Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge and can often cause discomfort or complications. But is it always necessary to remove them? In this article, we will clarify all your doubts about the symptoms, the need for extraction, and post-operative care.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, located at the very back of your mouth.
Wisdom teeth emerge between the ages of 16 and 25 and are usually four in number, located at the back of the mouth. However, some people may have fewer, or in some cases, may not develop these teeth at all.Wisdom teeth don't always need to be removed. When they emerge aligned and healthy, they can remain in the mouth without causing problems. However, if they are impacted or unerupted, they can cause pain and inflammation, making their extraction necessary.
Symptoms of wisdom tooth problems
Wisdom teeth can cause several uncomfortable symptoms. Among the most common are:
- Persistent pain in the back of the mouth
- Swelling and redness in the gum
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Recurrent gum infections (pericoronitis)
- Misalignment of adjacent teeth due to pressure exerted by the wisdom tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to see a dentist for a thorough examination.
When to get wisdom teeth removed and why
Wisdom tooth extraction is recommended in several situations:
- Impacted wisdom toothWhen a tooth cannot break through the gum, it can cause pain and infection.
- Gum inflammation or infectionDifficulty in cleaning can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and the development of infections.
- Damage to adjacent teethWisdom teeth can press on adjacent teeth, causing misalignment.
Cysts or cavitiesWhen a wisdom tooth is only partially erupted, it can develop cavities or even cysts in the gum.
The wisdom tooth extraction is performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The procedure typically begins with a local anaesthetic to numb the area. In some cases, sedation or general anaesthesia might be used for more complex extractions or for patients who are particularly anxious. The dentist will then make an incision in the gum to expose the tooth and its root. If the tooth is impacted (meaning it hasn't fully erupted or is growing at an angle), the bone around the tooth may need to be removed. The tooth might then be cut into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove. Once the tooth is out, the socket will be cleaned, and the gum may be stitched closed. The stitches will usually dissolve on their own or will need to be removed by the dentist after a week or so. After the procedure, patients are given instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including pain management and how to keep the area clean to promote healing.
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction can last between a few days to two weeks. To ensure proper healing, follow these recommendations:
In the early days:
- Apply ice to the area to reduce swelling.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity.
- Keep your head elevated when sleeping.
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcoholic beverages.
Dietary care
- Opt for soft, cold foods, such as cold soups, yoghurts and fresh juices.
- Avoid hot, hard or spicy foods.
- Do not use straws to drink liquids, as the sucking action may dislodge the blood clot.
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction can last between a few days to two weeks. To ensure proper healing, follow these recommendations:Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction can last between a few days to two weeks. To ensure proper healing, follow these recommendations:
Recovery and post-operative care
A visit to the dentist for a professional cleaning is the first step to remove surface stains and plaque. This step is essential before starting any whitening treatment.
Oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical site.
- Use a mouthwash recommended by your dentist to prevent infections.
If you feel intense pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection (such as fever), contact your dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth may or may not need to be removed, depending on their position and the impact they have on your oral health. If you experience pain or discomfort, it is best to book an appointment with a dentist for a thorough assessment and to decide on the best course of action for your situation.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars, located at the very back of your mouth.
These are the third molars, normally four, which emerge between the ages of 16 and 25. They are located at the very back of the mouth and not everyone develops them.
Are wisdom teeth always necessary to extract?
No. If they erupt well aligned, without causing pain, infections or impacting adjacent teeth, they can remain in the mouth. Extraction is only indicated in specific cases.
Os sintomas mais comuns de problemas com os sisos incluem dor, inchaço, vermelhidão e dificuldade em abrir a boca.
Toothache at the back of the mouth, swollen and red gums, difficulty opening your mouth, recurring gum infections, and misaligned teeth are typical symptoms.
When should I have my wisdom tooth removed?
Extraction is indicated if the tooth is impacted, causes infections, damages neighbouring teeth, or develops decay or cysts.
How are wisdom teeth extractions performed?
It is a surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic. In some cases, it may involve making an incision in the gum or removing bone to facilitate the extraction.
How long does recovery take after an extraction?
Recovery varies from person to person, but typically lasts between 3 days to 2 weeks. In the first few days, it is essential to follow the recommended care to avoid complications.
What can I eat after wisdom tooth removal?
In the early days, opt for cold, soft foods such as yoghurts, cold soups, purées, and natural juices. Avoid hard, hot, or spicy foods.
Can I use a straw after having my wisdom tooth removed?
No. The sucking motion can dislodge the clot protecting the extraction site, causing a painful condition called dry socket.
Se não remover um dente do siso incluso, podem ocorrer várias complicações, incluindo: * **Dor e inchaço:** Um dente do siso incluso pode pressionar os dentes adjacentes ou o osso circundante, causando dor e inchaço na gengiva. * **Infeção:** A área ao redor de um dente do siso incluso pode ser difícil de limpar, o que pode levar a infeções bacterianas (pericoronarite). * **Danos aos dentes adjacentes:** A pressão exercida pelo dente do siso incluso pode causar reabsorção óssea e empurrar os dentes adjacentes, levando a problemas de apinhamento e desalinhamento dentário. * **Cistos ou tumores:** Em alguns casos, um dente do siso incluso pode desenvolver um cisto ou um tumor, que pode danificar o osso da mandíbula e os dentes circundantes. * **Cáries:** A dificuldade em limpar um dente do siso incluso pode aumentar o risco de desenvolver cáries. * **Problemas na articulação temporomandibular (ATM):** A pressão de um dente do siso incluso pode contribuir para dores e disfunções na ATM. É importante consultar um dentista para avaliar a necessidade de remover os dentes do siso inclusos, pois ele poderá diagnosticar precocemente quaisquer complicações e recomendar o tratamento adequado.
It can cause frequent infections, cavities, cysts, chronic pain or pressure on adjacent teeth, causing misalignment.
Is it normal to have pain after a wisdom tooth extraction?
Yes, some discomfort is expected. However, if the pain is very intense, persistent, or accompanied by a fever, you should contact your dentist.
