Are You Supposed To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth are the last molars that usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties. These teeth can be helpful to grind and chew tough foods, but they can also cause problems if they don't grow properly or if there's not enough space in your mouth.
What Are The Reasons For Removing Wisdom Teeth?
There are several reasons why dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth:
- They're impacted: When the wisdom teeth don't have enough room to emerge properly, they can become impacted, which means they're stuck below the gum line and can't break through. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- They're causing crowding: If your mouth is too small for your wisdom teeth, they can push your other teeth out of alignment and cause crowding.
- They're difficult to clean: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of your mouth, which makes them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
- They're causing pain: If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain or discomfort, it's a sign that they need to be removed.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The procedure for removing wisdom teeth depends on how many teeth need to be removed and how they're positioned in your mouth.
If the wisdom teeth have emerged fully, they can be removed like any other teeth. However, if the wisdom teeth are impacted, your dentist or oral surgeon will need to make an incision in your gum to access the teeth. They may also need to remove some bone to fully extract the teeth.
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, which means you'll be awake but won't feel any pain. If you're nervous or anxious, your dentist may also offer sedation to help you relax.
What's The Recovery Like?
After the procedure, you'll need to rest for a few days while your mouth heals. You'll be given instructions on how to care for your mouth and what to eat and drink during this time.
You may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding after the procedure, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort.
Conclusion
If your dentist has recommended that you get your wisdom teeth removed, it's important to follow their advice. Removing wisdom teeth can help prevent oral health problems and alleviate pain and discomfort. Talk to your dentist about any concerns you have and ask them to explain the procedure and recovery process in detail so you know what to expect.
