Wisdom teeth are the upper and lower third molars in the back of your mouth. They are the last teeth to emerge from the mouth. Wisdom teeth are so-called because they normally appear between the ages of 17 and 21—old enough to have gained some "wisdom."
Some people have wisdom teeth for the rest of their life. Others elect to have their wisdom teeth extracted, often before they have broken through the gums. Below, our dentist Denver Highlands answer the question. "Do I need my wisdom teeth extracted?"
If your jaw is too small to accommodate your wisdom teeth, they may become lodged (impacted) in your jaw and unable to break through your gums. Our dentist in Denver CO explains that impacted wisdom tooth can crowd adjacent teeth, causing painful, swelling, and infected gum flaps.
No, not everyone is born with all of their teeth. In fact, wisdom teeth are the most commonly missing teeth at birth.
Pain in the upper or lower jaw is frequently the first indication that your wisdom teeth create issues. Dr. O'Grady, the best dentist in Denver CO, may get pressure at the back of your mouth. In addition, the gum tissue around the developing wisdom teeth is frequently painful, swollen, and inflammatory. However, you may have no discomfort at all. Importantly, the lack of discomfort does not always indicate the absence of a problem. Many people do not exhibit any symptoms. As a result, you should have your wisdom teeth evaluated by your Denver dentist to see if extraction is necessary.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted and hindering proper dental care, it is frequently advisable to have them extracted.
Teeth that emerge in an upright and functioning posture frequently do not need to be extracted if they cause no discomfort and are not linked with decay or gum disease.
However, because wisdom teeth are so far back in the mouth and difficult to clean, even appropriately positioned wisdom teeth can develop issues over time. So, if you want to maintain your wisdom teeth, be sure you clean and floss them well and visit your dentist on a regular basis.
People frequently have impacted wisdom teeth. These teeth are buried in the soft tissue or jaw bone, either partially or entirely, and are more prone to illness and other disorders. You can't clean impacted wisdom teeth effectively, which allows them to deteriorate and cause gum disease. Cysts or tumors can also form around impacted teeth, however, this is less common.
Dentists often analyze impacted teeth on a case-by-case basis to determine if they should be extracted. If a tooth is ultimately impacted in bone and X-rays reveal that eruption is improbable, your dentist will almost always prescribe extraction to avoid future issues.
After an extraction, mild to moderate discomfort is usual and anticipated, but a few additional problems are possible. Here's an overview of what to expect and how your doctor will most likely manage each possibility:
All extractions are likely to cause some discomfort and edema. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories combined with a low dose of narcotic medicines can help manage most pain in most circumstances. To reduce swelling, use ice during the first 24 hours.
Though uncommon, this is one of the most prevalent real complications after surgery. Our friend Dr. Beth Herko, dentist in New Providence NJ, explains that it usually happens four to seven days following a tooth extraction when the blood clot required for healing dissolves too quickly. Depending on the degree of the discomfort, your dentist will most likely treat it with an antiseptic solution or a specialist bandage.
Bacterial infections after surgery are uncommon, occurring in less than 6% of all cases. To avoid infection concerns, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics prior to surgery. Antiseptic mouth rinses or extra antibiotic regimens are occasionally required after surgery.
In the end, you have very little control over your wisdom teeth. Unfortunately, there aren't many individuals who can or should do other than practice good dental hygiene and visit the dentist on a regular basis.
When it comes to wisdom tooth extractions in Denver, not everyone has them nor do they always have to get them removed. Everyone is different and depending on the person and their dental needs is the determination for making a plan for whats next.
Were here for you to see what is the best plan for you. Please contact our team today to schedule an Exam and X-Ray in Denver CO.
