Will My Face Shape Change After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, especially for young adults. The wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually in a person's late teens or early twenties. However, many people wonder if their face shape will change after having these teeth removed. In this article, we will explore the effects of wisdom teeth removal on the face shape and what to expect post-surgery.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop in the mouth. They are located at the back of the mouth, behind the second molars. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed because they can cause problems such as overcrowding, impaction, and infection. Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to come in. Impaction happens when the wisdom teeth are unable to emerge fully from the gums, which can lead to infection and pain.
Will my face shape change after wisdom teeth removal?
Many people worry that their face shape will change after wisdom teeth removal. However, the truth is that it is unlikely to happen. The wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth and do not have a significant impact on the overall shape of the face. The face shape is determined by the structure of the skull and the underlying bone structure, which are not affected by the removal of wisdom teeth.
What are the effects of wisdom teeth removal?
While wisdom teeth removal is unlikely to change the overall face shape, there are some effects that patients may experience. These include:
- Swelling: Swelling is a common side effect of wisdom teeth removal. It can cause the cheeks to appear puffy and swollen, but this is temporary and will go away within a few days.
- Jaw stiffness: Patients may experience some stiffness in their jaw, which can make it difficult to open their mouth fully. This is also temporary and will improve over time.
- Pain: Pain is another common side effect of wisdom teeth removal. Patients may experience pain in the jaw, teeth, or gums. This can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the dentist or oral surgeon.
How can I minimize the effects of wisdom teeth removal?
While some side effects of wisdom teeth removal are unavoidable, there are some things patients can do to minimize their impact. These include:
- Follow post-operative instructions: Patients should follow all instructions provided by their dentist or oral surgeon to ensure proper healing.
- Apply ice: Applying ice to the cheeks can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Eat soft foods: Patients should avoid hard or crunchy foods for a few days after surgery and stick to soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
While many people worry that their face shape will change after wisdom teeth removal, the reality is that it is unlikely to happen. The wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth and do not have a significant impact on the overall shape of the face. However, patients may experience some side effects such as swelling, jaw stiffness, and pain. These can be managed with proper post-operative care and medication prescribed by the dentist or oral surgeon.