What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are often removed by oral surgeons or dentists. The procedure may be performed in a dental clinic or hospital setting.
During the procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around the wisdom teeth with local anesthesia, and then carefully remove the teeth. In some cases, the dentist may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the teeth.
After the procedure, you will be given instructions for aftercare, including how to manage any pain or swelling, and what foods to avoid while the extraction site heals.
If you are considering wisdom teeth removal, it is important to consult with an experienced oral surgeon or dentist, who can help you understand the procedure, assess any risks, and determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
When to extract wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are often extracted if they are causing problems or are at risk of causing problems in the future. Here are some common reasons for wisdom teeth extraction:
Crowding: Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in your mouth, pushing your other teeth out of place.
Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth that don't have enough room to come in properly can become impacted, which means they are trapped beneath your gums and can cause pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.
Tooth decay or gum disease: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, so they are more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
Cysts or tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors that can damage the surrounding teeth and bone.
Orthodontic treatment: In some cases, extracting wisdom teeth can help improve the success of orthodontic treatment.
Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend removing your wisdom teeth if they are causing problems or have the potential to cause problems in the future. They can evaluate your individual situation and help you make an informed decision about whether or not to have your wisdom teeth removed.
Why do you have wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are a type of tooth that typically develops in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Scientists believe that wisdom teeth were useful to our ancestors, who had larger jaws and ate a tougher, more fibrous diet.
Today, however, most people do not have enough room in their jaws for wisdom teeth to grow in properly. As a result, wisdom teeth often become impacted or cause other dental problems, and they are frequently removed. Some people do not develop wisdom teeth at all.
It's worth noting that the development of wisdom teeth is not necessary for good dental health. Many people live their entire lives without wisdom teeth, and they can maintain healthy teeth and gums with proper dental care and regular checkups.
