Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last to emerge in the mouth. For some people, they can grow without causing any issues, but for others, they can lead to many problems. In such cases, it becomes necessary to extract them. This article will discuss why wisdom teeth removal becomes necessary for oral health.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
These third molars typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people may have up to four of them, while others may have none. These are located behind the second molars at the back of the mouth. They can grow at various angles, such as horizontally, diagonally, or vertically.
Why Are They Extracted?
● Impacted Wisdom Teeth: One of the most common reasons for the extraction is impaction. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it cannot emerge fully from the gum line. Impaction can occur for several reasons, such as lack of space, an irregularly shaped tooth, or a blockage from other teeth. Impacted molars can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
● Infections: The third molars that have partially emerged can be challenging to clean properly, leading to bacteria and plaque buildup. This can cause infections in the gum and the surrounding teeth. These infections can sometimes spread to other body parts, leading to serious health problems.
● Crowding: The human jaw has evolved to accommodate only 28 teeth, but when the third molars emerge, they can cause overcrowding in the mouth. Crowding can cause those last molars to shift out of alignment, leading to problems such as malocclusion and bite problems.
● Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, these last molars can cause cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These growths can be painful and can cause damage to the surrounding teeth and bones. In such cases, extraction becomes necessary to prevent further damage.
The Procedure for the Extraction
Wisdom teeth extraction is a standard dental procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. Sometimes, the dentist may use sedation to help the patient feel more comfortable during the procedure.
This minor surgery involves making an incision in the gum tissue and removing the wisdom tooth. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be cut into smaller pieces to make removing it easier.
Recovery after the Extraction
After the extraction, it is normal to experience pain and swelling in the mouth. After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions on caring for the mouth, such as avoiding solid foods for a few days and taking pain medication as needed. It is also essential to keep the mouth clean to prevent infection.
This reliable dentist in Oakland CA also recommends avoiding the extraction site when brushing your teeth to prevent getting a dry socket.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is necessary to maintain oral health in cases where they are causing problems. While it may seem daunting, the procedure is routine and can prevent serious health issues like infections and tumors.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your last molars, do not waste your time and consult a dentist to determine if the extraction is necessary for oral health.
Remember, prevention is better than cure, so to maintain good oral hygiene, you must take care of these last molars in your mouth when they cause severe problems.
