What Is a Wisdom Tooth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that normally erupt between the ages of 17 and 26.
They are the last teeth to emerge during the development of the human dentition. Since they usually begin to erupt in the early twenties, they often cannot find sufficient space in the jaw and therefore remain impacted. In such cases, intervention by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon through wisdom tooth extraction is required. Otherwise, impacted teeth may disrupt the jaw structure and, in some cases, even lead to the loss of healthy neighboring teeth.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Extracted?
There is a common belief that wisdom teeth must always be removed. However, these teeth are valuable for proper chewing function. Inadequate chewing can negatively affect the entire digestive system, and contrary to popular belief, digestion actually begins in the mouth, not the stomach. Therefore, the extraction of healthy teeth is not recommended by any dentist.
If wisdom teeth erupt properly and are healthy, intervention is unnecessary. However, if they are impacted or erupt at an angle, they may cause problems. Especially if they cause pain in their location, wisdom tooth extraction may be required.
In Which Situations and When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Extracted?
Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth. Because this area is difficult to see and access, brushing and maintenance are more challenging compared to other teeth. Due to inadequate cleaning, wisdom teeth can easily decay, leading to pain and bad breath.
In some cases, wisdom teeth cannot erupt because of insufficient space in the jaw. They may remain fully impacted under both the gum and jawbone, making them completely invisible in the mouth, or they may be partially impacted under the gum and come into contact with the oral environment. In such cases, food can become trapped around the tooth, leading to infection. Swelling and redness of the surrounding gum, severe pain radiating to the neck and ear, swollen lymph nodes, and pain during mouth opening and swallowing define a condition known as pericoronitis.
Fully impacted wisdom teeth can also push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding or misalignment. Additionally, pressure on neighboring teeth may result in decay. Impacted wisdom teeth that go unnoticed for many years can lead to large cysts in the jaw, causing serious problems.
Even if they do not cause immediate issues, wisdom teeth may need to be extracted for orthodontic reasons to ensure proper alignment of other teeth. For these reasons, wisdom teeth are extracted under local anesthesia, numbing only the affected area. Wisdom tooth extractions should be performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Dangerous?
Modern dental techniques have made many procedures much easier, including wisdom tooth extraction. However, the procedure must be performed in a professional treatment center by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Otherwise, serious jaw problems may occur.
This procedure is more complex than routine tooth extractions because wisdom teeth are often impacted or erupt at an angle among other teeth. Surgical intervention may be required during extraction. The gum must be opened appropriately, and the tooth must be removed carefully. Considering these factors, wisdom tooth extraction can be described as a demanding procedure, but today it can be performed successfully.
Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Cause Pain?
Local anesthesia is applied during the extraction, so the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. After the anesthesia wears off, mild pain may occur. In such cases, the oral surgeon may prescribe painkillers.
What Should Be Considered After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
If the operation is performed for an impacted tooth, sutures will usually be placed. In most of these procedures, suturing is necessary. In such cases, the patient should be careful for a few days. Very hot foods should be avoided, and hard or difficult-to-chew foods should not be consumed. Lukewarm and soft foods are recommended. Any medications prescribed by the dentist must be taken regularly. Sutures are typically removed after one week.
Can Other Teeth Also Be Impacted?
Besides wisdom teeth, canine teeth and premolars may also remain impacted. If orthodontic treatment with braces cannot bring them into proper position, they must also be surgically extracted.
How Should Oral Care and Nutrition Be After the Operation?
On the first day after extraction, spitting, brushing, vigorous rinsing, using a straw, or gargling should be avoided. For the first two days, lukewarm, soft, and smooth foods should be consumed. After every meal and tooth brushing, antiseptic mouthwashes recommended by the dentist should be used. Painkillers and, if prescribed, antibiotics must be taken regularly. Smoking should be avoided for the first 48 hours, as it can impair the healing process.
Is Severe Pain Common After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
After a properly and efficiently performed surgery, severe pain is uncommon. Any discomfort that occurs can usually be easily controlled with mild painkillers.
Will My Face Swell a Lot After Extraction?
Swelling in the cheek area varies depending on the condition of the tooth and from person to person. To minimize swelling, cold compresses should be applied to the cheek area during the first 24 hours. Mild swelling is normal and is part of the healing process.