Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the teeth located the farthest back on both the upper and lower jaws of the mouth. This is an extra set of molars, and they are typically covered by a thinner layer of enamel than other teeth.
Wisdom teeth may not give you any trouble and emerge from the gums straight and fully. If wisdom teeth do cause problems, it is likely you will experience trouble between the ages of 15 and 25. This is actually a good thing, because the roots of teeth in young people are not fully formed, therefore making wisdom teeth removal much easier, and it facilitates a better recovery. Rarely do wisdom teeth cause trouble over the age of 30.
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When Wisdom Teeth Removal is Needed
Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not emerge from the gums and become impacted. Impaction of wisdom teeth can result in painful infections, and may cause problems for neighboring teeth. An impacted wisdom tooth may be tilted or sideways and may push on neighboring teeth, causing pain and orthodontic issues by moving teeth out of place.
Another issue with wisdom teeth is partial emergence, where the wisdom tooth has a partial flap of gum on it, enabling bacteria to collect underneath the flap and cause infection. The gums will become swollen and infected which creates an environment for the development of cavities and tooth decay. Removal of wisdom teeth is urgent once infection develops. Regular dental check-ups can monitor the development of wisdom teeth in children and young adults.
Sinus pain, pressure, and congestion can be caused by wisdom teeth. Your dentist can advise you on how your wisdom teeth are affecting your sinuses by taking an x-ray.
Jaw damage caused by cysts or infection can also be corrected by wisdom teeth removal.
Your dentist or oral surgeon can advise you on the structure of your mouth and position of your wisdom teeth. Be sure to ask your dentist to clearly explain these issues to you.
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Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
Once you’ve made the decision to seek wisdom teeth removal, your dentist will take a complete medical history from you, including any medications you take, before the surgery. The dentist or oral surgeon will likely perform the surgery in his or her office. You will be given novocaine to numb the area or perhaps even nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to relax you during the surgery. Occasionally, if all four molars are being removed or there is some other medical issue, the surgery may be performed in a hospital setting.
If the dentist needs to cut the gum to remove the tooth, he will use stitches to hold the gums together during the recovery period. Your dentist will also give you detailed instructions to follow during the recovery period.
Parkcrest Dental Group
Are you looking for a dentist who offers wisdom teeth removal in the Springfield, Missouri area? Contact the Parkcrest Dental Group today for an appointment.
