Wisdom Teeth

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the teeth in the back of your mouth. They typically start to grow between the ages of 14 and 24 and erupt from the gums last. Not only do everyone’s wisdom teeth erupt at a different time, some people may never grow all 4 wisdom teeth, or any at all!

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Most commonly, patients have their wisdom teeth removed because there is less room in their mouth for them or they are angled improperly, both of which cause hygiene challenges. Patients that have already had dental work done, including years of braces, will typically want to remove the wisdom teeth before they begin to shift their smile.

Wisdom Teeth Issues

Patients with impacted teeth or infections will want to have their wisdom teeth removed. Impacted teeth are caused when the teeth fail to erupt, and cause damage to surrounding teeth and bone tissue. Patients can even develop cysts in the area, and infections if the tooth only partially erupts. A tissue flap will then grow over the tooth and trap food or bacteria, which can lead to a number of issues including but not limited to pain, infection, and/or swelling.

Types of Wisdom Teeth Removal

The method your dentist chooses to remove your wisdom teeth will depend on many different factors, including if your teeth have grown in or not. Your dentist will discuss your options with you, and eventually suggest one of the below methods.

Simple Extraction

A simple extraction is done when the teeth are completely visible above the gum line, roots are in a straight orientation, and do not require any surgical management of the area such as sutures. The dentist will numb the area and use a special instrument to perform the extraction.

Surgical Extraction

When wisdom teeth are not grown in, have variations in root shape, soft tissue interferences, or are impacted, a surgical extraction is necessary. For these types of extractions, patients can elect different types of anesthesia from local to IV sedation, with nitrous oxide being in the middle.

Wisdom Teeth Recovery

After your wisdom teeth are removed, your doctor will give you specific instructions for your post-operative care. You should be sure to replace the gauze regularly for the first hour or two after the procedure, avoid strenuous activity, lying flat, drinking through a straw, smoking, and eating hard, sticky, or crunchy food. Patients can use over the counter medication to manage the pain, but the doctor will advise on how to manage any expected post operative discomfort. A follow up appointment will be scheduled to check in on your recovery.

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Growing In

It’s possible for wisdom teeth to erupt without issue. However, patients can experience symptoms that signal the start of eruption.

• Pain
• Pressure
• Dull throbbing in the gums near throat or jaw bone
• Gum pain
• Shifting teeth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Sore throat