Impacted wisdom teeth are quite common and can lead to various oral health issues if not addressed properly. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about impacted wisdom tooth removal, from identifying the problem to understanding the procedure and recovery process.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. They are the last set of teeth to develop and often cause complications due to lack of space in the mouth. Consequently, they may emerge at an unusual angle or become partially or fully trapped in the gums or jawbone, a condition known as impaction.
There are four types of impacted wisdom teeth, classified based on the tooth’s position:
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various oral health problems, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Additionally, they may cause headaches due to radiating pain in your jaw, face, and head. If you experience such discomfort, it’s crucial to consult with a dental professional for an accurate diagnosis.
At Picasso Dental Clinic, our team of highly-experienced dental professionals can help identify and treat impacted wisdom teeth effectively.
Your dentist may recommend impacted wisdom tooth removal if your wisdom teeth are causing severe discomfort or if there’s a high risk of complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, pericoronitis, cellulitis, abscess, or cysts. The decision to remove wisdom teeth also depends on their position and the risk of them affecting other teeth.
The removal of wisdom teeth can be performed either by a dentist or a specialist surgeon. The professional may take an X-ray of your mouth to assess the condition and positioning of your wisdom teeth before proceeding. The removal process involves administering local anaesthesia to numb the area, making an incision in the gum (if necessary), removing some bone surrounding the tooth, and finally extracting the tooth. In some complex cases, the tooth might need to be cut into smaller pieces for easy removal.
While wisdom tooth removal is a routine procedure, it carries certain risks, including infection, delayed healing, dry socket, and nerve damage. These complications are rare and largely avoidable with proper aftercare and by following the dentist’s instructions carefully.
Post wisdom tooth removal, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, both inside and outside your mouth. This is usually worse for the first three days but may take up to two weeks to completely subside. It’s crucial to avoid certain activities and food items for 24 hours after the procedure, such as rinsing your mouth with liquid, consuming alcohol or hot foods, smoking, and engaging in strenuous physical activities.
In conclusion, impacted wisdom tooth removal is a common yet critical dental procedure. It requires professional expertise and meticulous post-procedure care for a smooth recovery. At Picasso Dental Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care, from routine check-ups to complicated procedures like wisdom teeth removal. Since 2013, we have served over 57,000 overseas patients from 62 different nationalities. Our team of experienced dental professionals are here to guide you through every step of your dental journey, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.
For further information about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us. Remember, your oral health is an integral part of your overall well-being, and we are here to help you maintain it.