Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars we get, usually between the ages 14 and 24, and are a topic of discussion, because for many of us, they grow into our mouths with complications. They're often misaligned, become impacted, and can end up causing one, or more dental conditions resulting in their surgical removal.
Depending on the person the teeth may or may not have to be removed, but wisdom teeth, even when healthy, increase the risk of chronic oral infectious disease, periodontitis, and tooth decay. That's why regular evaluation, and potential extraction of wisdom teeth is so important as we enter adulthood. It also reduces the chance of dental complications later in life.
Typically, you work with your family dentist, and oral and maxillofacial surgeon to help you decide to keep or extract the molars. If you decide to keep your wisdom teeth, you'll be encouraged to maintain regularly-scheduled checkups, and X-rays to watch for changes. But if you want them removed, your dentist, and/or oral surgeon should have the expertise to guide you through the process.
The extraction procedure also sounds worse than it actually is. You can have a local anesthetic, or an intravenous anesthesia, for the procedure. Without going into too much detail your surgein will essentially open your gums, remove any bone covering the teeth, section them, and extract them.
Afterwards it's normal to have some swelling, discomfort, and restricted jaw function. If you are given a prescription, fill it, and take as prescribed. It's also important to maintain your everyday oral hygiene to help prevent infections in wisdom tooth areas. In most cases, recovery after wisdom tooth removal lasts just a few days.
For more information on Wisdom Teeth, and extractions, call the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon's BayCare Clinic at 920-347-0400 or visit baycare.net
