What is Wisdom Tooth?

At the back of the dental arch, dentists refer to the third molars as “wisdom teeth.” There are four wisdom teeth in total, two on each side of the upper and lower jaws. Wisdom teeth usually start erupting during early adulthood, typically between the ages of 18 to 25.

Reasons for Extraction:

Wisdom teeth may need to be extracted for various reasons:

1. Insufficient Jaw Space: When there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly, they can become impacted or grow at an angle, causing pain, swelling, and problems with jaw function.
2. Crowding: In cases where there is not enough space for wisdom teeth to come through, they may become wedged against other teeth, potentially causing damage.
3. Decay or Gum Diseases: Wisdom teeth are challenging to clean, making them more prone to decay and gum diseases.
4. Toothache: The eruption process of wisdom teeth can lead to swelling and discomfort in the gums.
5. Nerve and Bone Damage: Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the nerves or jawbone, leading to pain and discomfort.

When is Extraction Necessary?

Whether or not to extract wisdom teeth should be evaluated based on individual circumstances. However, extraction is generally recommended for wisdom teeth in the following situations:

1. Jaw insufficiency and crowding issues.
2. Insufficient space for proper eruption.
3. Pain and discomfort during the eruption process.
4. Wisdom teeth affected by decay or gum diseases.
5. Impinging on nerves or causing discomfort in the jawbone.

Post-Extraction Care:

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:

1. Adhere to the dentist’s oral care instructions and maintain good oral hygiene.
2. Avoid extremely hot or cold food and beverages in the first few hours.
3. Be mindful of your diet to prevent food particles from getting into the extraction site and avoid sharp-edged foods.
4. Use gauze as instructed by the dentist to control bleeding.
5. Swelling and discomfort may occur, and you can use prescribed pain relievers and cold compresses for relief.
6. Avoid physical activities and rest for the first few days.
7. Take prescribed medications as directed and attend post-extraction check-ups.
8. Seek immediate dental attention in case of complications or issues.

Remember that every wisdom tooth extraction case is different, and your dentist will provide personalized instructions to support the healing process.