Should I Be Scared To Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed
Introduction
Getting your wisdom teeth removed can be a scary thought, especially if you have never had surgery before. With all the horror stories you hear about the pain and swelling, it's easy to understand why some people may feel apprehensive about the procedure. However, the truth is, getting your wisdom teeth removed is a very common procedure that millions of people undergo every year. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal to help you make an informed decision.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. They are located at the back of your mouth, and most people have four wisdom teeth, although some may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth can cause problems because they often don't have enough room to grow properly, leading to impaction, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth.
Why Do You Need To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why you may need to get your wisdom teeth removed, including:
- Impaction: When your wisdom teeth don't have enough space to emerge properly, they can become impacted, which means they are stuck in your jawbone or gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth that have partially emerged can create a space where bacteria can thrive, leading to infection and gum disease.
- Crowding: When your jaw is too small to accommodate your wisdom teeth, they can push against your other teeth, causing misalignment and crowding.
- Tooth decay: Wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth, which makes them difficult to clean properly. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
What Happens During The Procedure?
The procedure to remove your wisdom teeth can be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on how many teeth you are having removed, and how complex the extraction is. Your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in your gum tissue and remove the tooth, sometimes in pieces if it's impacted or difficult to remove. Once the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned and stitched closed. You will be given instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure, including what to eat and how to brush and floss.
What Are The Risks Of Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Like any surgery, there are risks associated with getting your wisdom teeth removed. Some of the possible risks include:
- Pain, swelling, and bruising
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Bleeding
- Dry socket (when the blood clot that forms after the tooth is removed becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves)
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
The recovery time after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but most people experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort for a few days to a week after the procedure. You will be advised to rest for the first day, and avoid strenuous activity for a few days after the surgery. You may need to take painkillers to manage the pain, and you will need to eat soft foods and avoid hot or cold drinks for a few days. Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure.
Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth removed may seem daunting, but it is a common procedure that can help prevent pain, infection, and damage to your other teeth. By understanding the reasons why you may need to get your wisdom teeth removed, what happens during the procedure, and the risks and recovery time associated with it, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for you.