth are extracted, and post-surgery care instructions are provided.
For those seeking wisdom tooth extractions near you, a skilled dentist promises a painless and trouble-free procedure.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery from wisdom teeth surgery is about a week, with little swelling and pain expected. To promote quicker healing, consider the following tips:
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft food like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup to reduce irritation.
- Avoid straws as sucking may cause the blood clot to become dislodged and result in dry sockets.
- Keep your mouth clean by gentle rinsing but do not brush the extraction area for the first day.
Your dentist can give pain medication and after-care advice to have a safe recovery.
Book a Consultation for Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect your wisdom teeth may be causing problems, it’s essential to seek professional advice. At Royal Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing expert care and personalized treatment.
Need a reliable dentist in Dearborn? Call us today to arrange an assessment and decide on the most suitable method for your wisdom teeth.