Wisdom Teeth – What Are They and Why Do I Need Them Removed?

The third molars, known as wisdom teeth, erupt between 17 and 25.

Some people have only 2 wisdom teeth, while others have 4.

Very few people have no wisdom teeth – a trait caused by evolution.

Although most dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal, the procedure should only be done if the teeth are going to cause a problem.

Since the wisdom teeth are the last 4 to emerge, there’s often less space in the jaw bone to develop correctly.

They either come out at an angle or stay impacted in the jawbone. They can be challenging to clean because they’re located right at the back of the mouth.

Wisdom teeth trap many food particles and ultimately decay over time, destroying the neighbouring teeth as they deteriorate.

Wisdom teeth that are misaligned or impacted are best removed because they serve no purpose in the oral cavity.

Would Wisdom Tooth Extraction Be Right for You?

Surgery may be ideal if your wisdom teeth are coming out at an angle or have started to decay.

Patients about to get their teeth straightened also chose to undergo wisdom teeth removal surgery before using orthodontics.

This is because wisdom teeth pressure neighbouring teeth as they erupt, causing misalignment and bite problems.

Moreover, it’s easier to extract wisdom teeth before the roots firmly grip the jawbone, so patients often undergo this procedure when the teeth first erupt.

Wisdom Tooth Problems

Patients with impacted or malpositioned wisdom teeth tend to suffer from cavities, gum inflammation, cysts, and toothaches.

Some patients also experience jaw stiffness, pain, or irritation along the cheek. Teeth right next to the wisdom teeth are more likely to develop gum problems.

Gum infections need to be addressed as soon as possible. If left untreated, they could cause permanent tooth and nerve damage.

Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

The extraction of wisdom teeth is not necessary for everyone. If your wisdom teeth emerge correctly, are healthy, and don’t cause pain or misalignment, they may not require extraction.

However, most dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal when:

• The teeth are impacted or stuck beneath the gums.
• They are growing at an angle, pressing against other teeth.
• They are partially erupted and challenging to clean, leading to decay or infection.
• They are causing pain, swelling, or recurring gum infections.
• They are contributing to crowding, especially for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

If you experience any of these issues, it’s best to consult with a dentist who can assess whether wisdom tooth removal is necessary.

What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal

If your dentist recommends wisdom tooth extraction, the procedure is typically straightforward.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation and X-rays

X-rays will be taken by your dentist to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and ascertain if they should be removed. If the teeth are near nerves or other sensitive places, your dentist could recommend that you see an oral surgeon.

2. Sedation Options

Depending on the complexity of your case and your comfort level, you may receive local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Your dentist will discuss the best course of action with you.

3. The Extraction Process

The surgery typically takes 45 to an hour, depending on how many teeth are extracted. If the teeth are impacted, a small incision may be made in the gum to access the tooth. After removal, the area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed to promote healing.

4. Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort after surgery, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.

Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:

• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
• For the first few days, limit your diet to soft things like soup, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt.
• Avoid using straws during your recovery period. The suction created can push away blood clots, which may result in dry socket formation.
• Warm salt solutions provide effective mouth cleaning when rinsed with gentle care but avoid forceful water movement.

Most people recover within a week, but full gum tissue healing can take a few weeks. Your dentist will give individual aftercare directions that depend on your treatment needs.

The Importance of Wisdom Tooth Removal for Your Oral Health

Wisdom teeth appear at first harmless, but they create lasting oral health problems when they lack proper space for development. Early intervention for problematic wisdom teeth can avoid subsequent painful situations combined with harmful infections and alignment problems.

Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring wisdom teeth development. Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing problems now, routine X-rays can help determine if they may become an issue later. Seeking timely intervention from a dentist now will prevent complex procedures from becoming necessary.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Applecross

If your wisdom teeth are coming out and you have questions, talk to our team of professional dentists at Epsom Dental Care Applecross.

Your Applecross dentist is accredited to two-day surgery facilities in Applecross.

This means you can choose to have your wisdom teeth removed under general anaesthesia at one of these day surgery units. We aim to offer you the best dental health services at our friendly practice.

Besides wisdom tooth extractions, we offer dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics. We also accept emergency dental bookings.

If you have any questions about our services, we will happily answer them and schedule an appointment. Contact us online or call (08) 9316 0555.

We are located at 729 Canning Hwy in Applecross WA.