Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that most people develop in their late teens or early twenties. They are called “wisdom teeth” because they typically emerge at a time when a person is becoming more mature and wiser. However, wisdom teeth can also be a cause of concern for many people, as they can cause pain, infection, and other dental problems. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about wisdom teeth, from what they are to how to take care of them.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may get them earlier or later. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all. There is no certain thing that everyone must have these.
Wisdom teeth were once thought to be necessary for our ancestors who ate a diet of rough, hard foods. However, as our diet has evolved and become softer, wisdom teeth have become less necessary. As a result, some people are born without wisdom teeth, and others may have them removed to prevent potential dental problems.
Why do Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of dental problems, and many dentists recommend removing them to prevent these issues before they occur. One of the most common problems with wisdom teeth is impaction, which occurs when a wisdom tooth does not have enough room to grow and becomes stuck in the jawbone. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. If you are not sure about removing or not, contact with Alfa Dental Center today and the experienced dentist will offer you a solution.
Other problems with wisdom teeth include decay, gum disease, and damage to surrounding teeth. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of your mouth, which can make them difficult to clean properly. As a result, they are more prone to decay and gum disease. Additionally, wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, causing misalignment and damage to surrounding teeth. Also some of reasons can be listed as below;
Overcrowding: The human jaw has evolved to be smaller over time, which means there may not be enough room in the mouth to accommodate four additional teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, shifting, and misalignment of the other teeth in the mouth.
Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they grow in at an angle and get stuck in the jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and damage to nearby teeth and gums.
Infection and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, especially if they are partially or fully impacted. This can lead to bacterial form and infection, which can cause gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems.
Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can form cysts or tumors in the jawbone, which can cause pain and damage to nearby teeth and nerves. This generally effects oral health.
How are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If your dentist recommends removing your wisdom teeth, the procedure will typically be done in their office or a dental clinic. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the complexity of the procedure and your personal preference. Some of people may have allergic to anesthesia or fear of anesthesia. In these cases other methods can be used.
Local anesthesia is the most common type of anesthesia used for wisdom teeth removal. This numbs the area around your teeth, and you will be awake during the procedure. Sedation anesthesia may also be used, which will make you drowsy or put you to sleep during the procedure.
During the procedure, your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. They will then remove any bone that is blocking the tooth and divide the tooth into sections to make it easier to remove. Finally, they will clean the area and stitch the gum tissue back together. This process requires skilled and experienced dentists like Alfa Dental Center.
How to Take Care of Your Wisdom Teeth
Taking care of your wisdom teeth is essential to prevent dental problems. Regular dental check-ups can help detect any issues early on. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can also help prevent decay and gum disease.
If you experience pain or swelling around your wisdom teeth, see your dentist as soon as possible. They may recommend extraction or other treatments to prevent further problems.
Daily brush and floss: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove food particles and bacteria.
Antiseptic mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
A healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to maintain a good oral health.
Dentist visits: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy and detect any dental problems early.
Wisdom teeth removal: If your wisdom teeth are causing problems or are at risk of causing problems, your dentist may recommend having them removed.
Recovery
After your wisdom teeth are removed, you will need to take special care to ensure proper healing. Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions, but here are a few general tips:
- Rest for the first 24 hours after surgery
- Apply an ice pack to your cheeks to reduce swelling
- Avoid smoking and drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Brush your teeth gently to avoid the surgical area
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help healing process
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can cause a variety of dental problems, but with proper care and attention, you can prevent these issues before they occur. Remember to schedule regular dental check-ups, brush and floss your teeth regularly, and see your dentist if you experience any pain or swelling around your wisdom teeth. For detailed check-up and suitable treatment, contact with Alfa Dental Center professionals. If your dentist recommends removing your wisdom teeth, don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have. By taking care of your wisdom teeth, you can maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems down the line.