Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually grow in people's late teens or early twenties. Some people have enough room in their mouths to accommodate these teeth, while others do not. For those who don't have enough space, wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other problems. As a result, many people wonder whether they need to have their wisdom teeth removed. In this article, we will explore this question in depth.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow in the back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, two on the top and two on the bottom. These teeth typically grow in between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may get them earlier or later.
Why Do Some People Need To Remove Their Wisdom Teeth?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, some people may experience problems that require extraction. The most common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include:
Impacted wisdom teeth: This occurs when the teeth grow at an angle or get stuck in the jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
Crowding: If there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth, they can push against other teeth and cause crowding.
Tooth decay: Wisdom teeth are more difficult to clean than other teeth, which can lead to decay and cavities.
Gum disease: Wisdom teeth can also contribute to gum disease, which can cause bleeding, inflammation, and other problems.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
Not everyone needs to have all four wisdom teeth removed. In some cases, only one or two teeth may need to be extracted. The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on several factors, including:
The angle of the teeth
The amount of space in the mouth
The person's age and general health
Whether the teeth are causing pain or other problems
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is usually performed by an oral surgeon or dentist. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used to put the patient to sleep.During the procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue and remove the tooth. If the tooth is impacted, it may need to be cut into smaller pieces before it can be removed. After the tooth is removed, the dentist or oral surgeon will stitch up the incision and place gauze over the area to help stop any bleeding.
What Is The Recovery Like?
The recovery after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person. Most people experience some pain and swelling for a few days after the procedure. They may also have difficulty opening their mouth and eating solid foods. It is important to follow the dentist's instructions for postoperative care, which may include:
Taking pain medication as directed
Using ice packs to reduce swelling
Eating soft foods and drinking plenty of fluids
Avoiding smoking or using a straw
Conclusion
In conclusion, not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, if a person is experiencing pain, infection, or other problems, it may be necessary to have them extracted. The decision to remove wisdom teeth should be made in consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon. By following proper postoperative care, most people can recover from wisdom teeth removal with minimal discomfort.
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