Wisdom teeth
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Although the terms ‘wisdom teeth’ or ‘third molars’ are widely recognized, there is often uncertainty about their nature, when they erupt, and the potential problems or complications they can introduce to our oral cavity, affecting teeth and surrounding tissues.
While wisdom teeth are often associated with the onset of pain, not everyone experiences discomfort, and complications are not universal. The following will address these uncertainties and questions.
Situated behind the second molars, the third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last set of four molars located on each side of the jaws.
Wisdom teeth are so named due to their appearance at an age when individuals generally exhibit a more advanced and comprehensive level of wisdom than during the emergence of the rest of the permanent dentition.
Generally making an appearance in humans between 18 and 25 years of age, these teeth may or may not emerge. Their eruption can also happen earlier or later, and it’s not uncommon for only a subset of them to surface.
The emergence of wisdom teeth harks back to our ancestors, who required highly developed jaws to process food that demanded extensive chewing. This allowed ample space for accommodating wisdom teeth.
As the dietary patterns of the human species shifted, the emergence of smaller jaws became noticeable. Consequently, wisdom teeth may exhibit inappropriate growth directions or shapes today, influenced by spatial constraints.
Wisdom teeth
CHANNEL ISLANDS FAMILY DENTAL
While a considerable portion of patients with impacted third molars may be symptom-free, reported discomfort is usually tied to infection, frequently associated with pericoronitis. Observable signs may include:
In the case of requiring extraction of wisdom teeth either by presenting symptoms that harm the patient extraction is performed according to the following procedure:
Initially, a local anesthetic is administered to the area.
Subsequently, the gum tissue over or around the tooth is opened.
In certain cases, it becomes necessary to remove the bone surrounding the wisdom tooth.
The extraction of the wisdom tooth follows, a process contingent upon the tooth’s position and anatomy, as some may require sectioning for easier removal.
Stitches may be required after the extraction, and these typically need removal 5-7 days post-surgery.
A gauze dressing is applied for 30-45 minutes to staunch bleeding.
Many patients with impacted third molars have no symptoms, but when the patient reports discomfort, it is usually because these teeth are infected, associated with pericoronitis. It may be noted.
In instances where a wisdom tooth is impacted or lacks sufficient space, resulting in pain, infection, or other dental concerns, extraction may be recommended. If the extraction involves a complex surgical procedure or the tooth is deeply impacted, your dentist may advise seeking the expertise of an oral surgeon.
This procedure can often be done at the Channel Islands Family Dental office and by our dentists in Oxnard, Santa Paula, Ventura, NewBury Park and Port Hueneme.
After the extraction of a wisdom tooth, it is common to undergo pain and swelling, with the possibility of some bleeding.
As the wound heals, ensure not to dislodge the blood clot or cause injury to the healing gums. Stick to a soft diet during the initial days after the procedure. When brushing your teeth, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and be cautious to avoid the extraction site.
Wisdom tooth extraction usually entails a recovery time of three to four days, though it can extend beyond a week. The recovery period is closely tied to the severity of impacted wisdom teeth and the manner in which they were erupting.
The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is a safe approach to alleviate wisdom tooth pain while also aiding in the reduction of inflammation.
In cases of infection, antibiotics may be advised by our dentists in Oxnard, Santa Paula, Ventura, Newbury Park, and Port Hueneme, or our oral surgeon, either before or after wisdom tooth extraction, as long as they are prescribed.
Wisdom teeth
Dr. Roberto
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