Will Removing My Wisdom Teeth Make My Jaw Smaller
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually appear in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause problems such as crowding, impaction, and infection, which may require their removal. Many people wonder if removing their wisdom teeth will make their jaw smaller, and this article aims to answer that question.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the mouth, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. They are located at the back of the mouth and are used for chewing and grinding food.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth can cause various problems, including:
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push the other teeth, causing them to become misaligned.
- Impaction: When the wisdom teeth do not emerge fully or correctly, they can become impacted and cause pain and infection.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
To prevent these problems, dentists may recommend removing the wisdom teeth.
Will Removing Wisdom Teeth Make Jaw Smaller?
Removing wisdom teeth will not make your jaw smaller. The size and shape of your jaw are determined by your genetics and growth patterns. Wisdom teeth are not necessary for the function or structure of the jaw.
However, removing the wisdom teeth can affect the appearance of the jawline. The swelling and bruising that can occur after the surgery may temporarily change the shape of the face. This effect is usually temporary and resolves within a few days or weeks.
What Are the Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with wisdom teeth removal. These risks include:
- Infection: The wound can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and fever.
- Bleeding: Bleeding can occur after the surgery, which can be managed with pressure and gauze.
- Dry socket: When the blood clot that forms after the surgery is dislodged, it can cause pain and delay the healing process.
- Nerve damage: The nerves that control sensation in the tongue, lips, and chin can be damaged during the surgery, leading to numbness or tingling.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the surgery and take steps to minimize them.
How is Wisdom Teeth Removal Performed?
The procedure for removing wisdom teeth depends on their position and the complexity of the case. In general, the steps are:
- Anesthesia: The dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia to numb the area and help you relax.
- Incision: The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and bone.
- Extraction: The tooth may need to be divided into sections and removed piece by piece, or it may be removed whole.
- Stitches: The dentist or oral surgeon will close the incision with dissolvable stitches or sutures that need to be removed after a few days.
The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and you can go home the same day. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours after the surgery.
How to Care for Your Mouth After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After the surgery, you will need to follow some instructions to promote healing and prevent complications:
- Bite on the gauze pad placed over the surgical area for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using a straw for the first 24 hours to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
- Apply ice packs to your cheeks for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids for the first few days, avoiding hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that can irritate the wound.
- Brush your teeth gently and avoid the surgical area for the first few days.
- Take pain relievers and antibiotics as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 72 hours after the surgery.
You will have a follow-up appointment to check the healing progress and remove the stitches if necessary. You can resume your normal activities after a few days, but avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least a week.
Conclusion
Removing wisdom teeth will not make your jaw smaller, but it can prevent various dental problems. The procedure is safe and straightforward, but it carries some risks that can be minimized with proper care and follow-up. If you are considering wisdom teeth removal, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss your options and expectations.