The wisdom teeth removal procedure is quite common in the United States. Around 10 million wisdom teeth are extracted here every year. It is typically performed when the wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they have come through the gums at an angle or not all the way. Impacted wisdom teeth often cause pain, discomfort, and crowding in the mouth, making it difficult to keep them clean.
In some cases, removing wisdom teeth can prevent future problems such as infection or gum disease by removing potential hiding places for bacteria.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Consequently, many individuals may require wisdom teeth removal to prevent overcrowding and preserve the health of adjacent teeth and gums. Although there are some cases where it is preferable to keep wisdom teeth, most people find relief in having them extracted due to the following potential issues associated with them.
- One common problem caused by impacted wisdom teeth is severe pain. When a tooth cannot fully erupt due to a lack of space in the mouth, it can press against adjacent teeth and cause extreme discomfort. In addition, misaligned wisdom teeth can irritate surrounding soft tissues, leading to swelling and painful abscesses that can be difficult to treat. These issues can be particularly detrimental for individuals with compromised immune systems who have difficulty healing from infections.
- The cost of wisdom teeth removal can be a major issue for many individuals. Depending on the extent of treatment necessary, the overall wisdom teeth removal cost can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. This is due to factors such as the complexity of the procedure and whether or not sedation is required. In addition, insurance often does not cover the full cost of the surgery, leaving many patients having to pay out of pocket. The cost for a single extraction typically runs from $200 – $600 (without insurance). Therefore, anyone considering wisdom tooth extraction should discuss payment options with their dentist beforehand.
- Another issue associated with impacted wisdom teeth is damage to nearby bones and gum tissue. When impacted wisdom teeth push against neighboring structures, they create inflammation that can lead to significant destruction over time. This includes resorption of the jawbone near roots and a periodontal disease resulting from infection around the gums. If left untreated, this type of damage can affect overall oral health for years down the road.
Warning Signs for Extraction
It is important for individuals who are at risk for developing complications from their wisdom teeth to seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible. Early detection and removal may prevent long-term problems such as infections or bone loss. Seeking regular checkups and cleanings will also help identify any emerging issues before they become severe enough to require extraction surgery. Furthermore, following post-operative instructions provided by your dentist is essential for proper recovery and minimizing risks for future complications related to impacted wisdom teeth.
Following are a few major signs that indicate the requirement for the extraction of wisdom teeth.
- Discomfort and Pain
Feeling pain or discomfort in the jaw and/or gums surrounding a wisdom tooth is the most common symptom. If you experience pain or tenderness when biting down, chewing, or brushing your teeth within the area of a wisdom tooth, it is likely that the tooth is coming in at an angle or is impacted and will require removal. The pain may be particularly noticeable when eating hard foods.
- Pathogenic Inflammation
Swelling in the gum tissue surrounding a wisdom tooth is an evident symptom of inflammation of the gum tissue near a wisdom tooth. Infection usually causes inflammation from bacteria buildup due to food particles becoming lodged around the tooth. Over time, this can cause swelling and become increasingly painful if not treated.
- Halitosis
Halitosis (bad breath) is caused by bacteria such as Prevotella and Eubacterium, which accumulate due to the food particles around impacted teeth, leading to further bacterial growth and increased bad breath.
- Cysts Formation
The development of cysts around a wisdom tooth indicates the requirement for extraction. Cysts form when fluid becomes trapped inside your jawbone due to an obstruction like a wisdom tooth that has not descended fully yet. As they grow larger, these cysts can cause serious damage to your jawbone structure and even invade adjacent teeth if left untreated for too long.
Procedures
The procedure for removing wisdom teeth is similar to other types of extractions. Here are the steps involved in the procedure:
- The first step in any wisdom teeth removal is for your dentist to examine and diagnose your condition.
- The next step is administering anesthesia to numb the area so that no pain is felt during the entire procedure.
- Afterwards, an incision is made to expose the wisdom tooth for safe removal.
- Once the wisdom tooth has been extracted, sutures may then be placed around each extraction site to ensure proper healing.
Precautionary Measures for Removing Wisdom Teeth
Removal of wisdom teeth requires careful consideration and planning both before and after surgery. Before surgery, you may need X-rays or other imaging tests taken so that your dentist can determine which teeth need to be extracted and what techniques should be used during the extraction process.
The dentist will also provide instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery. This usually includes avoiding solid foods and using only soft foods or liquids until healing has occurred. Additionally, your dentist may suggest preventive measures such as antibiotics before surgery if there is any concern about possible infection at the extraction site. After your surgery, you will likely experience some soreness and swelling for up to several days.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively common procedure, but it’s important to know the potential risks and complications. If you have any signs or symptoms indicating a problem with your wisdom teeth, such as pain, swelling, infection, dry socket, or jaw stiffness after surgery, contact your dentist immediately for further advice and treatment. It’s also essential to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to reduce the risk of infection or other serious complications.
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