Will Getting My Wisdom Teeth Removed Change My Face
Many people wonder if getting their wisdom teeth removed will change the appearance of their face. The answer is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors such as the person’s age, the position of the wisdom teeth, and the shape of their jawline.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. Some people may not develop them at all, while others may have more than four.
Why do they need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth can cause problems if they do not have enough space to grow properly. They can become impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge fully, which can lead to pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and bone. In some cases, they may push other teeth out of alignment.
How is the procedure done?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that is usually done under local or general anesthesia. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may need to remove some bone to extract it. After the tooth is removed, the incision is stitched up and gauze is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding.
Will my face change after the procedure?
The immediate effect of wisdom teeth removal is swelling and bruising of the face and cheeks, which can last for a few days. This is a normal part of the healing process and should subside within a week or so. However, in some cases, the removal of wisdom teeth can cause changes to the shape of the face.
Factors that can affect facial changes
The main factor that can affect facial changes after wisdom teeth removal is the position of the teeth. If the wisdom teeth are impacted and pushing against the other teeth, their removal can create more space in the mouth, which can cause the surrounding teeth to shift slightly. This can lead to changes in the alignment of the teeth and the shape of the jawline.
Another factor is the age of the patient. Younger patients who have not yet fully developed their facial structure may experience more noticeable changes compared to older patients.
Conclusion
While the removal of wisdom teeth can cause some changes to the face, they are usually minor and temporary. The benefits of removing impacted or problematic wisdom teeth far outweigh the risks, and it can improve oral health and prevent future complications. If you are considering wisdom teeth removal, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about any concerns you may have.
