Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt and the ones that most often cause problems. Usually erupting between the ages of 17 and 25, they settle in without any issue for some people, while for many they cause problems such as pain, inflammation or impaction. In this article we take a detailed look at what you most want to know about wisdom teeth: the causes of pain, what an impacted tooth means, the extraction process and what to watch for afterwards.
What are wisdom teeth and when do they erupt?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the very back of the mouth. There are four of them in total (one in each quadrant), and they usually erupt in late adolescence and early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. Not everyone has all four; some people never develop them, while in others they remain impacted within the jawbone.
Why do wisdom teeth cause problems?
The modern human jaw is smaller than in the past, and there is often not enough room for these teeth to erupt properly. Because of this lack of space, wisdom teeth may tilt, erupt only partially or remain completely impacted. These situations create the ground for problems such as pressure on neighboring teeth, decay due to poor cleaning, inflammation and pain. The gum pocket around a partially erupted tooth provides a suitable environment for bacteria to accumulate.
What is an impacted wisdom tooth?
An impacted tooth is one that cannot fully erupt into the mouth because it remains within the jawbone or gum. Because of lack of space, wisdom teeth are the most commonly impacted teeth. An impacted tooth may be completely within the bone, partially covered by gum, or leaning against a neighboring tooth in a tilted position. Inflammation around a partially erupted tooth (pericoronitis) is one of the most common causes of recurring pain attacks.
What are the symptoms?
- Throbbing pain and a feeling of pressure at the back of the mouth
- Swelling, redness and tenderness of the gum
- Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing
- Swelling in the face or jaw area
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- In some cases, headache and pain radiating to the ear
Does every wisdom tooth need to be removed?
Not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed. A tooth that has erupted properly, forms a healthy bite with the opposing tooth and can be cleaned easily can stay in the mouth. However, removal is recommended if the tooth is impacted, causes recurring inflammation, damages a neighboring tooth, is decayed or is in a position that cannot be cleaned. The decision is made individually after a clinical examination and X-ray assessment.
How does the extraction process work?
Wisdom tooth extraction can be simple or surgical depending on the position of the tooth. A properly erupted tooth is removed with a standard extraction, while impacted or tilted teeth require surgical extraction. Both procedures are done under local anesthesia and no pain is felt during the procedure. In surgical extraction the gum is accessed, the tooth is divided into pieces if necessary, and the area is closed with sutures. The procedure is usually short, depending on the condition of the tooth.
Care after extraction
To speed up healing and prevent complications, pay attention to the following:
- Avoid frequent spitting and vigorous rinsing on the first day; keeping the blood clot in place is critical for healing.
- Avoid hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours; prefer lukewarm, soft foods.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol on the first day; both delay healing.
- Regularly take the painkillers and any antibiotics recommended by your dentist.
- You can apply a cold compress to the cheek from the outside on the first day for swelling.
- From the second day, you can gently rinse with warm salt water on your dentist’s advice.
Possible complications
Serious complications are rare after a correctly performed extraction. However, the condition commonly known as dry socket, which occurs after early loss of the blood clot, can cause prolonged pain. Mild swelling, a small amount of bleeding and temporary jaw stiffness are part of the normal healing process. In the case of severe or increasing pain, non-stop bleeding or high fever, it is important to see your dentist without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia and you feel no pain. Any mild discomfort afterwards is easily controlled with the recommended painkillers.
How long until I heal after extraction?
Surface healing takes a few days and full healing takes a few weeks. Sutures are usually removed within a week or dissolve on their own.
What happens if an impacted tooth is not removed?
It can lead to recurring inflammation, decay in the neighboring tooth and rarely cyst formation; regular follow-up is therefore important.
Can the teeth on both sides be removed at the same time?
It depends on the situation; your dentist will recommend the most suitable plan considering comfort and the healing process.
For your wisdom tooth pain or a detailed assessment, you can book an appointment at Beyaz Köşe Oral and Dental Health Clinic.