Wisdom teeth
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop and appear in your mouth. They come in between the ages of 17 and 25.
What Is an impacted tooth?
When a tooth is unable to fully erupt into the mouth, it is said to be “impacted.” In general, impacted teeth are unable to break through the gums because there is not enough room. Nine out of ten people have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. Complications such as infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and the formation of cysts may arise from impacted teeth.
Why should I get my wisdom teeth out?
If left in the mouth, impacted wisdom teeth may damage neighboring teeth, or become infected. Because the third molar area of the mouth is difficult to clean, it is a site that invites the growth of bacteria that leads to gum disease. Oral bacteria may travel from your mouth through the bloodstream, where it may lead to possible systemic infections and illnesses that affect the heart, kidneys and other organs.
Research has shown that once periodontal disease is established in the third molar areas, the problem is persistent and progressive, but may improve following extraction of the teeth. In some cases a fluid-filled cyst or tumor may form around the crown of the untreated wisdom tooth. As the cyst grows it may lead to more serious problems as it hollows out the jaw and damages surrounding nerves, teeth and other structures.
When should I get my wisdom teeth out?
Wisdom teeth are easier to remove when the patient is younger, since their roots are not completely formed, the surrounding bone is softer, and there is less chance of damaging nearby nerves or other structures. Removal of wisdom teeth at a later age becomes more complicated as the roots have fully developed (and may involve the nerve or sinus cavity), and the jawbone is denser.
What if my wisdom teeth haven't caused me any problems yet?
Many people believe that as long as they are not in pain, they do not have to worry about their wisdom teeth. However, pain-free does not mean disease or problem-free. In fact, wisdom teeth that come in normally may still be prone to disease, according to a study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Foundation. AAOMS strongly recommends that third molars be evaluated by an oral surgeon by the time a patient is a young adult in order to assess the presence of third molars, disease status, and to suggest management options ranging from removal to a monitored retention plan to ensure optimal patient-specific outcomes.
In general, dental and medical professionals agree that wisdom teeth should be removed in the following instances:
• Infections, bone loss, and/or periodontal disease
• Cavities that cannot be restored
• Pathologies such as cysts, and tumors
• Damage to neighboring teeth
Wisdom teeth that are completely erupted, functional, and disease-free may not require extraction. They do, however, require annual check-ups, professional cleaning, and periodic radiographs to monitor for any changes.
What happens during surgery?
Before surgery, we will discuss the procedure in detail with you and tell you what to expect. Be sure to let us know about any illness you have and medications you are taking. There are several conditions that affect how easy it will be to remove a wisdom tooth, including how the tooth is positioned and the stage of root development.
Most of the time third molars can be removed with little or no pain. Patients are given either local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. We will discuss the anesthetic option that is right for you.
What happens after surgery?
Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which are part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses may help decrease the swelling, and we will prescribe medication to help manage the discomfort. You may be instructed to modify your diet following surgery and later progress to more normal foods.