Wisdom Teeth Removal
Overview
Wisdom teeth removal requires precision to prevent potential nerve damage.
Wisdom teeth are called so because they usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties, a time traditionally associated with the attainment of wisdom and maturity. Their name reflects the age at which they typically appear rather than any direct connection to wisdom.
Indications for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Why are they removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed for various reasons:
Impaction: Wisdom teeth may not have enough space to fully emerge or may grow at an angle, leading to impaction. This can cause pain, swelling, and potential damage to nearby teeth.
Infection and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of bacterial growth and infection. This can lead to gum disease, swelling, and pain.
Decay: Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be challenging to clean properly, making them susceptible to decay.
Cysts and Tumours: In some cases, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially causing damage to the jawbone and neighboring teeth.
To prevent these issues and maintain oral health, dentists often recommend the removal of wisdom teeth, especially if there are signs of potential complications.
Take Home Message
Surgical removal of wisdom teeth, especially when nerve proximity is a concern, requires precision to prevent potential nerve damage, ensuring a safe and effective extraction procedure.
Symptoms
Pain or Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth, often radiating to the jaw or ear, can be a common symptom. This may be due to the eruption of the wisdom teeth or impaction.
Swelling and Redness: Swelling and redness in the gums around the back of the mouth may indicate inflammation or infection associated with the wisdom teeth.
Difficulty Opening the Mouth: Swelling or pain can make it difficult to open the mouth fully. This may also be accompanied by stiffness in the jaw.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets where food particles and bacteria can accumulate, leading to bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Headaches: Wisdom teeth-related issues can sometimes cause headaches, particularly if there is pressure or inflammation in the jaw.
Gum Bleeding: If wisdom teeth are partially erupted or impacted, they may be difficult to clean properly, leading to gum inflammation and bleeding.
Jaw Stiffness: Discomfort and swelling around the wisdom teeth can result in jaw stiffness, making it challenging to move the jaw smoothly