Wisdom teeth or third molars are the last permanent teeth to appear in the oral cavity. These usually erupt between the ages of 17 to 25 and are known to cause problems for many due to a lack of space in the jaw. If the tooth doesn’t have room to grow (impacted wisdom tooth), it might result in pain, infection, or other dental problems, and you’ll likely need to have it pulled.
To prevent potential problems, your dentist might recommend wisdom tooth extraction even if the impacted wisdom teeth aren’t currently causing problems. Usually, the procedure is carried out under local anesthesia and if stitches are placed, the stitches will be taken out within a week.
What is Tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket without causing any damage to the surrounding supportive tissues.
The pain of tooth extraction procedures varies depending on the tooth’s eruption into the oral cavity.
Types of Tooth Extraction
There are two types of tooth extraction: simple extraction and surgical extraction.
1. Simple extraction:
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible in the mouth and is above the gum line. These teeth are usually easily removed by loosening the tooth with an elevator and pulling it out with forceps.
2. Surgical extraction:
A surgical extraction is performed on a tooth that is below the gum line or is completely embedded in the bone. These teeth are impacted.
Reasons for tooth extraction:
- There are several reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary, including:
- Severe decay or infection that cannot be treated with a root canal.
- Advanced gum disease or periodontal disease.
- Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or affecting surrounding teeth.
- Crowded teeth or preparation for orthodontic treatment.
- Fractured or broken teeth beyond repair.
- Preparation for dentures or dental implants.
- Removal of extra teeth or teeth blocking other permanent teeth from erupting properly.
- Cosmetic reasons, such as removing teeth for smile improvement or before orthodontic treatment.
Who needs wisdom tooth extraction:
- Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth may indicate a need for wisdom tooth extraction.
- Impacted wisdom teeth, which lack space to grow properly, can cause various dental problems.
- Infections around impacted wisdom teeth can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty in opening the mouth.
- Crowding of nearby teeth due to wisdom teeth eruption can affect the alignment of the existing teeth.
- Wisdom tooth extraction is often recommended to prevent potential future problems and maintain overall oral health.
- Extraction may be necessary even in the absence of symptoms to prevent complications in the long run.
- Consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon is crucial to determine if wisdom tooth extraction is needed.
Procedure of wisdom tooth extraction:
- To expose the tooth and bone, an incision is made in the gum tissue.
- The bone that is impeding access to the tooth root is removed.
- If it is easier to remove the tooth in sections, it is divided into sections.
- Any debris from the tooth or bone at the site of the extracted tooth is removed.
- The incised gum tissues are then sutured.
- These sutures will be removed in a few days.
Consequences of Not Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed:
- Because your permanent teeth are already in place, the eruption of this extra set of molars may cause them to shift. This causes pain, bite problems, and overcrowding making brushing and flossing difficult and eventually leading to cavity or tooth decay.
- Wisdom teeth can cause damage to the jawbones, affecting the function and motion of the mouth.
- We all know that the mouth and nose are closely linked, but did you know that impacted wisdom teeth can have an impact on the sinuses? When the growth of these molars causes sinus pain, pressure, and congestion, wisdom teeth extraction is recommended.
- Wisdom teeth that erupt at an angle to the other teeth or horizontally can cause the gums to swell and make cleaning difficult. These reddish areas along the gum line are often sensitive to touch, preventing proper brushing and flossing and ultimately leading to cavities and tooth decay.
Oral surgeons are specialists who excel in performing wisdom tooth extractions with precision and expertise. With their advanced training and experience, they ensure safe and efficient removal of impacted wisdom teeth, providing patients with optimal care and minimizing potential complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is a tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is generally performed under the effects of local anesthesia, which helps minimize any potential sensations during the procedure.
How long does it take to recover from tooth extraction?
Recovery from a tooth extraction typically takes about a few days to a week.