Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to erupt. Located at the back of the jaw, wisdom teeth can cause abscess formation, pain, and discomfort that disrupts the jaw structure. It is essential to undergo a dental examination once these teeth start erupting.

If the teeth are aligned properly with the jaw structure, there is no need for extraction. However, sometimes the teeth may emerge at an incorrect angle or become impacted, causing discomfort by being partially or fully covered by gum tissue.

How Many Wisdom Teeth Are There?

There are a total of four wisdom teeth, and they typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can be impacted, and if they are not causing any pain, they may go unnoticed. Impacted teeth can only be detected through X-ray examination during dental check-ups.

Some impacted teeth may be noticed due to inflammation or the formation of cysts. In such cases, medication may be administered before tooth extraction. Subsequently, an appointment is scheduled for the extraction of the wisdom tooth.

Signs of Problematic Wisdom Teeth

Symptoms such as tooth and gum pain, sensitivity in the gum area, earache, jaw pain, swelling of the lymph nodes, bad breath, and pain during chewing may indicate issues with your wisdom teeth. Patients experiencing these symptoms should promptly seek dental attention. Since wisdom teeth are more likely to cause problems in later years, it is advisable to have them extracted at an early age.

Post-Operative Care After Wisdom Teeth Removal

To prevent potential complications after wisdom tooth extraction, patients should avoid consuming hot and cold foods. Chewing on the affected side should be avoided for 24 hours due to the risk of bleeding. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial following the surgery.