Wisdom Teeth Removal: When It's Needed And What To Expect

We all know how important it is to keep our teeth healthy and clean. Ever since we were children, we were drilled with how we need to brush and floss multiple times a day. By following these guidelines and a proper diet, your teeth should be healthy and strong. The majority of your adult teeth will come through by the time you are around 17 to 21 years old. The last teeth you will get are called the third molars. They are often referred to as wisdom teeth. For most people, the teeth pop through the gums with no issues. For others, it involves a lot of pain and discomfort. This guide goes through signs of wisdom teeth problems and how to get relief.

What causes wisdom teeth discomfort?

Wisdom teeth discomfort is a sign that things aren't going right with the process. This can be for several different reasons:

• Wisdom teeth don't have the proper room to grow in

• There is a cyst near or on the tooth causing damage to the roots

• Wisdom teeth have a cavity caused by bacteria from trapped food

• There is an infection in the tooth or surrounding area

• The wisdom teeth come through in the wrong position

When do the wisdom teeth need to be removed?

If you are suffering from any of the issues mentioned above, you may need your wisdom teeth removed. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss the procedure. The dentist will take x-rays of your mouth and determine if the issues around the wisdom teeth are serious enough to require a removal of them. If any of the following are present, it will most likely lead to the removal of the wisdom teeth:

• Intense pain

• Tumors or cysts

• Infection

• Decay

• Gum disease

• Damage to neighboring teeth

What is the procedure for removing wisdom teeth?

To remove the wisdom teeth, you will have to undergo surgery. The dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon who will handle the procedure. You will meet with the oral surgeon before surgery to discuss things like: current health problems, prescriptions you take, and any concerns you have. The surgeon will discuss anesthesia types and pain control. At this point, a final surgery date is set. You will need to set up transportation because you will not be able to drive yourself home afterwards.

The surgery to remove wisdom teeth takes about 45 minutes if there are no complications. You will be placed under anesthesia of your choice – local, IV sedation, or general – and then your doctor will begin the procedure. If the surgeon has to cut the wisdom teeth out, there will be dissolvable stitches placed in your mouth which can cause some extra discomfort during the recovery time. Each side of your mouth will be packed with gauze to soak up any blood for the first day or so. Your mouth will be tender for four days or so. The dentist will supply you with a list of dos and don'ts that are important to stick to. You will follow-up with your regular dentist in a few weeks. For more information, contact specialists like David B Anderson, DDS, PC.