Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that usually erupt in the mouth between ages 17 and 25. For some individuals, wisdom teeth can cause significant problems such as overcrowding, infection, or decay. In these cases, a dentist may recommend having them extracted. Removal of wisdom teeth is one of the most common oral surgeries performed today.
Before any surgery is done, it’s important to understand why we have wisdom teeth in the first place. They were once believed to be necessary for chewing certain types of food like raw meat or roots that our ancestors ate thousands of years ago. Although our diet has changed over time, these extra molars still develop in many people despite not being needed anymore for chewing.
Anatomy
If you have ever had an x-ray or a visit to the dentist, then you have likely heard of wisdom teeth. But where exactly are these mysterious third molars located? Wisdom teeth reside in the very back corners of the upper and lower jawline in humans, typically arriving between the ages of 17-25. They are classified as a type of molar, which generally appears much later than other permanent teeth to accommodate for the increased size and complexity of our modern-day mouths.
Unlike other adult teeth, wisdom teeth often fail to erupt through the gums properly due to their awkward positioning. This can cause a range of issues such as jaw pain, infection, or overcrowding in your mouth.
Extraction
Extraction of wisdom teeth is a common form of oral surgery that many people face at some point in their lives. While the exact age can vary, most dentists recommend the removal of wisdom teeth between the ages of 17 and 25. During this age range, wisdom teeth are more likely to become impacted or cause disease in other teeth.
The process for extraction generally involves an evaluation by a dentist or an oral surgeon who will assess whether extraction is necessary and can determine if it should be done as soon as possible. If it is decided that extraction is needed, the patient will be put under local anesthesia in order to ensure comfort during the procedure. The actual removal of the tooth may involve cutting through gum tissue and bone before it can finally be removed from the mouth completely. Afterward, pain medication may be prescribed for any discomfort felt over time during recovery.
Complications
When it comes to wisdom teeth, potential problems can be a cause for concern. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are often the last to erupt in late adolescence and early adulthood. While some people never suffer any issues with their wisdom teeth, others have trouble with them due to complications. Impacted and misaligned wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling, and infection of the gums. If left untreated these issues can cause damage to other surrounding teeth as well as lead to facial discomfort and general health concerns.
The most common complication associated with wisdom teeth is impaction, where the tooth fails to fully break through the gum line. This is due either because there isn’t enough room in the mouth for them or because they are growing at an awkward angle against other existing teeth. Impacted teeth may also become infected, which is a pain that can only be treated by removing the wisdom tooth. The infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and even cause inflammation in the jawbone or brain.
Aftercare
Post-surgery aftercare is an important part of the recovery process, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. It is crucial that patients properly care for their mouths and gums in the days and weeks following their surgery to ensure a comfortable healing experience. Here are some post-surgery tips to help you recover quickly and effectively from wisdom teeth removal.
First, it’s important to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions closely regarding diet, activity level, pain relief medication, and mouthwash usage. As painful as it may be, gentle rinsing with salt water can help reduce swelling and keep food particles from settling in the surgical sites. Be sure to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as foods that require a lot of chewing until the swelling has decreased and you’re able to move your jaw comfortably. Although swelling typically goes down within two weeks after surgery, it can take up to six weeks for the surgical sites to heal completely.
Alternatives
Though wisdom teeth are a common rite of passage for teenagers, many opt to have the procedure done surgically. However, there are alternative non-surgical solutions that can help those with pain and discomfort associated with their wisdom teeth. For instance, some people find relief from using warm salt water rinses or over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Additionally, an oral surgeon may suggest the application of topical anesthetics in order to relieve pain and swelling.
Moreover, antibiotics may be prescribed if your dentist finds signs of infection. Antibiotics can treat the infection and reduce any accompanying swelling. In addition to these remedies, some people opt for natural remedies such as tea tree oil or echinacea which can also help reduce inflammation and fight off infections. If you have any further questions about wisdom teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation.
Conclusion
The wisdom teeth are often the last to develop and are located in the far back of your mouth. They can come out at any age, but it’s most common for this to happen between the ages of 17 and 25. Taking care of these teeth is important, not just for oral health but also to avoid complications.
It’s best to brush and floss regularly, making sure you get all the way back to where your wisdom teeth will be emerging. If you have problems with your wisdom teeth that require a dentist’s attention – such as impacted teeth or infection – don’t hesitate to contact them immediately. Regular check-ups with your dentist can help detect problems early on before they become more serious.
Published on December 12, 2022 and Last Updated on December 12, 2022 by: Mayank Pandey
