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Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late or early twenties. Since wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, there is often little room left in your mouth to support the development. Sometimes these teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when healthy and properly aligned, but more often, they are misaligned and require removal. When misaligned, your wisdom teeth can present potential problems. When there is not enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to fully grow, they may erupt sideways, only partially, or become trapped (impacted). This can lead to pain, infection, and gum line and facial swelling. When any of these conditions arise, your dentist may determine that extraction of your wisdom teeth is needed. If impacted wisdom teeth are not extracted, it may lead to even more serious problems such as bone loss, jaw expansion, and tumors. How do I know if my Wisdom Teeth should be Removed? If your wisdom teeth are misaligned, they can position themselves horizontally, be angled toward or away from the second molars or be angled inward or outward. Ask your dentist about the positioning of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist in Arlington Heights may take an x-ray periodically to evaluate the presence and alignment of your wisdom teeth. It may be recommended that your wisdom teeth be extracted even before problems occur. This is often done to prevent a more painful or complicated extraction that might have to be done a few years later. Removal is easier in young people, when the wisdom teeth roots are not fully developed and the bone is less dense. In older people, recovery and healing time tends to be longer. If impacted wisdom teeth are not extracted, the following may occur: • Teeth shifting
• Bone loss and jaw expansion
• Congestion
• Cysts and tumors
• Gum tissue irritation
• Periodontal pockets and, cavities
• Changes in orthodontia and dentures Removal of Your Wisdom Teeth The removal of wisdom teeth is a fairly common oral surgery. When removal occurs before eruption of the wisdom teeth, surgery is more complicated. A wisdom tooth that is fully erupted through the gum can be extracted as easily as any other tooth. However, a wisdom tooth that is underneath the gums and embedded in the jawbone will require an incision into the gums and then removal of the portion of bone that lies over the tooth. An experienced dentist can provide safe and gentle extraction of wisdom teeth for a quick and healthy recovery. After having your wisdom teeth removed, the speed of your recovery depends on the degree of difficulty of your extraction. It can take approximately five to seven days, with the gum area being fully healed in approximately three to four weeks. If you start to feel pain in the back of your mouth where your wisdom teeth are, it is important to notify your dentist. With proper consultation your dentist will be able to assess your wisdom teeth and decide whether or not you need them removed.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Meena Barsoum of Impressive Smiles, an experienced Arlington Heights dentist. Specializing in most phases of dentistry, including teeth whitening, implants and veneers in Arlington Heights, Dr. Barsoum is highly qualified to handle the dental needs for patients of every age.
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