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Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of your mouth. These teeth often appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, for many others, extraction is the best course of action. In this blog, we’ll explore why wisdom tooth extraction is often necessary and how it can benefit your overall oral health.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth:
When there’s not enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to grow properly, they can become impacted, meaning they’re stuck beneath the gum line. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection.
Crowding of Teeth:
Wisdom teeth can push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding and misalignment. This can undo the benefits of orthodontic treatment, such as braces, leading to a need for further corrective procedures.
3. Infection and Decay:
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are prone to bacterial infections as they are difficult to clean, leading to decay and gum disease. If left untreated, these infections can spread and cause severe pain.
4. Cyst Formation:
In some cases, a cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. This can damage surrounding bone and tissue, requiring the tooth to be removed to prevent further complications.
5. Preventive Measure:
In some cases, wisdom tooth extraction is recommended as a preventive measure to avoid potential issues in the future. Even if the teeth aren’t causing immediate problems, removing them can help avoid complications down the road.
When to Get Wisdom Teeth Extracted:
It’s often best to have wisdom teeth removed early, typically in your late teens or early twenties. At this age, the roots are still forming, and the bones are softer, making extraction easier and recovery quicker. Waiting too long could lead to complications, as the roots may be fully developed, and the bone may become denser, making extraction more difficult.
What Happens During the Extraction?
The procedure for wisdom tooth extraction is straightforward, and most people undergo the procedure under local anesthesia or sedation. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum to access the tooth, remove it, and then close the incision with stitches. If the tooth is impacted, the procedure might be slightly more complex.