Wisdom Teeth Removal: Your Complete Handbook for Signs, Causes, Recovery, and More!
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last remaining permanent teeth to grow at the back on both sides of your mouth, bottom and top. They can often grow sideways, crooked, or otherwise misaligned. Its growth can cause overcrowding and discomfort; furthermore, it can lead to serious dental problems. In such cases, dental professionals in Mount Waverley recommend different types of wisdom tooth extraction options before they have completely erupted.
So, let’s understand step-by-step what wisdom teeth are and what the symptoms, causes, and treatments are for impacted wisdom teeth removal.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth in Detail: What are They?
Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the ultimate late arrival to the tooth party, located at the back of your mouth, unlike most front teeth that usually emerge during early childhood. Most young adults get their third molars between the ages of 18 and 25. While the emergence differs from one person to another, not all wisdom teeth erupt properly; third molars that are half-buried or not visible can cause severe pain, irritation, and infection within the gums. This is when they are known as “impacted wisdom teeth”. Although you cannot prevent an impaction, keeping routine dental appointments for cleanings and checkups enables your dental professional to monitor the emergence of your wisdom teeth.
Well, not all wisdom teeth will cause pain or discomfort, but in some cases, it is possible, and that begins with symptoms. Moreover, in delayed cases, they force a need for surgical wisdom teeth removal in Mount Waverley. Therefore, being aware of the signs is one crucial step you cannot skip.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
It is common to experience some discomfort and pain when your wisdom teeth start to erupt. However, if the problems persist, they should not be ignored. Below, we have listed a few signs that indicate the need for immediate wisdom teeth extraction.
- Difficulty Opening and Closing the Mouth
The pain at the tooth site is usually mild and sometimes unbearable at its worst. It even becomes difficult to open and close your mouth.
- Pain around the jaws and ears
Wisdom tooth growth often puts pressure on the nerves in a way that causes persistent pain around the jaw, ears, and eyes. In case the pain continues for a long time, consider consulting a professional to deal with the wisdom tooth extraction emergency.
- Gum bleeding
Any kind of abnormal bleeding, redness, or swelling in the gum after the growth of a wisdom tooth is a sign that it needs to be removed.
- Bad Taste in the Mouth
If, despite regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, you experience a bad taste in your mouth, it may be a sign you need to go for wisdom teeth extraction.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain?
There are several reasons behind the pain caused by the growth of wisdom teeth, and a few are listed below:
- Pericoronitis
When wisdom teeth are half-buried or erupt only partially, bacteria may grow inside the gum and cause swelling, infection, stiffness, and severe pain. This condition is known as pericoronitis.
- Cavities
Particularly, impacted wisdom teeth and adjacent second molars are at higher risk of cavities. If they go unaddressed, the condition will eventually cause pain and tooth sensitivity, spreading infection through the tooth.
- Impaction
Wisdom teeth often have less room for growth, which results in the pressing of other teeth. This is called impaction.
- Tumours or cysts
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to tumours or cysts, which can later damage other healthy teeth and the jawbone if left untreated.
What Are the Treatment Options for Wisdom Tooth Infections?
Minor infections that are caused by wisdom teeth can be treated:
- By having the infected area examined and cleaned by a dental professional
- By improving routine dental hygiene in the area
- By using an antiseptic mouthwash
- And sometimes, by taking antibiotics (recommended by the specialist)
However, it is possible to get re-infected until the impacted teeth are removed. Therefore, it might be wise to look for wisdom teeth removal in Mount Waverley.
Why Is Earlier Wisdom Tooth Extraction or Removal Better Than Later?
Wisdom teeth don’t usually cause pain or problems; however, they can gradually damage the surrounding teeth. To prevent serious damage and dental complications, it is best to get rid of the wisdom tooth by consulting a professional. Additionally, the chance of infection caused by wisdom tooth removal at an early age is also low.
Recovery Tips to Be Followed After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Follow these tips for better recovery after wisdom teeth extraction:
- Avoid alcohol consumption and mouthwash with alcohol content.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth.
- Consult your dentist in cases of excessive bleeding or discomfort.
In Need of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Mount Waverley?
If you are noticing signs that a wisdom tooth extraction might be a necessity, allow our team of experts at Syndal Dentistry in Mount Waverley to guide you through the process. We strive to offer quality, modern dental care to all our patients and deal with wisdom teeth removal emergencies in the best way possible. Contact us now to schedule your appointment and get your oral health on the right path.